Orval

Orval Abbey is an exceptional complex with a history of several centuries, which probably began in 1070. In 1251 it was largely destroyed by fire.
It was rebuilt in Romanesque and early Gothic style, but again destroyed in 1637 by the Huguenots. The monks did not give up and the abbey had its hour of glory until the French revolutionaries reduced it to ashes in 1793. It was not until 1926 that the current construction began. It was finished in 1948. The abbey is definitely worth a visit. You can admire the majestic ruins of ancient abbey buildings, but contemporary buildings are also partially accessible, including the impressive abbey church.

DISTANCE
7 km.

TYPE OF ROAD
A mix of village and country roads, paved and very little frequented, alternating paths and forest paths that can become muddy in rainy weather. In this case, you will be more comfortable with rubber boots or at least waterproof shoes. The elevations are not great, but you can not take strollers or wheelchairs.

MARKUP
Briefly the white-red lines of the Grandes Randonnées Ardennes-Eifel trail to Villers-devant-Orval, but the markings are not famous.
During the second part of the journey you follow almost at the finish the yellow-white markings of the Gaume trail which is perfectly marked.

PARKING
From the N88 communication road, which connects Florenville to Virton, there is a lane of several hundred meters for the entrance to the abbey of Orval. Parking slots abound along the way, but empty spaces can become scarce during vancances. Park as close to the entrance as possible.

TOPOGRAPHIC MAP
IGN 70/3-4.

Maison du Tourisme du Pays de la Semois entre Ardenne et Gaume, place Albert Ier, 6820 Florenville
Tel. 061 31 12 29
fax 061 31 32 12,
E-mail: info@semois-tourisme.be
Internet: www.semois-tourisme.be