Hiking on the High Fens from Signal de Botrange

Hiking on the High Fens is a popular activity at all times of the year. Here I give five walks of different distances starting from the Signal de Botrange.

For a general introduction to the High Fens of Belgium I refer you to my post on Mont Rigi which also contains route descriptions and maps of four walks from that starting point. You could also start from Baraque Michel, in which case my post on two walks from Baraque Michel might be useful. In this post I go down the road a little to explore another area of the High Fens, with five walks varying from 5.5 km to 17 km starting from Signal de Botrange. And for some great insights into the benefits of hiking, check out this post from Brian.

What is Signal de Botrange?

The Signal of Botrange is the highest point of Belgium at an altitude of 694 meters. A wooden tower was built here in 1804 by the French Colonel Tranchot. In 1899 it was replaced by the Germans by a 30-meter tower, also made of wood, that was used to guard the border with Belgium. The tower disappeared in 1925 to make way for the current complex and the stone tower in 1934. The Botrange visitor centre offers information, a museum, shop, a brasserie, a children’s play area, and toilets. During COVID times some or all of these may not be open so it’s worth going prepared or checking in advance at Botrange.be. All photos are by Discovering Belgium’s Roving Photographer Herman Vandecauter, who has visited the High Fens regularly over the years.

1. A family-friendly walk on the High Fens

This is a short introduction to the High Fens. It’s ideal for children and families. It should take you about an hour and a half. Click to enlarge the map which you can download as a PDF or get the GPX track from RouteYou.

2. A popular walk of 8.5 km

This is one of the most popular hikes from Signal de Botrange. It heads north into the fens and around to Baraque Michel, where if it’s open you can take a rest or get something to eat. Then it heads south and circles back to the Signal de Botrange. Click on the map below to enlarge, download it as a PDF, and get the GPX track from RouteYou.

3. Botrange-Baheyon 12 km

Slightly longer, the highlight of this walk is the Bayehon waterfall, where the Bayehon stream hurls itself into the depths, nine meters below. It’s a really beautiful and varying landscape of fir trees and moors, and you can greet the Old Oak (Vieux Chêne) which has been greeting travellers for centuries. Map to enlarge and download as a PDF. GPX track from RouteYou.

4. Botrange 13 km

If you want to try and get away from people (not always easy in this area, especially at the weekends), then you might want to try this northern route from Signal de Botrange. Map to download as a PDF. GPX track from RouteYou.

5. Botrange 17 km

Finally, here’s something for a whole day expedition. Make sure you take sufficient supplies for the day, and dress accordingly for the weather forecast. Map to enlarge and download as a PDF. GPX track from RouteYou.

I hope you enjoy your hike in the High Fens from Signal de Botrange. If you have any other routes you would like to share, drop me a line below or contact me.

Where to stay in or near Botrange

Here are some recommendations for B&Bs/hotels in or near Signal de Botrange, Belgium:

• B&B La Bouliniere, Chemin du Chateau 9, 4960 Malmedy: : “A beautiful place! Modern, spacious, clean and very comfortable. The breakfast was perfect, we love everything about this accommodation.”
• Le Coup de Coeur de Marie, 11 rue Machurée Fontaine, 4950 Waimes: “The house is run by very friendly people who also provide a delicious rich breakfast. They are always there for you with tips.”
• B&B Chatelet Cremers, Rue Florikosse 3, 4802 Verviers: “An absolutely lovely place to stay in Verviers. Unusual and full of charm, and very welcoming. The beds are excellent, as is the breakfast.”
• Latkya B&B, 3 Rue du Thier, 4950 Robertville: “Hosts are very friendly and dedicated. Cleanliness and attention to detail, very hospitable accommodation, outdoor bar and breakfast…”
• Le Mont Rigi, 135 Route de Botrange, 4950 Waimes: “The breakfast is superb. The restaurant is one of the best in Belgium. The rooms are modern and well equipped. The view from the room is amazing.”

Of course there are other possibilities. Feel free to use the link below to find other accommodation in or near Signal de Botrange:

Denzil Walton

I created Discovering Belgium in 2011 to share the country’s hidden stories, fascinating places, and remarkable people. Through articles, photography, and audio walks, I share discoveries that reveal Belgium beyond the obvious. Hope you enjoy this site.