Into the Amel Valley

A quick look at the map does not reveal that this is a varied, albeit always easy hike. This part of Belgium is particularly pretty, and rightfully a nice holiday area. The Belgian Forest Management has a knack for maintaining their forest while keeping it unspoilt and appealing.

The hike starts at the old Monastry just north of Montenau. The beginning of the hike may appear a little tedious, if not boring, but once the trail descends into the Amel Valley, the interest picks up. Forest roads give way to footpath along the stream. For a short while, one skirts the villages of Thirimont of Ondeval, with some very pretty modern-design holiday cottages. Soon after, the trail becomes wild again, and follows the Amel stream back to Monastry.

Actual walking time is less then 2.5 hours.

Note that nearby Montenau is famous for its Ardennes Ham, which one can by at source.