Group accommodation in the Ardennes: everything you need to know
A weekend away with a large group requires different choices than a holiday for two. You need space, good kitchen facilities and enough bedrooms. The Ardennes is the region for group accommodation in Belgium. Here is what you need to know.
The Ardennes offer group accommodation for 8 to more than 30 people. Think spacious farmhouses, castles and large chalets with professional kitchens, multiple bathrooms and extensive outdoor spaces. Book at least three months in advance for popular weekends.
What makes a good group accommodation?
Group accommodation has different priorities to a property for two or four people. The communal spaces are at least as important as the bedrooms. A large living room where everyone can sit together, a dining area for the whole group and a kitchen that can cope. Communal spaces that are too small cause frustration in large groups.
Look at the outdoor space too. A large garden with terrace, a barbecue and possibly a fire pit are indispensable for group holidays. A lot of the socialising happens outside, especially in good weather. A pétanque court or table tennis table is a nice extra. And for the evenings: a spacious outdoor seating area, covered or not.
Group properties in the Ardennes: what are the options?
The Ardennes have a wide range of group accommodation. The most popular types are renovated farmhouses and farms, which are often very spacious and have an authentic character. An Ardennes farmhouse with thick stone walls, wooden beams and an enormous open fire is the perfect venue for a sociable group weekend.
Other popular types:
- Small castles and manor houses: for those who want to go all out. There are beautiful small castles for hire in the Ardennes, suitable for 15 to 30 people.
- Large chalets: modern properties with all comforts, swimming pool and wellness facilities for larger groups.
- Holiday estates: complexes with several cottages or separate sleeping wings around a shared centre. Ideal when you want privacy per couple or family while still being together.
- Renovated farmhouses: authentic Ardennes architecture with a modern interior. Often suitable for 10 to 20 people.
Activities for large groups in the Ardennes
The Ardennes offer a wide range of group activities. Whether you are coming with a group of friends, for a family gathering or a corporate group, there is something for everyone.
- Kayaking: on the Lesse and the Ourthe there are kayak hire companies that can handle groups of 20 or more. A classic activity that is always fun.
- Paintball and laser tag: exciting team sports activities that bring groups together. There are several providers in the Ardennes.
- Escape rooms and team building: for corporate groups or those who prefer to play indoors.
- Guided walks: a local guide who takes you through the Ardennes forests and tells you about the history and nature of the region.
- Mountain biking: hire options are plentiful and dedicated mountain bike routes have been laid out.
- Barbecue and campfire: the most sociable evening of the weekend. Make sure you have enough wood and good supplies.
How to organise a group weekend?
Organising a weekend with a large group takes more coordination than you might expect. A few practical tips to make it run smoothly:
- Book early: the best group accommodation in the Ardennes gets booked up quickly. Plan at least three months ahead for popular weekends.
- Divide up the tasks: who does the shopping? Who cooks? Who organises the activities? A clear division of tasks prevents frustration.
- Make a shared shopping list: for a large group it helps to plan the meals in advance and make a list. That way you won't be caught out.
- Check parking facilities: with a large group you will arrive in several cars. Check whether there is sufficient parking at the property.
- Sort out the room allocation in advance: avoid arguments on arrival by discussing the room allocation before you leave.
Group accommodation for large families
Family gatherings in the Ardennes are a beloved Belgian tradition. A large holiday home where the whole family can come together, from grandparents to grandchildren. For families with children, properties with an enclosed garden, playground and swimming pool are particularly valuable. Older family members appreciate a ground-floor bedroom and a comfortable sitting area.
Choose a location that has something for everyone. Quiet walks for the elderly, activities for the children and a good restaurant nearby for a group dinner. The Ardennes tick all these boxes perfectly for a successful family holiday with a large group.
Frequently asked questions
How many people can a group accommodation in the Ardennes hold?
Group accommodation is available for a wide range of group sizes. Smaller group properties are suitable for 10 to 15 people. Larger estates and manor farms can accommodate 20, 30 or even 40 people, each with a communal kitchen and spacious living areas.
How much does group accommodation in the Ardennes cost?
Budget €200 to €800 per night for groups of 10 to 25 people. Per person that is €20 to €40 per night, which works out cheaper than individual hotel rooms. Book as early as possible for popular weekends and holidays.
What are popular activities for groups in the Ardennes?
Kayaking on the Ourthe or the Lesse, quad biking, paintball, escape rooms, mountain bike tours, archery and cookery workshops are popular with groups. Many group properties also have barbecue facilities and outdoor space for team games.
How far in advance should you book group accommodation in the Ardennes?
For popular periods such as Easter, the summer holidays and New Year we recommend booking at least 6 to 12 months in advance. The best group properties fill up quickly. For midweek stays outside holiday periods, booking 2 to 3 months ahead is often still possible.
Looking for group accommodation in the Ardennes?
Browse our range of large holiday homes for groups of 10 to 30 people. Spacious farmhouses, chalets and villas with all the comforts.
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