The mountain bike circuit of Houffalize

This trail starts in Houffalize and follows the meanders of the Ourthe. It shows a succession of technical routes and fast descents through the Ardennes forest.

Shortly after leaving Houffalize, we reach our first mountainside and with this the tone is set for these pure mountain bike kilometers. At the top, a beautiful descent takes us to the eastern Ourthe.

At the foot of the slope, we follow the national road along a projecting road, where we slow down the pace somewhat due to its narrowness. Suddenly, it becomes difficult to climb. The route of this demanding route swells continuously over hills and depressions.

At the Rensiwez bridge, the route follows the bed of the stream on the other bank. Silently we glide into a forest of shadows, which we leave along a very beautiful road. At this point, the steep path follows the rocks. Behind us, a beautiful landscape is revealed.

Beyond Achouffe, the course becomes a little more manageable. A last panoramic descent brings us back to Houffalize, which basks in a meander of the Ourthe. Well-trained cyclists can still venture onto the black track of the Mountain Bike World Cup. This 4 km circuit has earned Houffalize its reputation.

Good to know! : The mountain bike event of the year: the Roc d'Ardenne, one of the largest mountain bike festivals in Belgium.

Type of route: Difficult roads and paths.

Bike type: Mountain bike only!

Difficulty: A very painful tour with 560 meters of altitude difference at 22km! Houffalize lives up to its reputation. Circuit exclusively reserved for trained athletes.

Children: From +/- 15 years old and well trained.

Departure: Place Janvier 45 at 6660 Houffalize.

Signage: Follow the mountain bike signs of circuit n°6 (green triangle and circles).

Parking: 2 free car parks nearby (Place de l'Eglise and Route de La Roche).

Difficulty: difficult

Duration: 3 hours.