Semois Valley

(Local Name: Vallée de la Semois) The Semois rises in the extreme southeast corner of Belgium near Arlon, it flows first through the plain of Gaume in the Belgian part of Lorraine (Lorraine Belge) and at Tintigny enters the Ardennes. From here onwards it has cut a course deeply into the hills and forms broad curves around forested rocks which again and again offer charming views. Although the distance from its source to its joining the Meuse near the French town of Monthermé is only 80km/50mi as the crow flies, the total length of the river is over 200km/124mi.

The climate of the Semois valley is relatively mild, as its deep situation protects it from the predominantly westerly winds. Until a short time ago the most important agricultural product was tobacco grown along the lower course of the river, but now this only thrives in the districts further to the south; however, the production of tobacco is becoming increasingly unprofitable. The valley now lives by tourism and in its beautiful landscape it offers all kinds of attractions: canoe and boat trips, angling, numerous waymarked footpaths, camping sites, hotels and very good restaurants. There are not many cultural sites, the chief being the mighty castle of Bouillon and the abbey of Orval which is a little way off.

The steep flanks of the valley at times approach the river so closely that the roads are often high above the edge, therefore a trip through the Semois Valley is best done on foot or by boat if one is not to miss the finest parts of the landscape. Many of the larger villages are on the plateau of the Ardennes high above the windings of the river.

For those who are fit cycling through the valley offers fine views.