
La Roche de l’Ecureuil: A Hidden Gem Along the Semois River
Rocher de l’écureuil, or the Squirrel Rock, is not just any old rock – it’s an epic lookout point in the heart of the Gaume
Dipping your feet, building a dam, or even swimming for a bit? What could be more fun than cooling off in a forest or in the water with this hot weather? But don’t feel like going among the crowds? These 5 ‘heatwave hotspots’ are fun places that are not too crowded. All spots are obviously to be found in the Gaume region and therefore ideal if you’re here on vacation. But I’d like to think they also have their charm on cooler days.
At about 400 meters from our vacation home in Lacuisine you will find the ‘Plage de Lacuisine’. Here you can relax and unwind on the lawn on the banks of the Semois river. You’re allowed to swim in the Semois here. The water is regularly tested and the water quality is among the best in Belgium. You can romp around on the grassy plain next to the river. This spot is also the official kayak stop in Lacuisine and therefore ideal if you want to bring your boat or sub.
La Plage de l’Antrogne is a picnic spot where the river Antrogne flows together with the Semois. you can enjoy paddling, boating or building a dam in the water. Swimming is also allowed here. There are several covered and open picnic areas and a public barbecue. Thanks to the surrounding trees and forests, it is wonderfully fresh here. From here you can also do (part of) the walk ‘Sentier des Songes‘. The photo is from less warm times, but even then it is lovely to stay here.
During the summer months, you can swim for free and under surveillance in a designated area of Lake Conchibois in Saint-Leger. The water here is of excellent quality (Blue Label). There is also a cafeteria, a skate park and paintball. You can also enjoy a walk or barbecue at the public barbecue area.
Planning a day in Arlon? Combine your citytrip with a lovely walk in the green. In the village of Clairfontaine you can dip your feet in the river Eisch at several places. Our favorite spot is within walking distance of dance studio ABC Dance in Clairfontaine. You sit here lovely under the trees in the forest, a natural air conditioning. The water is too shallow to really swim, but it’s a lovely spot to sit on a tree trunk in the river with your feet in the water. This place is also at the beginning of the walk ‘la transfrontalière’, a refreshing walk on the border between Belgium and Luxembourg in Clairfontaine.
A daytrip to Luxembourg is a must do when vacationing in the Gaume. But visiting a city can be tiring, especially with children. Our compromise: this short walk takes you past some of the main highlights of this this beautiful UNESCO worldheritage city. Afterwards, you can head to the (water) playground in park Monterey (Beim Piratenschëff). This playground is beautifully landscaped and sufficiently shaded. There’s a large pirate ship, slider, swings and a great water play area. There are also well-maintained restrooms, plenty of benches and picnic tables, and a small cafe. Ideal for providing a memorable day for both adults and children.
Rocher de l’écureuil, or the Squirrel Rock, is not just any old rock – it’s an epic lookout point in the heart of the Gaume
Luxembourg City is a must-visit destination with beautiful views, World Heritage fortifications, free public transport, and cultural offerings. The tour starts in Monterey Park and takes you through parks, landmarks, and fortifications with stunning views.
Hike to the top of the Rocher du Hat. The walk over the hills, through the forest is beautiful. And the view of the valley and the extraordinary rocks is well worth the climb. Best of all: it’s near Lacuisine!
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Looking for inspiration? We’ve collected some great tips from travelers in the region on Pinterest.