By train, bike or on foot: 100% zen, 0% car
Southern Belgium is the perfect gateway to greener holidays. A legacy of Belgium’s industrial past, Wallonia is home to one of Europe’s most extensive car-free networks.
Over 1500 kilometers of former railway lines have been repurposed into greenways — safe, scenic routes for walkers, cyclists, horse riders, and travelers with reduced mobility.
Known as the RAVeL network, it helps you travel peacefully through unspoiled countryside, through charming towns and nature reserves, all without the need for a car.
Wallonia has also introduced the Points Noeuds system, a network of signposted intersections. It allows cyclists to create an itinerary according to their capabilities.
There’s more! VISITWallonia recently created 12 car-free itineraries
… and there are more to come! These new car-free itineraries tick all the boxes for a low-impact, immersive getaway. Each of the specially designed routes begins and ends at a railway station. Journeys between stopovers are made on foot or by bike. Detailed travel diaries include maps, local tips, activities, food stops, and accommodation suggestions. Here are five examples:
Waterloo – La Louvière
- Step into history at the immersive Waterloo Museum, with its 4D battle re-enactments.
- Discover the towering hydraulic boatlifts, mechanical giants standing over the water, at the Canal du Centre.
Mons – Tournai
- Explore Beloeil Castle, “the Belgian Versailles”, its 14th-century roots, elegant French décor, and vast gardens.
- Travel back 5000 years at the Archeosite, from prehistoric times to Roman Emperors.
Charleroi – Erquelinnes
- Experience Charleroi’s industrial heritage and today’s street art vibe.
- Wander the hanging gardens of medieval Thuin and enjoy the rolling rural beauty of Erquelinnes.
Namur – Dinant
- Stroll through the poetic water gardens of Annevoie.
- Relax at Maredsous Abbey with cheese, beer, and peaceful monastic surroundings.
Marche (Marloie) – Liège
- Visit Durbuy, the world’s smallest town, perfect for a romantic break.
- Discover Wéris, a village of legends and megaliths like the mysterious Devil’s Bed.
Find lots of car-free itineraries and ideas for a slower way to travel.
Tip: Look out for accommodation that shows the Green Key label, awarded to lodgings committed to environmentally supportive practices, for instance reducing water and energy use and supporting local producers.
