Winter hike in the Belgian Ardennes: the Bayehon waterfall

Longfaye is a small Ardennes village located in the municipality of Malmedy, in the southern part of the High Fens plateau. Situated at over 550 meters above sea level (the highest point in Belgium is the Signal de Botrange at 674 meters), it is surrounded by forested areas, making it a perfect starting point for hiking enthusiasts.

After putting on our multiple layers to protect ourselves from the cold and our hiking boots, we start our hike from the center of Longfaye village towards the Bayehon waterfall. Very quickly, leaving the village, we are surrounded by snow-covered fir trees with the only landmarks being the tracks of previous hikers on the ground.

The snowy, winding path we follow comes to a fork in the road. We make a round trip to discover the famous Bayehon waterfall. Along the trail, the sound of water echoes in our ears. The view opens up, and we discover below this 9-meter-high waterfall. It is the 2nd highest waterfall in Belgium after the Coo waterfall.

Despite the negative temperatures during our hike in the high fens, the flow of the Bayehon waterfall is powerful. We cautiously descend onto icy ground at the foot of the waterfall to see this masterpiece of nature more closely.

After enjoying the Bayehon waterfall, we retrace our steps to resume our original route. We follow the path until we cross the Bayehon stream, which feeds the waterfall we saw just before. On the left, a wooden shelter for a break or a picnic. We go around it to take the small path that goes up the stream between the trees.

We walk among the trees, on rooted paths, on wooden walkways or deep within snowy fir forests, accompanied by a shy sun.

Then, the landscape opens up a little to reveal some meadows where we meet three horses.

For the end of this loop, we follow a path that winds between wetlands and forest. This typical landscape of the fagnes with tall grasses where water runs. It's hard to know where to put your feet with the 15 centimeters of snow that fell in the last few days! One must be careful, as the paths are wet and muddy underneath this pretty white layer.

The sky is completely clear and the snow on the trees melts drop by drop with the sun's rays. We cross a last covered picnic table that is guarded by a snowman before finding the tarmac of Longfaye under our feet. This marks the end of this beautiful winter hike in Belgium.

We extended our experience in the Hautes Fagnes by enjoying a seasonal dish at Chez Rémy. A tavern restaurant offering a variety of savoury and sweet dishes. They also have a nice outdoor terrace which must be pleasant during the warmer months. Special mention for the Liège meatballs, which we loved.

Despite the freezing temperatures, this breath of fresh air amidst the snowy landscapes of the Hautes Fagnes did us the world of good. A moment outside of time under the snow and sun to reconnect with nature. We hope this hike has inspired you for a future winter getaway in Belgium.