Dinant's Riverside, Castle and Beer Monastery Expedition

Explore Dinant’s caves, castles, and beer monasteries. Discover medieval architecture, breathtaking views, and Belgian brewing secrets. Book your private tour today.

Duration: 14 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Cave of Lorette-Rochefort - Transport from hotel to Rochefort
  • Cave of Lorette-Rochefort - A captivating underground marvel nestled in the picturesque region of Rochefort, Belgium. Carved out over thousands of years by the gentle yet relentless force of water, this natural wonder offers visitors an enchanting journey into the depths of the Earth.

Illuminated pathways guide your way through a labyrinth of stalactites and stalagmites, formed over centuries as mineral-rich water dripped from the cave ceiling and solidified upon reaching the floor.

Every turn reveals a new marvel of nature’s craftsmanship. Cathedral-like chambers adorned with intricate formations create an otherworldly ambiance, while underground rivers and pools glisten in the soft glow of carefully placed lights.

One of the most awe-inspiring sights within the Cave of Lorette-Rochefort is the Grand Dome, a vast chamber adorned with towering columns of rock reaching towards the ceiling. Here, you can’t help but feel a sense of reverence for the immense power and patience of the natural world.

  • Walzin Castle - Transport to Walzin Castle
  • Walzin Castle - Enjoy a solitary walk amidst the natural beauty surrounding the castle, finding solace in the quietude of nature’s embrace. Take your time to wander the tranquil trails, relishing the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity for introspection. Afterward, settle down for a picnic lunch, savoring the simplicity of the moment and the serenity of your surroundings.
  • Dinant - Nestled within the picturesque Meuse Valley in Belgium lies the enchanting town of Dinant, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. As you approach this charming destination, you’ll be greeted by the iconic silhouette of the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, perched dramatically atop a rocky cliff overlooking the tranquil waters of the river.

Dinant is a town rich in history, with its origins dating back to the Middle Ages. Its strategic location along the river made it a significant trading hub, and remnants of its medieval past can still be seen today in the form of quaint cobblestone streets, ancient fortifications, and historic buildings.

Check the imposing Citadel, which stands sentinel above the town. This fortress has witnessed centuries of history and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. A visit to the Citadel provides a fascinating glimpse into Dinant’s military heritage and offers insight into the town’s strategic importance throughout the ages.

  • Maison Leffe - Maison Leffe is more than just a brewery; it’s a testament to the artistry and tradition of Belgian brewing. Situated in the heart of Dinant, Belgium, Maison Leffe stands as a beacon of quality and heritage in the world of beer.

The history of Maison Leffe dates back to the 12th century when the Abbey of Notre-Dame de Leffe was founded. Monks brewed beer within the abbey walls, not just as a beverage, but as a means of sustaining themselves and their community. Over the centuries, Leffe beer became renowned not only for its exceptional taste but also for its connection to spirituality and craftsmanship.

Today, Maison Leffe continues this legacy, producing a range of iconic Belgian beers that captivate the senses with their depth of flavor and complexity. From the classic Leffe Blonde, with its fruity aroma and subtle bitterness, to the rich and indulgent Leffe Brune, each beer is a testament to the time-honored art of brewing.

  • Chimay - Transport to Chimay
  • L’abbaye Notre-Dame de Scourmont - Nestled amidst the serene landscape of Chimay, Belgium, stands the venerable Abbey of Notre-Dame de Scourmont, a bastion of spiritual solace and rich heritage. This tranquil haven, founded in 1850 by Trappist monks, exudes an aura of profound reverence and timeless devotion.

The Abbey’s origins trace back to a small group of monks who sought to establish a contemplative community dedicated to prayer, work, and hospitality. Over the decades, the Abbey has evolved into a thriving monastic enclave, renowned not only for its spiritual pursuits but also for its renowned Trappist brewery, which produces the world-famous Chimay beers.

Of course, one cannot speak of Notre-Dame de Scourmont without mentioning its renowned brewery, where the monks craft their acclaimed Chimay beers with meticulous care and reverence. The brewery, a source of both sustenance and revenue for the Abbey, stands as a testament to the monks’ commitment to balance and moderation in all things.

  • Chimay - Our dinner plans promise an evening of culinary exploration, as we indulge in the region’s renowned gastronomic delights. From savory dishes crafted with local ingredients to the inviting ambiance of charming eateries, our dining experience in Chimay will be a feast for the senses. With each dish, we’ll embark on a flavorful journey, embracing the rich heritage and flavors of Belgian cuisine.
  • Ghent - Transport to hotel
What's Included
  • Carbonated beverages
  • Bottled water
  • Snacks
  • Lunch
  • Dinner
  • In-vehicle air conditioning
  • All fees and/or taxes
Additional Information

Our adventure begins with an exploration of the Lorette-Rochefort Cave, where ancient geological formations create an otherworldly atmosphere. From there, we ascend to Châteaux Walzin, perched majestically above the scenic River Lesse, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the region’s noble past.

