A weekend in Wallonia: head to Waterloo

A first day in Waterloo can naturally begin at the Waterloo Battlefield 1815 Domain. This vast historical site brings together several must-see spots, including the Memorial 1815, the Lion's Mound, and the Hougoumont Farm.

The Memorial offers an immersion into the events that preceded and accompanied the battle. Through the visit setups, displayed objects, and historical explanations, visitors can better understand the context of the confrontation and the role played by the different armies.

A few steps away, the Lion's Mound dominates the landscape. After climbing its many steps, you enjoy an unobstructed view of the old battlefield. This perspective allows you to gauge the extent of the site and situate the different places within their environment.

The Hougoumont Farm completes the discovery. It was one of the strategic points of the battle and is today an important step in the historical journey. A shuttle connects certain parts of the domain according to the offered periods and schedules.

To prolong the immersion, it is possible to discover the surroundings differently than through the museum spaces. The tourist office offers several routes around the battlefield, accessible on foot or by bike.

A pedestrian walk of about 14 kilometers allows you to explore the landscapes surrounding the main historical sites. For cyclists, loops of 31 or 37 kilometers offer a more extensive discovery of the region. Shortened versions can also be considered depending on the time available and the participants' level.

These routes are a great way to combine culture and the outdoors. Between country paths, commemorative monuments, and clear views, history can be discovered right in the landscape.

For a family outing, you can plan a visit to the Memorial in the morning, then a shorter walk around in the afternoon. More experienced walkers can devote an entire day to the domain and its paths.

After this historical immersion, the center of Waterloo offers a change of atmosphere. Its shopping streets, terraces, and numerous gourmet addresses invite you to take your time.

You can spend a few hours shopping, settle in a café, or explore the neighborhoods close to the center. The destination remains compact enough to be discovered without turning the stay into a race against time.

Waterloo is also a practical base for diversifying activities. Depending on your desires, you can explore neighboring communities, enjoy the green spaces of Walloon Brabant, or plan a getaway to Brussels. The proximity to the capital makes it easy to add a museum visit, a walk in the historical center, or a day of shopping to the program.

After a day of visits and walks, the Van der Valk Hotel Waterloo welcomes you in a warm atmosphere. Its restaurant, brasserie, and bar allow you to continue the evening without having to take the car.

The establishment occupies an old sugar factory dating from the 19th century, renovated to combine the industrial character of the building with contemporary comfort. The catering notably honors Belgian dishes as well as local and seasonal products in a setting suitable for stays as a couple, with the family or with friends.

In the summer, the terrace allows you to enjoy a meal or a drink outside. After dinner, all that's left is to return to your room and unwind before a new day of discoveries.

On Saturday morning, start with the Memorial 1815 and the Lion's Mound. Continue your discovery towards the Hougoumont Farm, then take a gourmet break in the surroundings.

In the afternoon, choose a walk around the battlefield or head to the center of Waterloo to explore its shops. Back at the hotel, enjoy a drink at the bar before sharing a meal at the restaurant or brasserie.

On Sunday, tailor your program to your mood: a bike ride in the countryside, a few hours of shopping, a new historical visit, or a getaway to Brussels. This diversity allows everyone to compose a balanced stay between culture, relaxation, and culinary pleasures.

For your next getaway, our Van der Valk hotels also welcome you in Nivelles-South, Charleroi Airport, Mons Congress, Liège Sélys, Liège Congress, Verviers, and Spa.

Cultural city-trip, nature stay, wellness weekend or holiday departure: each destination offers a new way to discover Wallonia in a comfortable and friendly setting.