Belgium is not the first destination that comes to mind when you think of skiing. But, this country has a hidden treasure—the Ardennes. Even though the Ardennes are not the highest mountains in Europe, they offer several excellent spots that would please those who want to go skiing, snowboarding, sledging, snow scooter racing, and ice-skating.
The majority of resorts are concentrated in the province of Lüttich. Mont des Brumes is the main spot to check out in the Ardennes. It reaches 530 m (1739 ft) and has around 1 km (0.6 mi) of slopes. Mont des Brumes is equally suitable for both—experienced skiers and newbies—as its slopes vary in their difficulty and length.
The other two destinations worth visiting are Ovifat and Val de Wanne. Ovifat is one of the highest peaks in Belgium: it reaches 600 m (1969 ft) and offers 1.2 km (0.7 mi) of slopes. Val de Wanne is lower with just 480 m (1571 ft) in height, but it has reasonably long slopes that stretch out for 1.4 km (0.9 mi).
Baraque de Fraiture is the other resort to keep in mind as it is one of the most popular winter destinations in Belgium. It is located in the province of Luxemburg and has a very well-organised infrastructure. Its peaks reach 650 m (2133 ft) and visitors may find their ideal route on over 2 km (1.2 mi) of slopes.
Aside from the Ardennes, Belgium can also offer the Hautes Fanges (The High Fens)—the perfect place for cross-country skiing. It is an upland area in the province of Liege, between the Ardennes and the Eifel highlands. Being surrounded by mountains, the Hautes Fanges are an excellent location to enjoy scenic and picturesque landscapes.
Practical info
When is the ideal season to ski in Belgium?
Belgium is an excellent skiing destination from the winter season, which spans from December to February. During this period, the Ardennes is covered with snow, and the temperature is sufficiently low to maintain the snow in good condition. However, be sure to confirm the snow conditions before planning your trip since the snow availability may differ from year to year. Show more
What are the popular skiing sites in Belgium?
Mont des Brumes, Ovifat, Val de Wanne, and Baraque de Fraiture are the most preferred ski destinations in the Ardennes of Belgium. Mont des Brumes accommodates both beginners and experienced skiers, while Ovifat offers challenging slopes that could thrill experienced skiers. Val de Wanne has long slopes for beginners, while Baraque de Fraiture is another popular winter site, boasting over two kilometers of slopes to meet your skiing needs. Show more
Where is the highest peak in Belgium to ski?
For skiing, Ovifat is the highest peak in Belgium, with a height of 600 meters (1969 ft) and offers 1.2 km (0.7 mi) of skiing slopes. This peak is most desirable by experienced ski enthusiasts who prefer more challenging slopes than the other destinations in the Ardennes. However, Ovifat also caters to beginners, providing mixed-difficulty slopes suitable for all. Show more
What is the best place in Belgium for cross-country skiing?
Hautes Fagnes is the perfect site for cross-country skiing in Belgium since this upland area in Liege's province has several well-marked ski tracks to suit your needs. As a skier, you get to enjoy the beautiful, picturesque landscape of the mountainous region as you ski. Ski equipment might be rented on-site if need be. Show more
Can all ski levels enjoy skiing in Belgium?
Yes. Belgium caters to skiers of all levels, experience, and skill. The Ardennes region of the country boasts ski destinations with varying slope difficulty levels. For instance, ski beginners and experienced ones would enjoy Mont des Brumes. Ovifat caters to experienced skiers preferring more challenging slopes, and Val de Wanne has long beginner slopes. Cross-country skiing in Hautes Fagnes has mixed-difficulty ski tracks, welcoming skiers of varying levels. Show more
