Things To Do
in Jalhay
Jalhay is a small Belgian municipality in the Liège province, nestled in the Ardennes foothills and surrounded by dense forests and rolling hills. It serves as a tranquil gateway to the Hautes Fagnes nature reserve and the spa town of Spa, offering easy access to outdoor adventures and scenic countryside. The town exudes rural charm with traditional Belgian architecture, welcoming cafés, and a relaxed pace of life.
Visitors come for nature, hiking, and a taste of authentic Walloon hospitality within reach of Liège and Spa.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the Hautes Fagnes Nature Reserve, known for its stunning peat bogs and vibrant wildlife. The cool morning air and serene surroundings will invigorate your senses as you wander through the trails. Be sure to bring along your camera to capture the breathtaking landscapes and unique flora.
After your hike, enjoy a leisurely picnic lunch by the lakeside in the reserve, surrounded by the tranquility of nature. Spend the afternoon exploring the visitor center to learn about the local ecology and the importance of conservation in the area. You may even want to try your hand at birdwatching, as many native species call this area home.
Return to Jalhay for a cozy dinner at a local trattoria, where you can sample traditional Belgian dishes. As the sun sets, take a stroll through the charming streets of Jalhay, admiring the local architecture. End the evening with a glass of Belgian beer at a nearby tavern, soaking in the warm atmosphere.
Take a short drive to the nearby town of Spa, famous for its healing springs and lavish spa resorts. Start your morning with a visit to the stunning Royal Casino, where you can admire its grand architecture and learn about the town's history as a spa destination. Enjoy a cup of coffee at a quaint café before exploring the local shops that showcase artisanal crafts.
Spend your afternoon indulging in a relaxing spa treatment, choosing from a range of wellness options that the town is renowned for. If time permits, stroll through the picturesque Parc de 1er Prévôt, where you can enjoy the manicured gardens and perhaps find a spot to read or meditate. Embrace the leisurely pace of Spa as you unwind and rejuvenate.
Head back to Jalhay for dinner at a traditional restaurant featuring local specialties. Enjoy your meal while soaking in the ambiance of the local culture, surrounded by residents and travelers alike. As night falls, consider joining a guided ghost tour that will reveal the spooky legends and stories hidden in the streets of Jalhay.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍺Beer (0.5L) in a pub | $4-7 |
| 🛒Groceries (monthly) | $150-300 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to the Ardennes with easy access to Spa and Liège
- Quiet, scenic, family-friendly environment
- Limited nightlife within Jalhay itself
- Small-town amenities compared to larger cities
- "Bonjour" - Hello / Good morning
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S’il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais ?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est… ?" - Where is…?
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
Places to Visit in Jalhay
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic lake near Spa that reflects the surrounding pines and changing skies; ideal for sunset shots.
Peat bogs and pine forests along elevated boardwalks offering moody, expansive landscapes.
Cascading rivers and forested banks with viewpoints and scenic footpaths.
Food in Jalhay
Jalhay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Liège-style meatballs in a rich onion gravy, typically served with fries.
Must-Try!
Beef stewed in beer with onions and herbs, a regional classic.
Mussels cooked in white wine or beer, served with fries.
Warm potato salad with bacon and onions, dressed with vinegar.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Farmers’ stalls with cheeses, charcuterie, produce and baked goods; try fresh regional items.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
French is the dominant language; greet with a polite ‘Bonjour’ and say thank you ‘Merci’.
Be punctual and polite; keep conversations calm in public spaces and avoid loud behavior late at night.
Safety
Tipping in Jalhay
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in bars and restaurants.
Cash is widely accepted, as are major cards; some small venues may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with frequent showers; long daylight hours are perfect for hiking and outdoor picnics.
Vibrant foliage and cooler temperatures; excellent for color-rich landscape photography and forest walks.
Cold, with possible snow; some trails may be icy; festive markets in nearby Spa add charm.
Milder weather, blooming flora, and a good time for outdoor activities and birdwatching.
Jalhay at Night
Hiking in Jalhay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Net of peat bogs and pine forests with wooden boardwalks and long-distance routes.
Disused rail line converted into a scenic hiking and cycling path.
Popular highland loops offering extensive nature experiences in the High Fens area.
Airports
How to reach Jalhay by plane.
Located near Loncin, about 40-60 minutes by car from Jalhay; good for European flights.
Major international hub about 1.5-2 hours by car or train.
Nearby in the Netherlands; roughly 1.5 hours by car.
South of Brussels; around 2 hours by car.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Families live in the surrounding villages; child-friendly activities are common.
Active, scenic communities with clubs and nature-based activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular nationwide; local clubs and regional leagues are common in the area.
Hilly Ardennes routes are ideal for road cycling and mountain biking.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jalhay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Belgian dishes can be adapted; opt for vegetable starters, salads, cheeses, and egg dishes; ask for no meat stock or use plant-based stock.