Tucked away in the charming countryside of Belgium, there are medieval villages that offer a glimpse into the past yet remain largely undiscovered. These hidden gems, with their cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and timeless beauty, are perfect for travelers looking for a quieter, more authentic experience. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply in search of tranquility, these underrated villages are waiting to be explored.
Chimay
Known for its famous abbey and Trappist beer, Chimay offers more than just a brewery tour. The village is steeped in history, with the impressive Chimay Castle overlooking the landscape. Visitors can wander through its old streets, lined with medieval buildings, and visit the Notre-Dame-de-Scourmont Abbey. The surrounding forested area makes it ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
Thuin
Thuin is a charming village perched on a hill with an impressive UNESCO-listed belfry. Its medieval charm is reflected in its hanging gardens, narrow streets, and stone houses. The Sambre River adds to its picturesque beauty, while the remains of its old city walls hint at its strategic importance in medieval times.
Durbuy
Often claimed to be the smallest city in the world, Durbuy retains a medieval atmosphere with its stone houses, winding cobblestone streets, and enchanting river views. It’s a great place for exploring historical sites, including the ancient Château de Durbuy, as well as the surrounding Ardennes forest for outdoor activities.
Crupet
Nestled in a valley, Crupet feels like stepping back in time. Its centerpiece is a well-preserved medieval castle with a moat, while the village itself is filled with stone cottages and a peaceful rural atmosphere. Visitors are drawn to its caves and Grotto of Saint Anthony of Padua, making it an interesting blend of history and legend.
Limbourg
Perched on a hill overlooking the Vesdre Valley, Limbourg is known for its medieval charm and well-preserved 17th-century houses. Its cobbled Grand Place and old fortifications add to its historic allure. As one of the least-visited medieval towns, it offers a quiet escape from the more tourist-heavy areas.
Alden Biesen
This quaint village is dominated by the impressive Alden Biesen Castle, one of the largest in Belgium. The castle’s moats, gardens, and surrounding parkland make it an idyllic spot for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike. The village itself retains a peaceful atmosphere, with narrow lanes and old-world charm.
Torgny
Torgny stands out for its Mediterranean vibe, making it a unique medieval village in Belgium. With its stone buildings, vineyards, and sun-kissed hills, it feels more like the South of France than Belgium. Its 18th-century architecture and rural setting make it a perfect destination for those seeking a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Sohier
A hidden gem in the Walloon region, Sohier is classified as one of the most beautiful villages in Wallonia. Its medieval heritage is evident in the old farmhouses, the church of Saint-Lambert, and the village’s well-preserved layout. The surrounding countryside is perfect for leisurely walks and exploring nature.
Lier
Lier is a small but captivating medieval town featuring a mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. The Lier Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Zimmertower with its astronomical clock are among the village’s most notable attractions. Lier’s serene atmosphere is ideal for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of bigger cities.
Herbeumont
Set in the Ardennes, Herbeumont offers stunning ruins of its medieval castle that tower over the Semois River valley. The village is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a paradise for hikers and history buffs alike. The castle’s vantage point provides breathtaking panoramic views of the region.
Sainte-Ode
This small, tranquil village is nestled in the heart of the Ardennes. Known for its rustic charm, Sainte-Ode features medieval-style buildings and offers access to vast nature reserves. It’s a quiet retreat for those looking to explore rural Belgium and its deep-rooted history.
Wéris
Wéris is famous not only for its medieval heritage but also for its megalithic sites, including dolmens and menhirs that date back to prehistoric times. The village has well-preserved stone houses, and the Church of Saint Walburga is a must-see for its blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture.
Rochefort
Rochefort is another charming village known for its abbey and the famous Rochefort Trappist beer. The village’s castle ruins and the nearby caves of Han make it a top destination for both history lovers and adventure seekers. Its blend of natural beauty and medieval history makes Rochefort a unique stop.
Villers-la-Ville
Home to the iconic Villers Abbey, this village is steeped in history. The medieval ruins of the abbey are vast and impressive, offering visitors a glimpse into monastic life from centuries ago. Surrounded by woodlands, Villers-la-Ville is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history and nature.
La Roche-en-Ardenne
La Roche-en-Ardenne sits along the Ourthe River and is dominated by the ruins of a medieval castle. The village has a picturesque setting in the Ardennes, surrounded by forests and hills. It’s a top spot for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking while soaking in the medieval ambiance.
Bouillon
Bouillon is famous for its imposing castle, one of the most well-preserved in Belgium. Built on a rocky promontory, it offers stunning views of the Semois River below. The village itself is charming, with stone houses and narrow streets that make for a perfect medieval getaway.
Rochehaut
Rochehaut is a peaceful village with a medieval feel, offering panoramic views of the Semois Valley. Its medieval roots are reflected in the traditional stone buildings and old farmhouses scattered throughout the village. The area is also perfect for nature walks and exploring nearby forests.
Laforêt
A beautiful and serene village in the Semois Valley, Laforêt has been recognized as one of Wallonia’s most beautiful villages. Its medieval charm is preserved in the old houses and rural feel, with the Semois River nearby adding to its appeal. It’s a quiet retreat for history lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Grimbergen
Grimbergen is renowned for its abbey, which dates back to the 12th century, and the famous beer brewed there. The village has a rich history with stunning examples of medieval architecture, including the Baroque-style basilica. Its beautiful park and quiet atmosphere make Grimbergen a hidden gem worth exploring.
Oudenaarde
Known for its 16th-century town hall and tapestry heritage, Oudenaarde retains its medieval charm in its architecture and layout. The Church of Our Lady of Pamele and the Scheldt River add to its picturesque setting. It’s a quieter alternative to the more famous medieval cities, offering a peaceful yet historic atmosphere.
Maredsous
Maredsous is famed for its abbey, where visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the monastic setting and sample local beer and cheese made by the monks. The village surrounding the abbey is small but steeped in history, offering a peaceful retreat into Belgium’s medieval past.
This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.
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