Good tips for staying in the Bastogne region

Deep in Belgium, in the very heart of the Ardennes forest, lies Bastogne, surrounded by nature still in its wild state and where history lingers in the woods where some of the toughest battles of World War II took place.

Where to start?

Considering a stay in Bastogne means first and foremost facing a choice: how to approach the city? Indeed, it is difficult to explore all the facets of the city and its surroundings in a short stay. It is better to focus all your attention on one aspect of the city to explore it as thoroughly as possible.

The historical side

For anyone with even a basic knowledge of history, the name Bastogne should sound familiar. Bastogne was the nerve center of the Battle of the Bulge, a region that was the scene of violent battles during World War II. The city itself was besieged for months, and the many existing museums testify to the courage of its defenders who refused to surrender.

The wild nature

Located deep in Belgium, the city is surrounded by what is certainly one of the last strongholds of wild nature in Belgium: the Ardennes forest. Most Belgian schoolchildren have experienced the “class trip” to “the Fens” where they walk on wooden “boardwalks” over countless marshes. A wonderful and unique experience for all.

An exceptional cycling route

The “Doyenne”, Liège-Bastogne-Liège, is the oldest cycling competition in the world.

Created in 1892, this prestigious race with its route through the Ardennes massif is feared by all, including the best. In Bastogne, it is possible to rent cars to follow the route taken each year by hundreds of cyclists.

The local folklore

The traditional “Walnut Fair” dates back to the “servants’ fair” of the Middle Ages, during which servants bought walnuts to distribute to young girls. Centuries later, American General McAuliffe’s response “Nuts” to the Germans demanding his surrender coincided with this same period of the walnut fair. Since then, folklore and history have mixed, and today floats pass through the streets throwing walnuts into the crowd.