Top 20 Natural Monuments around Malmedy
Best natural monuments around Malmedy are found in the Belgian Ardennes, a region characterized by diverse landscapes. This area features fens, forests, dramatic river valleys, and waterfalls. Malmedy's natural environment offers opportunities for outdoor activities and experiencing the local biodiversity. The region is part of the larger High Fens–Eifel Nature Park.
Best natural monuments around Malmedy
- The most popular natural monuments is Trôs Marets Valley, a gorge that offers an idyllic hiking experience accompanied by the sound of a…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Bayehon Waterfall
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Trôs Marets Valley
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
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Brackvenn Moor Lakes
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The palsen or pingos in the High Fens were formed around 10,000 to 11,000 years ago at …
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Reinhardstein Waterfall
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Coo Waterfall
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Popular around Malmedy
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Adventure tours, amusement park, kayaking or just marveling, there can be a lot going on here.
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The Coo waterfall is artificial. Starting from a simple waterfall that appeared in the 15th century, the monks of Stavelot Abbey dug the large waterfall, crossing a meander of the river, to protect the village of Petit-Coo. The fact remains that it is very impressive and at its height of 15 meters is the pride of Belgium.
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The earliest mention of the town of Coo, under the Latin form “collo”, dates back to 1307. A mill, whose existence is documented from 1483, was fed by the water of the Amel. It is very likely that the monks of Stavelot Abbey created a meander along the river to feed the mill and not to create a waterfall, but it is likely that the water sometimes had to overflow and spread over the nearby rocks … Source: http://tourismestavelot.be/de/wasserfall-von-coo
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It is said to be the highest waterfall in Belgium (*drop 60m from the castle).
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At this point there is a larger moor lake, which makes a nice photo motif, especially in fog. Above this, this moor lake is regularly visited by waterfowl such as wild ducks. If there are few people on the jetties and you approach the lake(s) quietly, there is a high probability that the animals will not be startled and scared away.
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The peat that can be found everywhere in the bog and fen areas is the result of a process of incomplete decomposition. Usually, dead plants are gradually decomposed by small animals (such as earthworms), bacteria and fungi. This process applies to well-drained soils. On impervious acidic soils that do not contain many bacteria and in humid climates, plants such as peat moss are only partially decomposed. Their superimposition forms the peat layer. This peat layer can be up to 7 m in certain places here in the Brackvenn. 1 mm layer of peat takes 1 year to form. With a peat layer of 7 m, for example, we are talking about a period of 7,000 years.
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Anyone who sees the beauty of the raised and low moors will never be able to let it go. The colors of the landscape, indeed the entire appearance of the High Fens, change dramatically every season. Even in winter - a breathtakingly beautiful landscape.
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What is often called a lake in the Fens is often e.g. Palsas. The palsen or pingos in the High Fens were formed around 10,000 to 11,000 years ago at the end of the last ice age. When the ground froze deep down during the cold winters of the Ice Age, the wet ground expanded and frost mounds developed. Over the years these mounds grew and the soil material that was on top slid down the sides of the mounds and over time formed a ring-shaped wall around the mound of frost. With the end of the ice age, the ice melted, the frost mound sagged and the wall was preserved. The water in the middle is called bog scour or bog eye. Source: euregio-im-bild.de/fotos/palsen-im-brackvenn-bei-m-tzenich.html
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most unique natural features to explore around Malmedy?
The region around Malmedy is rich in diverse natural features. You can explore the unique high-moorland plateau of the High Fens, which is the largest nature reserve in Belgium, offering vast landscapes of fens, meadows, and forests. Another notable feature is the Brackvenn Moor Lakes, where you can observe fascinating geological formations like palsas, formed at the end of the last ice age.
Are there any impressive waterfalls to visit near Malmedy?
Yes, Malmedy is known for its waterfalls. The Bayehon Waterfall, near Longfaye, is a roughly nine-meter-high cascade nestled in a deep, wooded gorge. Further afield, the Coo Waterfall is one of Belgium's highest, with a drop of 15 meters, offering an impressive flow of water.
What kind of hiking experiences can I find in the natural monuments around Malmedy?
The natural monuments offer varied hiking experiences. The Trôs Marets Valley provides an idyllic hike alongside a wild river in a canyon-like setting. For a different experience, the Hoëgne River valley features a trail with several small waterfalls and footbridges, known for its remarkable botanical interest. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Malmedy guide.
Are there family-friendly natural attractions in the Malmedy area?
Absolutely. The Bayehon Waterfall is easily accessible via the nearby Moulin de Bayehon watermill, making it appealing for families. The hike through the Trôs Marets Valley is also suitable for families, offering varied landscapes and the sound of a wild river.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Malmedy?
The natural monuments around Malmedy, especially the High Fens, transform with each season. While beautiful year-round, late spring to early autumn (May to October) offers pleasant weather for hiking and exploring. In winter, the High Fens can be enchanting under snow, providing opportunities for cross-country skiing, but sturdy, non-slip shoes are essential for trails like the Hoëgne River valley due to potentially slippery conditions.
What should I wear when hiking in the natural monuments, especially in wet conditions?
Sturdy, non-slip shoes are highly recommended for hiking in the natural monuments around Malmedy, particularly in wet weather. Trails can be covered with roots and become very slippery. In the High Fens, be prepared for colder temperatures, winds, and a wetter climate, so appropriate layered clothing is advisable.
Are there any rock formations or viewpoints worth seeing?
Yes, the region features impressive rock formations. The Rocher de Falize and Rocher de Warche are notable natural features near Malmedy, often included in hikes around Bellevaux, providing appealing natural scenery and viewpoints over the landscape.
Can I find trails suitable for mountain biking or gravel biking near these natural monuments?
Yes, the Malmedy region offers opportunities for cycling. You can find various routes for gravel biking, including loops through the Parc naturel des Hautes Fagnes-Eifel or trails with views of the High Fens. Explore options in the Gravel biking around Malmedy guide.
What makes the High Fens a unique natural monument?
The High Fens (Hautes Fagnes) is unique as Belgium's largest nature reserve, a vast high-moorland plateau spanning approximately 4,500 hectares. It features diverse landscapes of fens, meadows, and forests, with wooden boardwalks allowing access to its heather and marshes. It's considered one of the most unique natural reserves in the Benelux region and is home to Belgium's highest point, the Signal de Botrange.
Are there any specific tips for visiting the Bayehon Waterfall?
When visiting the Bayehon Waterfall, sturdy shoes and sure-footedness are necessary due to root-covered paths that can be slippery. It's easily accessible via the nearby Moulin de Bayehon watermill, which offers parking and friendly service, making it a convenient stop for families.
What kind of biodiversity can I expect to see in the natural monuments?
The natural monuments around Malmedy are known for their rich biodiversity. The High Fens, for instance, is a unique ecosystem. The Hoëgne River valley is particularly noted for its remarkable botanical interest, including various liverworts, mosses, ferns, and a rich floral diversity.
Are there any easy walking routes among the natural monuments?
Yes, there are easier options available. The hike through the Trôs Marets Valley, while offering a wild river experience, is suitable for various fitness levels. Additionally, some sections of the High Fens have boardwalks that provide accessible paths for easier exploration. You can find easy routes in the Hiking around Malmedy guide, such as the 'Wild gorge of the Trôs-Marets' tour.
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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Malmedy:
