This Dutch speaking region is famed for the majestic beauty of Bruges and the bloody history around Ypres
Camping in Belgium
31 campsites in Belgium for Lake/River Swim
Campsite Listing Google Map
The following consent is required:
Tracking & performance, Targeting & advertising.
A friendly and very well-run site, Camping Sandaya Parc la Clusure is highly recommended. Set in a river valley in the lovely wooded uplands of the Ardennes, known as the l’Homme Valley touring area, the site has around 500 large, marked, grassy pitches (around 250 for touring). All have access to electricity, cable TV and water taps, mostly in avenues off a central, tarmac road. There is some noise from the nearby railway. There is a very pleasant riverside walk; the river is shallow in summer and popular with children (caution in winter). The site’s heated swimming pool and children’s pool have a poolside bar and terrace. You will also find over 200 rental accommodations.
In a convenient location just off the A10 motorway and close to Bruges, this site is in two distinct areas divided by an access road. The main part of the site offers a lake with a marked off swimming area, a sandy beach, water slides and boating (no fishing). The touring section has 137 large pitches on flat grass separated by well trimmed hedges; all have electricity and access to water and drainage. Some leisure facilities for children are provided on this part of the site, along with a spacious bar and snack bar with takeaway (seasonal). The main site with all the privately owned mobile homes is closer to the lake, so has most of the amenities. These include the main reception building, restaurants, bar, minimarket, and sports facilities.
Camping De Chênefleur is an excellent family run site situated beside the Semois river, where the shallow water provides lots of opportunities for traditional camping fun in the summer. With a total of 223 pitches (196 for touring), it would make an ideal site for a stopover or equally for a more extended stay. It is attractively laid out in an informal, park-like style with 6A electricity available to all pitches. Hedges separate some, others are arranged in more open space, and a few are available along the river bank.
A large family holiday site with 900 individual pitches, Goolderheide has been owned and operated by the same family for many years and has an excellent pool complex and playgrounds. There are many seasonal and rental units, plus around 250 touring pitches with 6/10/16A electricity, all in a forest setting. The pitches are of variable size and access roads are quite narrow. The outdoor pool complex has two large pools (one of Olympic size), a slide and a paddling pool. There is also a fishing lake, and a lake with a small sandy beach. An enormous area is devoted to a comprehensive play area with a vast range of equipment.
Aux Sources De Lescheret is a small natural campsite with modern facilities, situated in a beautiful natural park in the South Belgian Ardennes/Gaume at 18km from Bastogne. They feature lots of greenery and three spring lakes for swimming, playing and fishing during hot summer days. The site remains relatively quiet during busy periodsand has spacious pitches. A playground with a trampoline and table tennis are available for the children, and there are hundreds of kilometres of walking and cycling trails from the site and in the surrounding area. There is much to do within a 1-hour drive, including kayaking and climbing. Abbeys, castles, caves, churches and museums are nearby, as are day trips to France, Luxembourg or Germany. Wooden wigwams, tent houses, tents and retro caravans are available for rent.
Escape to the heart of the Ardennes at Huttopia Vallée de la Semois Campsite. Located in the stunning Vallée de la Semois National Park, this idyllic retreat offers the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Explore ancient forests, discover historic castles, or kayak along the crystal-clear Semois River. On-site, there are 180 pitches with 6-Amp electric hook-up points available. You can choose from various pitches, and many come with river views.
The Campine is an area covering three quarters of the Province of Antwerp, noted for its nature reserves, pine forests, meadows and streams and is ideal for walking and cycling, while Turnhout itself is an interesting old town. Baalse Hei, a long established, friendly site, has 469 pitches including a separate touring area of 71 large grass pitches (all with 16A electricity, TV connections and shared water point), thoughtfully developed with trees and bushes. Cars are parked away from, but near the pitches. Large motorhomes can be accommodated (phone first to check availability). There is also accommodation to rent.
This attractive, quietly located holiday site has 494 shady pitches, of which 206 (all with 10A Europlug electricity) are for touring units. The site has a Mediterranean feel and is set on sandy soil among pine trees and rhododendrons and arranged around a large lake.
Maintained to very high standards, this site is set in a beautiful wooded valley bordering the Ourthe river. Open all year, the site is located on the outskirts of the attractive small town of La Roche-en-Ardenne, in an area understandably popular with tourists. The site is large with 587 grass pitches (min. 100 sq.m), of which 290 are for touring units. The pitches are on level ground, and all have 10/16A electricity and water connections. Amenities on-site include a well-stocked shop, a bar, a restaurant and takeaway food. In the woods and rivers close by, there are plenty of opportunities for walking, mountain biking, rafting and canoeing. For children, there is a large adventure playground which is very popular, and during the summer entertainment programmes are organised.
