Habay – discover Gallo-Roman history and trails

Habay combines impressive traces of its Gallo-Roman past with hiking trails, waterscapes and special excursion destinations. Those planning a trip can choose between cultural discoveries, nature observation and routes of varying lengths. Different types of experiences and route lengths open up various possibilities for planning a trip, without every day having to look the same.

Gallo-Roman history in Mageroy

One central cultural and historical focus is Mageroy. The archaeological site is of great importance to Gallo-Roman archaeology in Belgium. The Gallo-Roman villa of Mageroy was inhabited almost continuously from the first half of the 1st century AD until the second half of the 4th century. This long period makes the site an impressive point of reference for anyone interested in life and history in antiquity.

The annual Fêtes romaines de Mageroy also continue this focus in an engaging way. The programme includes various Roman re-enactments as well as a tasting of Roman cuisine. The event thus combines historical topics with a sensory approach: alongside looking back at the past, shared experiences are also central. Anyone wishing to plan their trip around such an event should schedule the respective date separately.

Chapels, forges and the Trapperie landscape

The cultural exploration of Habay includes the Chapelle Notre-Dame de Luxembourg de Habay. Together with its three linden trees, it was placed under protection on 6 June 1984 by the Commission Royale des Monuments sites et fouilles. The chapel is also dedicated to Saint Hubert. Details like these give a walk a historical connection without limiting the visit to a single building.

At the Château de la Trapperie, Herman Trappé, a former mayor of Liège, received permission in 1613 to build a forge on the banks of the Rulles. Access to the Château de la Trapperie is prohibited; the building is visible only from marked hiking trails. The cascade ponds visible today near the Trapperie were created to regulate the flow of the Rulles and ensure the proper operation of the facilities.

Hiking trails for different daily itineraries

Several routes allow you to shape your stay according to your preferred pace and interests. The marked Mageroy sound walk is an 8 km circular route with a walking time of approximately two hours. It combines nature, cultural heritage and audio stories between the Ardennes and Gaume. The approximate walking time and circular route provide clear guidance for planning the day without tying the excursion to a specific sightseeing programme.

Those looking for a longer route for hiking or mountain biking can choose the 15 km chemin du Harnussiau. On this route, you will discover Étang Harnussiau in Habay-la-Vieille. For a shorter day of hiking, the 6 km Promenade de Flanlive is suitable; it leads towards Domaine de la Trapperie. The different route lengths make it easier to choose excursions suited to your own interests and the time available.

Nature observation and historical excursions

At Terra Asinienne, visitors can discover animals with the help of information panels and QR codes. These include, among others, the great crested newt, the freshwater pearl mussel, the sand martin, the black stork, the raccoon dog and the common frog. The panels and QR codes provide an explanatory framework for observing nature and turn the stay into a discovery tour covering several themes.

The Asinerie de l'O also offers a historical excursion into the Vallée des Lacs lasting from two hours to a full day. The possible duration therefore ranges from a manageable time slot to a more extensive day programme. When choosing a holiday apartment or holiday home in Habay, you can therefore consider whether you would primarily like to include cultural destinations or longer activities in your travel plans. You can also find further travel ideas in Anlier, Léglise, Bastnach, Hotton, Neufchâteau, Bertogne, Bouillon and Herbeumont.

For the broader travel overview: Luxembourg.