> Follow the signs with the green crosses
After a tough climb along the stairs you suddenly end up in the beautiful fields of the plateau. You walk through the picturesque hamlet of Palenge, with some beautiful limestone buildings and farms. In Palenge there is also a small church (Notre Dame de la Visitation) in limestone and slate, in front of which is a small cave in honor of Notre Dame de Lourdes.
Then the walk continues through the Bois de Viné, a very beautiful and quiet forest with unpaved roads. Deer and wild boar also find this a very nice spot, so if you are quiet you might be lucky to encounter some.
Once out of the woods you come to the village of Septon. If you want a total cultural change, you can stop at the Chateau de Petite Somme. In this castle you will find Radadesh, a community of the Hare Krishna. There are guided tours for enthusiasts. More info regarding times and tickets can be found on their website.
Back to the Ardennes 🙂 There is a nice bit over the plateau until you arrive at Villa Louise again.
The walk is 9.7 kilometers long and there are quite a few height differences and unpaved parts. Feel free to take the map in Villa Louise or Villa des Roches with you or just follow the green crosses.
Starting point from Villa Louise: walk down the Rue de la Haie Himbe and at the crossroads at the bridge you will see the arrow with the green cross on the left, which will lead you up the stairs.
Starting point from Villa des Roches: walk towards the center of Durbuy until the bridge. At the bridge (do not cross the Ourthe!) you will see the arrows with the green cross on the right and the stairs that you have to take up.