De Binnenvaart is a well-equipped family site north of Hasselt, open all year. This is a very well equipped holiday centre with a good range of leisure amenities. The site has been developed alongside a small lake, with its own sandy beach, and is surrounded by woodland. Of the 180 pitches, 34 are for touring, all are of a good size and equipped with electricity (16A Europlug). Many pitches here are reserved all year. The site is part of the same group as BE0792 (Camping Zavelbos) and BE0780 (Camping Wilhelm Tell) both of which are nearby, and guests are able to use amenities at these sites too.
This large, attractive site is situated alongside the Bocholt-Herentals canal and the Lommel yacht marina. It has 800 pitches of which 250 are for touring units. Each pitch has 10A electricity, water and drainage. The site fronts onto a large lake with a safe beach and there are three smaller lakes within the site, one of which is used for fishing (well stocked but all fish must be returned). There is an Olympic-size, outdoor pool with a large slide and a small pool for children (not supervised). Several good quality play areas are spread throughout the site. This site is ideal for relaxing or enjoying the canal and other water-based activities.
Few campsites are in sole possession of an island, and when that island lies in a beautiful valley flanked by steep slopes carpeted with trees, the site is likely to be something special. Camping Ile de Faigneul is! This peaceful site, a real family campsite in summer, is surrounded by the River Semois and is near the small village of Poupehan in the picturesque Belgian Ardennes and close to the French border.
This delightful site lies about 2 km. from the town centre. It is on low lying, level grass, bordered by a river, with trees and shrubs dotted around the 87 pitches. One corner of the site is particularly secluded, but the whole place has the feel of a peaceful garden. There is unfenced water on site and a footbridge over the river. The attractive main building houses reception, and a pleasant bistro and with a friendly, family atmosphere. The site no longer accepts tourers and offers glamping accommodation only.
This attractive and well cared for site would suit families with younger children. Situated in a forest it has 478 pitches of which 368 are for touring units. The pitches are large and laid out in avenues with plenty of shade and all have 10A electricity, water and drainage. At the centre of the site is a large, man-made lake surrounded by sand which is safe for children. A good sub-tropical style pool complex offers a range of slides and water based activities. With a range of activities on offer there is little need to leave the site. There is a large supermarket.
La Semois is an attractive family site, located on the banks of the Semois river in the south of the Belgian Ardennes. This is a tranquil spot and an ideal base for walking, mountain biking and canoeing. The 110 touring pitches are grassy with good shade, but not always level. They are unmarked, but all have 10A electricity. Motorised vehicles are parked at the site entrance to create a tranquil and safe environment. A shallow brook runs through the site and forms a popular play area for children, along with a well equipped playground. The site is most suited to tents and small motorhomes as the entry road is narrow and steep.
This is a large and very lively site situated around a large, artificial lake which also serves as the site swimming pool. The campsite is targeted at a family clientele. Large pitches are spread throughout the site, with the 126 for touring which are separated from around 500 seasonal and rental units. The pitches are on grass and all have 6A electricity and water. Dogs are officially not accepted but when we visited there were many dogs on the site. Two water slides run into the large artificial lake (not fenced and unsuitable for young children). The site is within the national park, in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Although large, it is geared towards families and is ideal for those with younger children.
With a friendly atmosphere, Camping Tonny is an attractive, small campsite in a pleasant valley by the River Ourthe. A family site, there are 75 grass touring pitches, with wooden chalet buildings giving a Tirolean feel. The pitches (80-100 sq.m) are separated by small shrubs and fir trees, 4/6A electricity is available. Cars are parked away from the units and there is a separate meadow for tents.
Camping De Gavers is a modern, well organised holiday site in a peaceful location adjacent to a large sports complex, about 5 km. outside Geraardsbergen. A busy site in season, there is good security and a card-operated barrier. Most of the 428 grassy, level pitches are taken by seasonal pitches, but some 70 are left for touring units. Pitches are arranged on either side of surfaced access roads with some hedges and a few trees to provide shade in parts, with electricity available to all (long cables may be required). The site offers an extensive range of sporting activities and a full entertainment programme over a long season.
