Le Hérou: a scenic Highlight in the Ardennes

Le Hérou is one of the most striking landscapes in the Belgian Ardennes. It is a long ridge of slate, stretching for 1.5 kilometers along a tight meander of the Ourthe River, rising to a height of 80 meters. The rock emerges here in sharp edges and steps, forming a crest that is at times so narrow that the slopes drop almost vertically down to the river bend on either side. For hikers, this creates a path that resembles a natural footbridge: rugged, uneven, yet full of small niches and overwhelming views.

The impression left by Le Hérou is multifaceted. Seen from below, from the riverbank, the rock appears as a solid wall, almost unassailable above the Ourthe. From above, however, it looks like a comb breaking free from the dense forest, running alongside the river. This contrast makes the site so compelling: a play between weight and lightness, between massive presence and narrow line. From the ridge, trails lead down into the valley, either via forest paths or by way of a steep descent secured with chains along a rock face.

The Ourthe itself decisively shapes this landscape. Here it winds in a tight loop, calm and at times almost sluggish, then again livelier where the water piles up between boulders and forms small rapids. In combination with the wooded banks, a valley emerges that changes with the seasons. In spring, fresh green shines above the dark stone; in summer, the ridge almost vanishes into the foliage; in autumn, the forests provide warm contrasts; and in winter, the rock formation stands out most clearly, when the trees are bare and the slate edges look even sharper in the diffuse light.

Deux Ourthes Nature Park

Le Hérou lies at the heart of the Deux Ourthes Nature Park, a protected area named after the two branches of the river that meet at Houffalize. The park encompasses extensive forests, moors, and open valleys that support a rich variety of flora and fauna. While rare wet meadows with characteristic grasses and flowers thrive on the valley floor, red deer, wild boar, and numerous bird species inhabit the woods. Le Hérou is a landmark here, yet it blends into the varied landscape: a rocky ridge not standing apart, but making the relief of the Ourthe valley visible.

Historically, the region around Le Hérou was barely developed. It was only in the 20th century that the site was systematically made accessible to hikers. The path along the crest is considered demanding (a moderately difficult mountain trail). It requires surefootedness and caution, especially in wet conditions. The rock demands concentrated walking, while constantly opening new vistas into the valley and beyond.

Thus, Le Hérou is emblematic of the Ardennes: between forest, river, and rock lies a place that is both wild and accessible. Those who linger here experience how much nature consists of layers, fractures, and transitions – and how impressive a simple ridge can be when framed by river and forest.

By car, Le Hérou can only be reached from above, but very conveniently from the parking area at the Belvédère du Hérou on the edge of Houffalize.