Living in Brussels, I am always on the lookout for new and exciting day trips to take from the city. Recently, I embarked on a journey by train to the picturesque town of Dinant, located in the beautiful Belgian Ardennes region. Known for its stunning architecture, serene river views, and rich history, Dinant has long been on my list of must-visit destinations.
Normally, I would have taken the train as the journey from Brussels to Dinant only takes about an hour and a half, making it the perfect day trip option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a more tranquil experience. However, since I also wanted to visit some locations outside Dinant I decided to hire a car from Brussel Airport.
As I drove carefully towards Dinant, I really enjoyed the beautiful scenery of the Belgian countryside. The lush green fields, quaint villages, and rolling hills passing by provided a welcome change of pace from the bustling streets of Brussels. I could feel my stress melting away with each passing kilometre.
Arriving in Dinant, I was immediately struck by the town’s charm and beauty. Located on the banks of the River Meuse, Dinant is known for its distinctive Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame. The unique onion-shaped dome of the church stood out despite the cloudy sky, making for a postcard-perfect sight.
I began my exploration of Dinant by taking a leisurely stroll along the river promenade. The peaceful sound of the water flowing gently by, the colorful boats bobbing in the marina, and the charming cafes lining the waterfront all added to the town’s enchanting atmosphere. I could feel the stress of city life slipping away as I immersed myself in the tranquility of Dinant.
Next, I made my way to the iconic Citadel of Dinant, perched on a rocky cliff high above the town. To reach the citadel, I took the scenic cable car ride, which offered breathtaking views of the River Meuse and the surrounding countryside. As I ascended to the top of the cliff, I felt a sense of awe at the sheer beauty of the landscape spread out before me.
Exploring the citadel, I learned about Dinant’s rich history as a strategic military stronghold and witnessed stunning views of the town below. The medieval walls, ancient cannons, and well-preserved artifacts provided a fascinating glimpse into the town’s past. I marveled at the ingenuity of the architects who built such a formidable fortress in such a challenging location.
At this point I was pretty hungry so I decided to stop for a delicious lunch at the nearby restaurant, where I sampled local specialties such as Belgian waffles and frites. After that, I made my way to the vibrant town centre, where I explored the winding streets lined with charming shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The colourful houses, cobblestone streets, and picturesque squares all added to the town’s old-world charm.
My next aim was to visit a few castles within driving distance of Dinant as it is surrounded not only by picturesque landscapes but also by several notable castles. The first one I wanted to visit was, the Castle of Walzin, a stunning medieval fortress perched on a cliff overlooking the Meuse River. While the castle is privately owned and not always open to the public, its dramatic position and picturesque setting make it a popular subject for photography.
My next destination was a very different type of castle! As I drove toward Vêves Castle, the winding roads captivated me, each turn revealing the enchanting landscape but the memories of Walzin still lingered in my mind, however, with its dramatic cliffs and serene river. As I got near to Vêves Castle, I felt excitement building; Vêves promised a different charm, one of fairy-tale towers and lush greenery, inviting me to explore its rich history.
After exploring Vêves Castle, the drive to the Castle of Freÿr was enchanting. The winding roads offered picturesque views, with lush greenery framing our path. As I arrived, Freÿr’s majestic façade emerged, a stunning contrast against the serene Meuse River. The air was filled with history, inviting me to explore its treasures.
Despite it being a rather cloudy and gloomy day, I felt grateful for the opportunity to experience such a beautiful and enchanting town. Dinant had charmed me with its stunning architecture, serene river views, and rich history, leaving me with a sense of wonder and a desire to return again soon. The day trip had been the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Brussels, offering a peaceful respite in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes. I highly recommend a visit to Dinant to anyone looking for a day trip that combines history, culture, and natural beauty in a picture-perfect setting.