Resort De Kempen offers something for everyone: a holiday environment for all age groups, with nothing lacking for the discerning holidaymaker. Of the 228 touring pitches, 25 are used by a tour operator. All the pitches have a fresh water tap, waste water disposal and 6A electricity connection. The main attraction is an indoor pool complex with a central swirl-pool, two shallow pools for toddlers, a long water flume, a jacuzzi and sun beds (cheaper for campers). There is provision for wheelchair users. A retro tavern, restaurant and snack bar overlook the lake with its beach.
Located in one of the most beautiful valleys in the heart of the Ardennes, le Vieux Moulin has 183 pitches and, although there are 127 long stay units at the far end of the site, the 60 touring pitches do have their own space. Some are separated by hedges, others for tents and smaller units are more open, all are on grass, and there are 50 electricity hook-ups (6A). The 19th-century watermill has been owned and operated by the owner’s family for many years, but has now been converted into a small hotel and a fascinating mill museum.
No campsites match your search terms.
Belgium
A small country divided into three regions, Flanders in the north, Wallonia in the south and Brussels, the capital. Belgium is rich in scenic countryside, culture and history, notably the great forest of Ardennes, the historic cities of Bruges and Ghent and the western coastline with its sandy beaches.
Belgium offers some of Europe’s most picturesque scenery: ancient towns, unspoilt countryside, forested hills. And, yes, there is plenty of beer, waffles and chocolate, which in Belgium all count as ‘cultural interest’. Not to mention its comic book heritage (think Tintin but also a whole lot more, on an industrial scale).
Belgium is a great base from which to explore the medieval towns, the charming byways and the big-name historical sites like Waterloo and the monuments of World War One.
Above all, it’s a place to linger and get to know. All too often, tourists pass through, hurrying on their way north to the Netherlands and beyond or south into France. Belgium deserves more attention than that, and those who do linger and explore will be rewarded with superb landscapes and uncrowded hot spots.
FLANDERS
Flanders
Dutch-speaking Flanders is largely flat like the neighbouring Netherlands and is studded by three of Belgium’s most famous cities.
Antwerp is home to the dramatic Renaissance Town Hall, the stunning 16th century Grote Markt (Market Square) and the huge port. It is also the world’s epicentre of diamond trading and cutting.
Bruges with its network of canals and especially its famous 83m Belfort Tower, dating from 1240, is another historic Belgian jewel. The magnificent market square and cloth hall (Lakenhalle) are must-see places. Quite simply, Bruges is Europe’s best preserved medieval city, a labyrinth of cobbled streets linking wide open squares and crisscrossed by a network of willow-lined canals.
Aside from the museums and galleries, there are the obvious delights of the famous Bruges chocolate shops. In times past Ghent was the 4th largest city in Europe. Plenty of historic buildings remain including the 12th century Castle of the Counts, complete with crenellated towers, moat and a dungeon. Among its remarkably well preserved medieval architectural gems are St Bravo’s cathedral, with origins dating back to 942 and artwork by van Eyck and Rubens.
The safe, sandy beaches on the west coast run for forty miles. The cosmopolitan resort of Ostend with its yacht basin and harbour offers year-round attractions including a carnival weekend and a Christmas market, as well as myriad seafood restaurants.
WALLONIA
Wallonia
French-speaking Wallonia is the picturesque southern region that incorporates rustic villages nestled in the undulating verdant countryside.
Popular with nature lovers and walkers who enjoy exploring the many castles and forts, the Belgian Ardennes are a major attraction for walkers and outdoors enthusiasts. Here the landscape is interlaced with rivers for kayaking, underground caves for exploring and handy slopes for occasional skiing in the whitest of winters.
Durbuy is one of the most beautiful villages in the Ardennes – it’s like stepping back in time as you stroll the 14th-century streets around the castle, pausing to admire the tiny brewery and Europe’s largest topiary garden.
The safe, sandy beaches on the west coast run for more than sixty kilometres. Here lies Ostend, a popular seaside resort with an eight kilometre long beach and a promenade coupled with a bustling harbour and shops.
Wallonia’s wild and wooded Ardennes region stretches down into Luxembourg and is a lovely quiet corner with a sprinkling of country towns. One of the most appealing of these is Chimay, which has a ruined medieval castle and nature reserve nearby. Medieval Tournai and Mons, with its magnificent central square and a fascinating medieval quarter, are historical gems worthy of a visit.
The dramatic fortress town of Namur is the region’s capital, at the head of the rivers Meuse and Sambre.
