The best way to experience snow in Belgium is to hike. High fens are the place where snow touches first. No matter what time of the year, the High Fens are an excellent destination for short and long walks through a distinct landscape. The outstanding landscape changes with the seasons. Long winter walks are just as pleasurable as short summer hikes. So hikers grab your rock shags, wear your super hiking shoes and get set go…
Snow is calling you.
Address :High Fens, 4960 Malmedy
Scroll to stroll in the high fens:
Everything you need to know about the High Fens:
The moor geography of the High Fens has been a protected province since 1957. That indicates that this plateau of 5,000 hectares in size, is not only the ancient conservation area in Wallonia but also assumably the most favourable known and recognized nature reserve in Belgium and the jewel of the German-Belgian High Fens – Eifel nature park. From the prehistoric era around 10,000 years before, at the end of the final Ice Age, high moors were shaped on this barren surface that clenches water so adequately. These quays yet characterise parts of the enormous plateau of the Fens today. The High Fens have an average of 43 days of snow per year. Most feasibly you’ll find the largest amount of snow. With all the tales that encircle it, captivate the young and old to the High Fens. There’s a lot more to be discovered!
Hiking on the High Fens from Signal de Botrange:
The Signal of Botrange is the highest point of Belgium at a height of 694 meters. A wooden tower was erected here in 1804 by the French Colonel Franchot. A prominent walk of 8.5 km is one of the most outstanding voyages from Signal de Botrange. Whilst the summit of Botrange can be entered by the N676, a more rewarding traverse can be made by taking the GR 56 / GR573 trail from Eupen. The track nuzzles the Hill River. It heads north into the fens and around to Baraque Michel, then takes forestry tracks and woodland ways through the forest until a fording of the river over to the western bank. Here the route intersects the marshy grasslands of Grand Bongard and Petit Bongard. Keep an eye out for the red and white path markings. Different sections of boardwalk confirm that this truly is the trail, and when at last the boardwalk becomes more lasting you will be excited that the marsh trotting is over. Immediately after there is a bridge over the Hill River, with a picnic table on the opposite bank. If it’s open you can take a rest or get something to eat. This is a sweet family-friendly walk of 8 km you can always track down.
Hiking in the High Fens from Mont Rigi:
3.3 Km Circular Walk
Mount Rigi is one of the target sites for ski enthusiasts in the High Fens. In winter, when the snow has fallen, cross-country skiers, hikers and sleigh riders flock to this site soaked in history. The cross-country skiing trails begin right on site. The starting point is the car park and bus stop at Mont Rigi. It’s a 3.3-kilometre circular trail that offers promising panoramic views. A number of information boards demonstrate the natural history of the High Fens. When this is reached, small brooks appear, huddling together into streams that converge and form rivers. Some of these are magnets for hikers and photographers.
You may take an hour and a half or more to complete this trail if you rest or enjoy the beautiful views peacefully.
Mont Rigi 18 Km Walk
This one is based on the one above but extends it by a couple of kilometres. Again, the starting point is the car park and bus stop at Mont Rigi. This walk covers part of the trail around La Fagne de la Poleûr but again diverts south-east into different provinces. Do the hike counterclockwise for the best views. You’ll perhaps need three hours to do this, particularly if you have children, or if you continually stop, rest, and enjoy the sights. On your way up you will get to see the most spectacular landscapes and it extends a lot of diversity! You’ll wander through pine forests and the wooden deck paths lead you through the bogs and fens. If you wish to have a long time here take some snacks or even some lunch, to top up your energy levels. A warm drink or soup in a thermos flask is a good idea too. This walk can be the best hike for hiking lovers.