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Wallonia: A Culinary Journey
Make the short trip to Belgium’s scenic southern region of Wallonia for a food-focused adventure rooted in authenticity and generosity
In this picturesque region, historic villages, culturally rich cities and medieval castles intertwine with the landscape: wide open spaces shaped by the Ardennes forests, meandering rivers and deep green valleys. Wallonia’s rich culinary traditions provide a window into its colourful history and reflect its geographical position between the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg and France.
Think classic French cooking with ample Belgian generosity: Rustic hams, Ardennes trout, Gaumais pâté, Chimay escavèche, Herve cheese, Liège-style meatballs and waffles, not forgetting smooth and silky Belgian chocolate among many local specialities from around the region.
Of course, it’s the talented chefs, together with the region’s producers, who bring Wallonia’s larder to the fore, in both gourmet restaurants and friendly bistros. Standout restaurants such as two-Michelin-starred L’air du temps in Liernu and green-Michelin-starred Hors-Champs in Gembloux highlight the landscape’s produce. Across the region, chefs prioritise sustainability through the dedication to each season’s harvest.
Trappist beers brewed in centuries-old abbeys accompany hearty meals along with locally produced wines whose prominence is on the rise. In fact, Wallonia is experiencing a wine renaissance as bold new producers take an uncompromising approach to quality. Today, more than 250 hectares of Wallonia are dedicated to vines, with pioneering vineyards such as Domaine La Falize gaining recognition for their organic and biodynamic practices, in particular. Belgium’s largest vineyard, the family-run Domaine du Chant d’Éole, has drawn attention in recent years, after its Blanc de Blancs was named ‘World’s Best Bubble’ at the prestigious London Wine Competition in 2019.
A wide choice of characterful hotels, from châteaux to contemporary boltholes, ensure a visit here is a relaxing retreat focused on food, wine, culture and the outdoors. An easy weekend getaway from the UK – whether by rail or car – this captivating part of Belgium provides a scenic backdrop for culinary adventures that tell a story of Wallonia’s history and landscape.
Click here for more information about food-loving Wallonia.
Imagery by: (c) PhotoEliophot, Justin Paquay, Olivier Michallet, Katoo Peters
Sponsored by VISITWallonia
