Things To Do
in Aywaille
Aywaille is a picturesque town in Belgium’s Ardennes, perched along the Ourthe River and surrounded by forested hills. It serves as a gateway to scenic gorges, caves, and easy hiking in the Liège province. The town combines outdoor adventure with a relaxed rural vibe and convenient access to Liège’s cultural offerings.
Highlights include the Remouchamps Caves, riverside strolls, and hearty Ardennes hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Aywaille, admiring the charming architecture that reflects the town's rich history. Visit the local market where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal products, engaging with friendly vendors. As the sun rises higher, enjoy a warm coffee at a quaint café while soaking in the atmosphere.
In the afternoon, delve into the history of Aywaille by visiting the Museum of the History of the Province of Liège, where you can discover fascinating exhibits. Take some time to explore the lush Parc de l'Intendant, a perfect spot for a leisurely walk or picnic. As the day progresses, visit the stunning Église Saint-Lambert, taking in its beautiful stained glass and intricate architecture.
As evening approaches, savor a delightful dinner at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in traditional Belgian cuisine and sample local beers. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the River Ourthe, enjoying the serene ambiance as the sun sets. Conclude your evening with a cozy drink at a nearby pub, mingling with locals and reflecting on your day.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, fueling up for a day of exploring the natural beauty surrounding Aywaille. Head to the Ourthe Valley, where you can embark on a scenic hike along well-marked trails that showcase stunning landscapes and diverse flora. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as you walk, feeling the refreshing breeze against your skin.
After your morning hike, enjoy a packed lunch in the heart of nature, surrounded by the tranquility of the valley. Spend the afternoon canoeing on the Ourthe River, experiencing the thrill of paddling through gentle rapids while taking in the breathtaking views. If time permits, visit the nearby village of Comblain-au-Pont, famous for its impressive cliffs and rock formations.
Return to Aywaille for an early evening meal at a riverside restaurant, where you can relish fresh fish dishes and local specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the quiet streets, soaking in the atmosphere as the town begins to wind down. Find a cozy spot to sit and watch the stars come out, reflecting on the beauty of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-50 |
| 🏨One-night hotel stay (mid-range) | $80-150 |
| 🧭Outdoor equipment rental | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural scenery and outdoor opportunities
- Compact town with easy access to Liège and Ardennes attractions
- Rich local cuisine and beer culture
- Relaxed, safe, family-friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife within Aywaille itself
- Some services closed on Sundays or evenings
- Seasonal tourism can be weather-dependent
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
- "Je voudrais..." - I would like...
- "Pouvez-vous m'aider?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Aywaille
Visit one of these nice places.
Picturesque river views with weirs and stone bridges; best during golden hour when the light is soft on the water.
Rock faces and expansive valley views offering dramatic landscapes, especially in the early morning.
Paths leading to the nearby cave entrance with interesting rock textures and subtle lighting contrasts.
Historic bridge over the Ourthe with reflections on calm mornings and soft evening light.
Food in Aywaille
Aywaille Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Hearty Ardennes beef stew with root vegetables, slowly braised in local beer for deep, comforting flavors.
Must-Try!
Chicken simmered in Ardenne beer with mushrooms and onions, a staple of rural Belgian taverns.
Soft, pungent cheese from the Liège region, often enjoyed with bread or as part of a cheese plate.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market stalls offering cheeses, sausages, bread, produce, and baked goods—great for sampling regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greeting of bonjour or bonsoir in French; say merci for thanks and s'il vous plaît for please.
Be courteous in queues and stores; keep voices moderate in public spaces and on public transit.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; waitstaff appreciate acknowledgement of good service.
Safety
Tipping in Aywaille
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included in larger restaurants; if not, a tip of 5-10% for good service is common in Belgium.
Cash and card are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with plenty of outdoor activity; expect some showers; cave tours and riverside spots are popular; book ahead on weekends.
Golden foliage and cooler temperatures make for spectacular hikes; fewer crowds and thriving local markets.
Cold days with possible frost; caves are excellent indoor experiences; cafés provide a cozy retreat after short daylight hours.
Milder temperatures and blooming countryside; ideal for long hikes and photography along the river.
Aywaille at Night
Hiking in Aywaille
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic hike along the Ourthe with gentle elevation and opportunities for picnics.
Forest traverse with varying terrain and viewpoints over the valley.
Shaded paths leading toward the caves, with interesting rock formations and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Aywaille by plane.
Located in Bierset, ~30-40 minutes by car from Aywaille; serves domestic and European flights.
Main international gateway; ~1.5-2 hours by rail or car from Aywaille.
Secondary option; ~2 hours by car or rail from Aywaille.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families and older residents, with strong ties to agriculture, crafts, and tourism.
Seasonal visitors drawn to caves, riverside scenery, and Ardennes activities.
A community with a calm pace, catering to outdoor-loving families and retirees seeking nature and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extensive forested trails in the Ardennes surrounding Aywaille.
Road cycling and mountain biking on scenic lanes.
Paddling on the Ourthe with tranquil to moderately flowing sections.
Explore limestone caverns including Remouchamps and nearby systems.
Nearby limestone crags suitable for varied skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aywaille.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in local eateries; look for vegetable stews, salads, and cheese plates; many restaurants can adapt dishes on request.