Things To Do
in Bertrix
Bertrix is a small, quiet market town in the Belgian Ardennes, situated among forests, rolling hills and small agricultural valleys. The town has a compact centre with traditional Walloon architecture, local shops and parish churches reflecting rural life in Luxembourg province. Bertrix serves as a practical base for exploring Ardennes trails, cycling routes and nearby nature reserves while offering a relaxed, slow-paced atmosphere.
Visitors come for outdoor activities, local gastronomy rooted in Ardennes charcuterie and regional ham, and easy access to nearby towns and scenic viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Bertrix, taking in the beautiful architecture that dates back centuries. Visit the Church of Saint-Laurent, where you can admire its stunning stained glass windows and learn about its history. Enjoy a leisurely coffee at a nearby café, soaking in the ambiance of this quaint town.
In the afternoon, head to the Bertrix Museum, where you can delve into the local history and culture through fascinating exhibits. After the museum, stroll through the town's picturesque parks, perfect for a relaxing break amid nature. Don’t miss the chance to visit local artisan shops and perhaps pick up a unique souvenir.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in the heart of Bertrix to savor traditional Belgian cuisine, such as carbonnade flamande. Post dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, allowing the charm of the town to envelop you. If you’re up for it, conclude your night with a local beer at a nearby pub, mingling with friendly locals.
Embark on a short drive to the stunning Bouillon Castle, one of the most iconic landmarks in the region. As you arrive, take a guided tour to learn about the castle’s fascinating history and the role it played in medieval times. The views from the castle walls over the Semois River are breathtaking, making for perfect photo opportunities.
After your castle visit, explore the surrounding area by hiking one of the scenic trails that offer a glimpse into the lush Ardennes landscape. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic spot, where you can relax and take in the beauty of nature. As you walk, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife and unique plants native to the region.
Return to Bertrix for dinner at a local brasserie, where you can try regional specialties like game dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, enjoying the peaceful sound of water and the surrounding nature. End your evening at a local café with a warm drink, reflecting on your adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee (café) | $2.50-4.00 |
| 🍺Domestic beer (bar) | $3-5 |
| 🚕Taxi start / short ride | $4-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Great base for exploring the Ardennes: forests, trails and outdoor activities.
- Quiet, authentic Walloon town with local food specialities and friendly locals.
- Lower prices and fewer crowds compared with larger Belgian tourist centres.
- Limited nightlife and cultural attractions compared with cities.
- Public transportation is limited; a car helps to explore the region fully.
- Fewer vegetarian/vegan options in smaller local restaurants.
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please
- "Où est la gare / le centre-ville ?" - Where is the train station / town centre?
Places to Visit in Bertrix
Visit one of these nice places.
Photograph traditional Walloon architecture, the parish church and everyday life at the market — great for street and architectural shots.
Dense woods, dappled light and mossy paths offer classic forest photography, especially in autumn colours or after rain when the atmosphere is mystical.
Small hilltops and road-side viewpoints provide wide landscapes of rolling fields, hedgerows and the patchwork of rural Ardennes.
Early morning or late-afternoon light over calm water creates reflective compositions; look for mist in cooler months.
Food in Bertrix
Bertrix Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A smoky, cured ham typical of the Ardennes region — often sold at markets and found on menus in local charcuteries and auberges.
Must-Try!
Venison, wild boar or hare prepared in rich sauces during autumn and winter; commonly available at traditional restaurants and seasonal menus.
Crispy fries served in town snack bars or brasseries, paired with regional mayonnaise or beer-based sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small weekly market in the town square where producers sell bread, cheese, charcuterie (including Jambon d'Ardenne), seasonal fruits and vegetables; great for picnic supplies.
Nearby villages host seasonal or holiday markets showcasing local specialties, honey, preserves and artisanal breads — ideal for tasting regional produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is the main language in Bertrix; greeting with Bonjour (or Bonsoir) and a polite Merci goes a long way. Basic French phrases are appreciated by locals.
Be polite, modest and patient in conversation—Walloon culture values friendliness but not loud or intrusive behaviour.
Stick to marked trails, close gates after passing farmland, and respect private property signs; littering is frowned upon.
For appointments and organised activities be on time; for casual social visits a few minutes’ flexibility is normal.
Safety
Tipping in Bertrix
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included in restaurant bills (service compris) but leaving a small extra tip (5–10% or rounding up) for good service is appreciated. For taxis, rounding up or adding a small amount is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants, though some small cafés or market stalls prefer cash. Carry some euros for rural purchases and check cards for contactless capability.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warmest and busiest season with long daylight hours ideal for hiking, cycling and lakeside activities; pack insect repellent for ticks and mosquitoes and expect pleasant temperatures, though occasional rain can cool things.
Stunning fall foliage across the Ardennes makes this a favorite time for photographers and hikers; temperatures cool and trails can be wet and muddy—bring layered clothing and good boots.
Cold and potentially snowy; low tourist numbers make for a peaceful visit but check weather before heading out as rural roads and higher trails can be icy or impassable.
Wildflowers and fresh greenery return; variable weather with alternating sun and rain—ideal for quieter hikes and seeing nature come alive.
Bertrix at Night
Hiking in Bertrix
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of short to medium loops that pass through woods, farmland and small streams—good for day hikes and family walks.
Longer marked routes that traverse the Ardennes landscape connect Bertrix with neighbouring villages and provide multi-day hiking options for experienced walkers.
A locally marked trail system offering varying lengths and difficulty levels, highlighting viewpoints, forests and cultural points of interest around the town.
Airports
How to reach Bertrix by plane.
Belgium’s main international airport (roughly 1.5–2 hours by car depending on traffic). Train and bus connections to central Belgium exist, but a rental car is often most convenient for reaching Bertrix.
Used by many low-cost carriers and about 1–1.5 hours by car to the Ardennes area; car hire or shuttle services are common ways to continue to Bertrix.
Approximately 1–1.5 hours by car south of Bertrix across the border; good option for some international flights and convenient for southern Ardennes visits.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population is French-speaking Wallonia residents with strong local ties to rural life and traditions.
Like many rural towns, there is a significant older demographic and family-based communities engaged in agriculture and local trades.
Some residents commute to larger towns or across the border (Luxembourg) for work; this adds a modest commuter demographic.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local amateur football clubs are popular, with weekly matches and community support.
Road cycling and mountain biking are widely practised thanks to quiet roads and forest tracks; the Ardennes are an attraction for recreational and serious cyclists.
Walking, hiking and trail running are common leisure activities due to extensive trails and natural terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bertrix.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with urban centres: ask for cheese plates, omelettes, salads or vegetable stews; many restaurants will adapt dishes if asked in advance.
Vegan choices are less common; bring snacks or shop at supermarkets for basics (plant-based milks, bread, legumes) and request simple vegetable dishes at restaurants.
Gluten-free awareness is growing — inform staff when ordering and favour naturally gluten-free options (meats, salads, vegetable dishes); supermarkets carry some GF products.