Abbaye de Villers
Start early to catch the morning light filtering through the towering, roofless ruins of this 12th-century Cistercian abbey. It is a peaceful, sprawling site where nature has slowly reclaimed the grand Gothic arches. Grab a quick espresso at the visitor centre before setting off down the valley.
Crupet
The drive into the Condroz region rewards you with rolling hills and quiet, winding lanes. Pull into Crupet, a tiny village built from local grey limestone, famous for its remarkable 13th-century moated medieval donjon. It is the perfect spot to stretch your legs and wander past the babbling streams.
Attablez-vous
Skip the tourist traps along the river and head straight to this stylish, understated bistro run by chef Charles Jeandrain. The cooking here is sharp, seasonal, and delightfully unpretentious, served in a sleek, light-filled dining room that feels miles away from the city bustle.
Château de Namur
Navigate the sweeping hairpin turns of the Route Merveilleuse up to the ancient Citadel of Namur. Park at the summit and grab a table on the terrace of the Château de Namur for a local craft beer, soaking in the panoramic views of the Meuse and Sambre rivers winding below before heading back to Brussels.
