Hike in the Sclaigneaux nature reserve

Located in Andenne, on the heights of the Meuse valley between Namur and Huy, the Sclaigneaux nature reserve is now preserved and offers an almost unique biodiversity in Belgium. Even though it is now classified as Natura 2000, this was not always the case; the land was exploited for a long time (which gives it its unique character today).

At the end of the 19th century, a zinc processing plant settled on the plateau that would become a nature reserve 100 years later.

Large chimneys were therefore built, emitting sulfurous gases daily, which would transform into acid rain laden with heavy metals. The vegetation was completely destroyed by this acidity, and the rock was exposed.

It will take many years before nature slowly reclaims its rights, and only a few species will manage to adapt to this new environment.

All this climate change has today given way to a unique biodiversity in Belgium, which allows, in particular, to observe butterflies usually quite discreet in Belgium (such as the Small Heath) and some rare orchid species that grow there like weeds.

The easiest way to reach the Sclaigneaux Nature Reserve by car is to go to the reserve car park located at the following address :  Rue Saint-Joseph 581/577, 5300 Andenne
 

A first parking area is accessible along Rue Saint-Joseph, but it is also possible to drive a little further, approximately 700m of track, and reach a second parking area which is also the starting point for the various hikes.

There are two marked walks in the Sclaigneaux nature reserve, both described on the website of Andenne Tourism.

Please note, there are some small errors on their website regarding the length of the walks.

We did the marked walk "Voyage to the Sclaigneaux nature reserve" of 4.87km (which is actually closer to 6.5km if you park at the first car park) which takes us through the most wild part of the reserve, you can find our GPX route in the following information block.

Even if the walk is quite accessible, we still recommend doing it in boots, especially if it has rained recently.

After a few kilometers, you will find yourself in the meadows of the Sclaigneaux nature reserve, don't hesitate to take the path that leads to the viewpoint to enjoy a panorama over the Meuse valley!

The markup suggests driving back after reaching the Loysse stream. This road is truly not enjoyable and not suitable for hiking, so we advise you, if time permits, to follow the stream by taking the path that begins just before crossing it to rejoin the road.