Easy hikes and walks in Bois D'Hez

Visit Abdij Villers-la-Ville Abdij van Villers – a ruin to reflect on 😉 The Abdij van Villers-la-Ville is an impressive Cistercian ruin from 1146 and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval abbey sites in Europe. Wander among the gigantic Gothic walls, columns, and roofless vaults where nature and centuries-old architecture are beautifully intertwined. The abbey reached its peak in the 13th century, but after centuries of wars and changes, monastic life came to an abrupt end in 1796. During the French Revolution, the monks were expelled and the abbey was sold. Buildings were dismantled stone by stone, after which wind, rain, and encroaching nature slowly transformed the complex into an impressive ruin. In the 19th century, Villers became a beloved spot for artists and romantics. Victor Hugo (French writer, poet, playwright, and political thinker) was also fascinated by the ruins and visited the abbey several times. Thanks to restoration and heritage conservation, the site is beautifully preserved today. The combination of history, architecture, and nature makes a visit particularly atmospheric. Tip: allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the abbey at a leisurely pace. Admission – entrance fees: Adults: €10 Children (6 to 12 years): €4 Children (under 6 years): free Seniors (65+): €8 People with disabilities: free Dogs are welcome on a leash. An absolute must-see for anyone who loves history, mysterious ruins, and photogenic places! “Post tenebras, spero lucem” – “After darkness, I hope for light.” 🌑➡️☀️

The imposing Porte de Namur was built in 1725 under the leadership of the influential abbot Jacques de Lierneux. What makes this gate extra special is that it had a double function. The exterior (which you are now looking at) was erected in a rich, classic Renaissance style of brick and bluestone to impress high-ranking guests. On top of the gate passage is a robust stone tower room. Historically, this served as a guardhouse and prison cell for the abbey, which was allowed to exercise its own jurisdiction at the time. A monumental transition from the open nature to the ancient abbey domain!

On this sturdy calf-biter, you absolutely must not forget to stop and enjoy the beautiful landscape. While your legs are working hard, you have a beautiful view here over the rolling, green valley and the forest edges around Villers-la-Ville. A tough climb that is more than worth the effort!

Here you will get acquainted with the habitat of the beavers who call this valley home. Look around carefully, as their presence is often betrayed by fresh gnaw marks on trees – the typical 'pencil trees' – and with a bit of luck, you might also discover traces of their hidden lodges. A fun and educational stop for nature lovers, where you can briefly step into the footsteps of these remarkable master builders. 🌿🦫 🥾 Tip: the area can be quite marshy. High hiking boots are certainly not an unnecessary luxury here!

This interesting information board stands right on the banks of the babbling river. From here, you will get to know the habitat of the beavers living in this valley in detail. You will learn, among other things, how to recognize their presence by gnawing marks ("pencil trees") and hidden lodges. A very fun and educational stop during your walk!

Route with a lot of variety.

Although the historic watermill itself is hidden behind the greenery, you are here at an important piece of monastic heritage. This mill on the Thyle was already built in 1293 after the Cistercian monks from the Abbey of Villers were granted permission to divert the stream for more water power. Through the centuries, the complex served as a grain mill, forge, oil press, and in the 19th century even as a marble and wood sawmill. During the French Revolution, the mill was nationalized and sold. Please note: the grounds are private property today.

Villers Abbey – a ruin to pause at 😉 The Abbey of Villers-la-Ville is an impressive Cistercian ruin from 1146 and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval abbey sites in Europe. Wander among the gigantic Gothic walls, columns, and roofless vaults where nature and centuries-old architecture are beautifully intertwined. The abbey experienced its greatest flourishing in the 13th century, but after centuries of wars and changes, monastic life came to an abrupt end in 1796. During the French Revolution, the monks were expelled and the abbey was sold. Buildings were dismantled stone by stone, after which wind, rain, and encroaching nature slowly formed the complex into an impressive ruin. In the 19th century, Villers grew into a beloved spot for artists and romantics. Victor Hugo (French writer, poet, playwright, and political thinker) was also fascinated by the ruins and visited the abbey several times. Thanks to restoration and heritage conservation, the site is beautifully preserved today. The combination of history, architecture, and nature makes a visit particularly atmospheric. Tip: allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to discover the abbey at a leisurely pace. Admission – entrance fees: Adults: €10 Children (6 to 12 years): €4 Children (under 6 years): free Seniors (65+): €8 People with disabilities: free Dogs are welcome on a leash. An absolute recommendation for those who love history, mysterious ruins, and photogenic places!