BRUSSELS
Brussels
Brussels is at the very heart of Europe and doubles as the capital of the European Union. A multi-cultural and multi-lingual city full of remarkable monuments, interesting museums and highly acclaimed restaurants. There’s a host of world-class sites. The Grande Place is sometimes referred to as the most beautiful square in the world – its Gothic town hall is stunning. The Royal Palace is bigger than Buckingham Palace. The Law Courts – inspired by the temples of ancient Egypt. The European Parliament is huge and reeks of a big budget ‘grand projet’ - the scene of so much European legislation.
BATTLEFIELDS
Battlefields
Waterloo - Just 18km south of Brussels, Waterloo was the scene of Napoleon’s defeat by the Duke of Wellington and the Prussians on 18 June 1815. There are plenty of museums but little of tangible evidence remains. The 40m high Lion’s Mound was created shortly after the battle as a memorial.
Ypres - This was the scene of some of the bloodiest fighting during the Great War 1914-1918. The city was virtually destroyed with 300,000 Allied soldiers killed preventing the Germans reaching the strategically important port of Calais. The Cloth Hall was rebuilt and today houses the In Flanders Fields Museum.
BELGIAN BEER
Belgian beer
One essential while camping in Belgium is a cold Belgian beer. Whether you sample this delight over lunch or after a long day exploring, whether you choose a blonde ale or a Flemish red, it’s one of the simple pleasures you mustn’t miss. There are at least 1,100 so stop in a local café to taste a beer or two and watch the world go by.
BEGIAN CUISINE
Belgian cuisine
Belgian cuisine is a diverse mix of influences from its neighboring countries, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, as well as its own unique regional traditions. It is known for its hearty dishes, made with fresh, seasonal ingredients, as well as its delicious desserts and chocolates.
One of the most iconic Belgian dishes is moules frites, or mussels with fries. This simple but delicious dish is made with fresh mussels, cooked in a variety of ways, and served with a side of crispy, double-fried fries. It is a popular dish all over Belgium, and can be found at most restaurants and cafes.
Another Belgian classic is flemish stew, a hearty stew made with beef, onions, beer, and herbs. It is typically served with a side of bread or fries.
Other popular Belgian dishes include:
- Waterzooi: A creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and herbs.
- Stoemp: A mashed potato dish with various additions, such as sausage, onions, or carrots.
- Carbonnade flamande: A beef stew made with beer and onions.
- Chicons au gratin: Belgian endives wrapped in ham and béchamel sauce, and baked in the oven.
- Boulets à la liégeoise: Meatballs made with pork, beef, and onions, and served with a sweet and sour sauce.
- Waffles: Belgian waffles are light and fluffy, and can be eaten sweet or savory. They are often served with fresh fruit, chocolate, or whipped cream.
Belgium is also known for its delicious chocolate. There are many chocolatiers in Belgium, each with their own unique recipes. Some of the most popular Belgian chocolates include pralines, truffles, and chocolate bars. With 220,000 tonnes produced annually, Belgians have a sweet tooth.
BELGIUM AT A GLANCE
Belgium at a glance
Capital: Brussels
Population: 11 million
Climate: Temperate climate similar to Britain.
Language: There are three official languages. French is spoken in the south, Flemish in the north, and German is the predominant language in the eastern provinces.
Telephone: The country code is 00 32.
Currency: The Euro (€).
Banks: Mon-Fri 09.00-15.30. Some banks open Sat 09.00-12.00.
Shops: Mon-Sat 09.00-17.30/18.00 – later on Thurs/Fri; closed Sundays.
Public Holidays:
- 1 January: New Year’s Day
- Easter Monday, Ascension Day (40 days after Easter), Whit Monday – the seventh Monday after Easter, also known as Pentecost Monday
- 1 May: Labor Day
- 21 July: Belgium National Day (Belgian Independence Day) – commemorates the day Leopold I took the constitutional oath as the first King of Belgium in 1831
- 15 August: Assumption Day (Assumption of Mary)
- 1 November: All Saints’ Day – the following day is not a public holiday
- 11 November: Armistice Day
- 25 December: Christmas Day
Motoring: For cars with a caravan or trailer, motorways are toll-free except for the Liefenshoek Tunnel in Antwerp. The maximum permitted overall length of a vehicle/trailer or caravan combination is 18 m. Blue Zone parking areas exist in Brussels, Ostend, Bruges, Liège, Antwerp and Gent. Parking discs can be obtained from police stations, garages, and some shops.