Things To Do
in Beauraing

Beauraing is a charming Wallonian town in Belgium known for its sacred heritage and tranquil countryside. It sits amid green hedgerows and gentle river landscapes, offering a peaceful base for exploring southern Namur Province. The town rose to international attention in the 1930s for Marian apparitions associated with Our Lady of Beauraing, which today grounds a serene shrine complex.

Beyond pilgimmage history, Beauraing showcases welcoming local culture, scenic walks, and convenient access to the Gaume region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Beauraing
morning
:

Arrive in Beauraing and check into your charming hotel, where the rustic elegance will immediately make you feel at home. Take some time to freshen up and enjoy a delightful breakfast made with local ingredients. Afterward, stroll around the picturesque streets to get acquainted with the charming atmosphere of this Belgian town.

afternoon
:

Visit the famous Sanctuary of Beauraing, a place of pilgrimage and peaceful reflection. Explore the serene surroundings and take in the beauty of the architecture and gardens. Grab lunch at a nearby café, savoring classic Belgian dishes, before embarking on a leisurely walk along the river.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a local brasserie, where you can taste authentic Belgian beers and delicious cuisine. Later on, take a quiet walk through the illuminated streets of Beauraing, absorbing the tranquil ambiance. Conclude your night with a cozy nightcap at your hotel or a nearby pub.

day 2
Exploring Beauraing
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local bakery, indulging in fresh pastries and coffee. Visit nearby attractions such as the Church of Saint-Lambert, marveling at its architectural beauty and stained-glass windows. Spend some time wandering through local markets to experience the community vibe and perhaps pick up some handmade crafts.

afternoon
:

After lunch, venture out on a nature hike in the surrounding Belgian Ardennes, where picturesque landscapes await. Take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the forest and the chirping of birds, breathing in the fresh air. Return to Beauraing for a relaxed afternoon enjoying a cup of coffee by the river.

evening
:

Try a different restaurant this evening, possibly one known for its moules-frites, a beloved Belgian dish. After dinner, find a cozy spot to watch the sunset, either by the river or from a local viewpoint. Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll, reflecting on the beauty you've encountered.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee/tea$3-5
🛏️Hotel night (mid-range)$70-120
🧀Grocery basket for two$40-60
🚆Local train/bus ticket$4-12

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming small-town atmosphere
  • Rich religious heritage and tranquil countryside
  • Good value for a Belgian-town experience
  • Easy access to Gaume and nearby nature
  • Limited nightlife and dining options in-town
  • Some services may be seasonal
  • Transportation can be slower than in bigger cities
  • Weather can be variable in shoulder seasons
  • "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Où est…?" - Where is…?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does this cost?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please
  • "Pouvez-vous recommander un restaurant?" - Could you recommend a restaurant?

Places to Visit in Beauraing

Visit one of these nice places.

Basilica of Our Lady of Beauraing

Impressive sacred architecture with a spacious forecourt and gardens, ideal for architectural and devotional imagery, especially at sunrise or golden hour.

Place du Centre (Town Center)

Historic square with well-preserved stone façades, fountains, and street scenes that capture everyday life in Beauraing.

Riverside Walk

Tranquil path along local watercourses and greenery, offering reflections and pastoral landscape shots.

Gaume Countryside Vista

Open fields and hedgerows providing wide-angle agricultural landscapes and seasonal color in spring and autumn.

Culinary Guide

Food in Beauraing

Beauraing sits in a region where Belgian classics shine: hearty stews, seasonal produce, fresh bread, and local beers. Expect comforting dishes that pair well with a beer or regional wine, all prepared with a focus on seasonal ingredients.

Beauraing Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Potjevleesch

A traditional cold meat terrine of pork and veal in its own jelly, typically served with pickles and bread.

Must-Try!

Boulet à la Liégeoise

Flavorful meatballs in a rich beer-based sauce, often enjoyed with frites.

Waterzooi

Creamy, comforting chicken or fish stew with vegetables and herbs.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Beauraing Local Market

Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, sausages, and regional specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Beauraing experiences a temperate maritime climate with cool, wet winters and mild summers. Rain can occur year-round, so packing a light waterproof layer is useful for all seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Language and Courtesy

French is the primary language in Beauraing; greet politely, shake hands, and use basic phrases when possible.

Dining Etiquette

Keep voices moderate in public spaces; wait to be seated in some traditional eateries; say please and thank you.

Public Behavior

Respect quiet residential areas, especially in the evenings; smoking restrictions may apply indoors.

Safety Guide

Safety

The town is generally safe with typical travel precautions. Mind personal belongings in busy market areas, keep valuables secure, and use 112 for emergencies. Travel insurance is sensible for international trips.

Tipping in Beauraing

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service charges are not always automatic; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; small vendors may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with occasional showers; long daylight hours make evening strolls and outdoor dining enjoyable.

Autumn

Mellow light and harvest atmosphere; vivid foliage and fewer crowds create great photo opportunities.

Winter

Cold with possible frost or light snow; cozy indoor venues and festive decorations add charm.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for walking and nature photography.

Nightlife Guide

Beauraing at Night

Beauraing offers a low-key nightlife with cozy pubs and cafes. Most evenings center on casual drinks, local conversation, and occasional live-music events at community venues; for a wider selection, nearby towns offer more bars and late-night options.

Hiking in Beauraing

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Forest and rural Gaume trails

Extensive network of walking paths through fields, hedgerows, and small woodlands suitable for day hikes.

Nearby Ardennes day trips

Short drives to forested hills and river valleys offering longer hiking routes.

Semois River trails (for a longer excursion)

Scenic routes along the Semois valley suitable for extended day trips.

Airports

How to reach Beauraing by plane.

Charleroi Brussels South Airport (CRL)

Approximately 90–110 km away; major low-cost and international flights; connected by road and rail via Charleroi.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

About 100–130 km away; wide international connections; good rail links to major Belgian cities.

Liège Airport (LGG)

Around 140–170 km away; smaller but useful for some European routes.

Getting Around

Walkability

Beauraing is highly walkable within the town center; most sights are within easy reach on foot. A car is helpful for exploring surrounding villages and countryside, and some streets are cobbled and slightly hilly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

French-speaking Belgians

Predominant in Beauraing; many families and retirees live in the area.

Families and retirees

A stable population with community-focused events and services.

A small number of international residents

Occasional expatriates and seasonal workers in tourism and services.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

The rolling Gaume countryside makes for popular road cycling routes.

Football (Soccer)

Local clubs and amateur leagues are common in Belgian towns.

Hiking

Forest and rural trails attract walkers and nature lovers.

Transportation

Traffic

Beauraing experiences light local traffic. Private cars are common, with regional trains connecting to Namur, Dinant, and Charleroi. Buses serve local routes, and parking in the town center is typically straightforward.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Beauraing.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are common in many local eateries; look for salads, cheeses, and vegetable-forward mains. When in doubt, ask for vegetable dishes or cheese plates that align with your preferences.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Belgium offers high-quality healthcare; Beauraing has local clinics and pharmacies. For hospitals with specialists, Namur or Dinant are accessible by car or public transport. Carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable and travel insurance for peace of mind.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide