Romantic Weekend Away in Belgium

What makes a stay truly romantic?

A romantic weekend is not just about the property, it is about the whole experience. Privacy is the key word: a secluded location, far from neighbours and busy campsites, where you can be together undisturbed. An open fire crackling in the evening. A terrace overlooking forest or hills. A jacuzzi or hot tub under the stars.

The property does not need to be enormous. A cosy chalet for two with a high standard of finish is far more romantic than a spacious but impersonal villa. Look for details such as atmospheric lighting, a good bed with quality bedlinen and a terrace that is actually usable. Those details make all the difference.

Romantic destinations in the Ardennes

The Ardennes are the perfect romantic destination for many Belgian couples. The combination of vast forests, winding rivers and picturesque villages creates the ideal setting. Around Bouillon, Durbuy and Vresse-sur-Semois you will find beautiful small chalets and farmhouses specially set up for couples.

A walk along the Semois in the early morning, followed by a leisurely breakfast in your holiday home. In the afternoon you explore the medieval castle of Bouillon or sample the local beers. In the evening a candlelit dinner at a regional restaurant before heading home for an evening in the jacuzzi. That is what a perfect romantic weekend looks like.

Romantic accommodation for two

For a romantic stay, some types of holiday home lend themselves better than others. A small chalet or cottage for two with all comforts is the classic choice. But a treehouse or tiny house in nature can also be very romantic. It is all about the atmosphere and the location.

Features of a good romantic holiday home:

• Secluded location, no neighbours five metres away
• Open fire or wood burner for cosiness
• Jacuzzi or hot tub on a private terrace
• Good bed with quality bedlinen
• Terrace or veranda with a view
• Atmospheric lighting inside and outside

Seasonal tips for a romantic weekend

Every season has its charm for a romantic weekend away in Belgium. In spring nature is at its most beautiful: blossoming fruit trees in the Flemish Ardennes and fresh green forests in the Ardennes. Summer is busy but offers long, warm evenings on the terrace. Autumn has spectacular colours and quiet after the tourist season. Winter may be the most romantic: a crackling fire, snow outside and hot chocolate.

Want a truly romantic stay? Book outside the school holidays. In November, February or the quiet weekends of March and April, prices are lower and it is much quieter. You almost have nature to yourselves.

Tips to make your stay extra special

• Order a welcome package: many hosts offer the option of having a bottle of cava or champagne, chocolates or flowers ready and waiting.
• Book a restaurant in advance: the best restaurants in the Ardennes and on the coast fill up quickly. Book at least a week ahead.
• Bring breakfast with you: a leisurely breakfast in your own holiday home, without rushing, is one of the small pleasures of a weekend away. Pack good coffee, freshly baked bread and cheese.
• Also plan to do nothing: the best romantic weekends are the ones where you have nothing to do. Just be lazy, eat well and enjoy each other's company.
• Put your phone away: make a conscious agreement to be on your phone less. You are there for each other, not for social media.

A romantic weekend in the city

Nature is not everyone's ideal romantic backdrop. Bruges, Ghent and Liège are also excellent destinations for a romantic city weekend. A holiday home or city apartment in the old town centre, within walking distance of restaurants and sights. Bruges is the most romantic: the canals, medieval buildings and cosy cafés create a fairytale atmosphere.