How To Spend A Weekend In Han-sur-Lesse Belgium

Quaint village, yes, but Han-sur-Lesse packs a cultural punch. There’s the subterranean Grottes de Han cave complex to explore, locally brewed artisanal beer to quaff and seasonal Belgian food to gobble. Here’s how to spend two days in this charming village in the Belgian Ardennes.

Where to stay in Han-sur-Lesse

1. Mercure Han Sur Lesse

Hotel

A cosy-looking seating space at Mercure Han Sur Lesse with a glass-enclosed fire

Just a short walk from the Grottes de Han caves, this 117-bedroom hotel is decorated in a traditional Ardennes style. Timber runs throughout, creating a warm, relaxed feel, while the bedrooms feature eye-catching deer murals above the beds.

Unwind with a Belgian G&T at the lounge bar, check out the lobby artwork and take a dip in the swimming pool. End the day with a drink next to the fireplace at the hotel bar.

Pro tip: if you’re looking for a local experience, ask the bartender to knock up an Arduenna Sour; made with a local organic gin, this classy cocktail serves up notes of juniper, peach and pine.

Day one

Visit the Inzofalle Deer Farm

Enjoy the natural beauty of the Ardennes at Inzofalle Deer Farm

Head to Brasserie de la Lesse

Next head to Brasserie de la Lesse, an independent microbrewery that operates as a co-operative. They’re committed to using local resources as much as possible, offering a range of beers – from La Chinette (a light, floral Belgian blonde) to La Rouge Croix (a rich, sweet brown ale). Join the tour to learn about the beer-making process and their commitment to locally sourced ingredients.

Dine at Merlesse

Forget any preconceived notions of Belgian food and book a table at this trendy open-plan restaurant. The menu was curated by renowned chef Benoit de Witte and the wine list by his brother Bernard; they strike a perfect balance between haute cuisine and local tradition. Nothing embodies this more than their four-course seasonal menu – serving traditional venison with a red wine sauce and Parisian gnocchi. Vegetarians are also well-catered for, with dishes including smoked leek and goat’s cheese.

Day two

Visit the Grottes de Han caves

The first visitors to this underground cave system arrived in the early 1800s, and they faced a perilous journey in the pitch-black across rugged terrain. Thankfully, access is now vastly improved. The cave complex spans several kilometres, penetrating deep into the Ardennes countryside, with stalagmites and stalactites, rivers and lakes, and large halls to see. Take time for photos, especially in the vast main chamber, which hosts music events and black-tie dinners in the summer.

The magical, subterranean Grottes de Han caves are the main attraction

Stroll around the village in the afternoon

Grey-stone cottages, winding rural lanes and a pretty gothic church are the highlights of tiny Han-sur-Lesse. Enjoy the relaxed pace and take advantage of the hotel’s position to explore what’s on offer. A couple of steps from the lobby and you’re in the shadow of Saint-Hubert Church. Further afield you’ll find cafes and gift shops. Sit and watch the world pass at Taverne du Centre cafe while enjoying a coffee and a waffle. Or head to the natural wildlife park that hosts 250ha (620 acres) of Wallonian flora and fauna – look out for Przewalski’s horses, a rare and endangered species. If you have any questions about the region make sure you head to the charming Tourist Office opposite the hotel.

Cafes offer a chilled spot to watch the world pass in Han-sur-Lesse

Planning to explore the region further? Make sure you book one of the best places to stay near Namur through Culture Trip.

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