Things To Do
in La Calamine
La Calamine (Kelmis) sits in the Belgian Liège Province right on the German border, blending Belgian and Germanic influences. The town's history is closely tied to zinc mining, which shaped its industrial heritage and landscape. Its compact center is easy to explore on foot, with border-crossing vibes and convenient access to the Ardennes and Eifel regions.
Visitors can enjoy cross-border cuisine, historic sites, and scenic nature along nearby trails and parks.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and Belgian coffee. Afterward, stroll through the quaint streets of La Calamine, admiring the charming architecture and historic buildings that date back to the 18th century. Don't miss the chance to visit the Church of Saint John the Baptist, where you can appreciate the intricate details of its gothic design.
In the afternoon, explore the La Calamine Museum, which showcases the rich history of the region and its mineral resources. Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the local mining heritage that shaped this town. As the sun begins to set, take a walk in the nearby Parc de la Calamine, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and lush greenery.
Conclude your day at a traditional Belgian restaurant, indulging in local specialties such as stoofvlees and fries. Pair your meal with a glass of Belgian beer, enjoying the unique flavors crafted by local breweries. After dinner, take a leisurely evening walk, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of La Calamine under the starry sky.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to the High Fens, a stunning nature reserve just a short drive from La Calamine. Engage in a guided nature walk where you can observe unique flora and fauna, including rare bird species. The crisp morning air and serene landscapes will invigorate your senses as you immerse yourself in the beauty of the Belgian countryside.
After your walk, enjoy a packed lunch surrounded by nature, taking in the sounds of the tranquil environment. Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque trails of the reserve, perhaps opting for a bike ride along designated paths that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Capture stunning photographs of the rolling hills and vast wetlands, making memories to last a lifetime.
Return to La Calamine in the evening and unwind at a cozy pub, enjoying a warm atmosphere and friendly locals. Treat yourself to some traditional Belgian snacks while engaging in conversation with the townspeople about their way of life. As the night progresses, enjoy live music or a quiz night that many local pubs host, providing a fun and interactive experience.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🧇Belgian waffles/snacks | $5-8 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cross-border culture and history
- Compact, walkable town with easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller number of international dining options
- "Guten Tag" - Good day
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don’t understand
- "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in La Calamine
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic markers along the frontier offer a sense of cross-border history and photo opportunities of signage and fencing.
A red-brick church with traditional houses around a market square—great for architecture and street photography.
The long rail-turned-bike path through woods and fields provides wide-angle landscape shots and a sense of movement.
A small overlook offering panoramic views across valleys and distant towns, ideal for sunset shots.
Food in La Calamine
La Calamine Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Slow-cooked meatballs in a rich onion gravy, a Liège-inspired comfort dish common in the region.
Must-Try!
Fragrant mussels served with classic Belgian fries, a staple in Belgian dining.
Pan-fried German-style meat patties paired with potato salad, reflecting cross-border tastes.
Crisp, warm waffles with toppings like cream, fruit, or chocolate—great for a post-sightseeing treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, cheese, bread, and regional snacks when held; a great place to taste local specialties.
Golden Belgian fries with a choice of sauces, commonly found near town centers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In German-speaking influence areas, use formal address (Sie) until invited to switch to informal; in French contexts, use vous.
Greet politely in both languages; keep voices moderate in public spaces and respect quiet neighborhood norms.
Safety
Tipping in La Calamine
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common; check if a service charge is included.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional showers; great for markets, cycling, and riverside walks. Bring sun protection and light layers.
Colorful foliage and cooler temps; ideal for hiking and photography with softer light. Pack layers and a light rain jacket.
Cold with possible snow; shorter daylight hours. Focus on indoor culture spots and cozy cafés; wear sturdy footwear.
Milder weather with blooming landscapes; perfect for outdoor exploration and markets returning after winter.
La Calamine at Night
Hiking in La Calamine
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive moorland trails with boardwalks, unique flora, and panoramic viewpoints.
A cross-border rail-trail along an old railway line; ideal for long, scenic bike rides and walks.
Gentle to moderate forest hikes offering quiet landscapes and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach La Calamine by plane.
Liege Airport is about a 1.5-hour drive from La Calamine and offers several European connections.
Located in the Netherlands, about 60-90 minutes away by car, with regional and European flights.
A major international airport roughly 1.5-2 hours away by car, with broad connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A notable portion of residents have German linguistic and cultural ties; bilingual signage is common in some areas.
Residents from French- and Dutch-speaking communities, with families and expatriates in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched; local clubs and schools promote regular games.
Favored activity due to flat routes and cross-border trails like the Vennbahn.
Nearby Ardennes/Eifel trails attract hikers of all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting La Calamine.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be adapted; look for cheese or mushroom-based options, and ask for meat-free plates.