We venture into the charming town of Dinant, where medieval architecture and quaint cobblestone streets lead us on a journey through time.

Our exploration of Belgian traditions takes us next to Maison Leffe, where we uncover the secrets behind the brewing process of one of Belgium’s most celebrated beers.

No visit to Belgium would be complete without a pilgrimage to Chimay Abbey, a serene sanctuary nestled amidst verdant forests and rolling hills. Here, we pause to reflect on the centuries-old traditions of the Trappist monks, whose dedication to prayer and contemplation has shaped the abbey’s peaceful ambiance.

Private tours can be booked after communication.

  • Travel time is included in the total duration
Location
Cave of Lorette-Rochefort
Dreve de Lorette,
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(30 Ratings)
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Viviadventures
Aug 17, 2024
Magical Dinant - Joris shared an unforgettable experience with me by bringing me to amazing hidden locations frequented by locals and even provided excellent catering with local delights. He was also very knowledgeable and I learned so much about local culture from his commentary. He even helped me capture the moments with some great photography. I would highly recommend this highly personalized tour and it was definitely worth the price.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dan_s
Aug 16, 2024
Finding hidden gems in the countryside - I loved this tour. After seeing all the usual towns, it was great to see more of the countryside of Belgium. A beautiful snack by a river and castle where we walked along a river was so picturesque. Then we took a tour of an underground cavern. Be prepared to wear some sneakers or shoes with a grip and climb quite a few stairs. The tour of the caverns was really spectacular, thenquide was a geologist who was incredibly knowledgeable and also spoke 3 languages fluently. Then we went on to drink some Trappist beer and visit a monastery. Joris the guide had lunch all ready for us after the caverns and then took us to a nice dinner later on. Really a wonderful day.
Review provided by Viator
Anked250
Aug 8, 2024
Must-do ! - Exploring the caves in Dinant was an adventure I’ll never forget. The natural formations were spectacular and our guide made the experience both educational and thrilling. A must-do for any nature lover!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Joseph
Jul 18, 2024
Highly recommended - Was a great day and the most unique tour available to see the sites not accessible by train. Highly recommended! Tour guide Joris made sure we were well fed and taken care of all day. Friendly and comfortable. Thank you!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
La_directora
Jul 16, 2024
A beautiful day in southern Belgium - I traveled to Belgium for the first time this month. And by far my best day in that country was the day I spent with Joris from Belgium's Wanderlust. I signed up for the tour as a way of seeing a part of the country I'd be unlikely to navigate on my own. By some luck, I ended up being the only person signed up, and had the most amazing private tour of the southern part of Belgium with Joris. This day is a beautifully curated collection of experiences that represents so much of what makes Belgium beautiful - the landscape, the architecture, the history...and the beer. :) The description of the tour that lists what the various experiences will be doesn't do them justice. From walking through the countryside to get a stunning view of a riverside castle while having coffee, to driving around and seeing so much beautiful landscape, to exploring an incredible cave, to lunch from a picturesque viewpoint, to visiting a brewery and a monastery for delicious Belgian beer - each stop is more wonderful than you think it is. And that is mostly because of Joris. He isn't just a tour guide. He is a gracious host. When he says "we'll have coffee by the river", you might imagine a thermos and paper cup. You might not expect the beautifully laid out picnic of cookies and coffee. Lunch was equally charming and beautiful. And I mean, drinking Rochefort beer and eating Rochefort cheese while looking out over the Rochefort countryside is pretty stunning. So many moments in the day felt like they came straight out of a fairytale. The one thing to be prepared for is if your tour includes the "explore a cave" activity, understand that this means climbing to the bottom of a 67 meter cave...and then climbing back up. It isn't what I expected in my day. But in some ways I'm glad it wasn't what I expected, because I might not have chosen it. And it was a truly unique experience I'm glad I had. My legs were just sore for several days afterward. :) It was entirely worth it. If you are in Belgium and looking for a way to see things you won't see on your own, a tour with Joris is a must-do. I plan to recommend him to other friends who travel in the area, and reach out to him when I have the chance to go back.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Stefaanr2022
Jul 14, 2024
Perfect day - I was looking for a relaxing escape and the Dinant tour delivered. The peaceful environment and slow pace allowed me to unwind completely. It was the perfect break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Christofd60
Jul 14, 2024
Bedankt! - The service on the Dinant tour was top-notch. From the moment we booked, everything was handled smoothly and professionally. The staff was friendly and always ready to help, making our experience seamless and enjoyable.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Tour34720509824
Jul 12, 2024
Back to the roots of beer - The monasteries visited on the Dinant tour were awe-inspiring. Each one was steeped in history and provided a serene atmosphere. The architecture and peaceful surroundings made this a highlight of the trip!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
403jesperv
Jul 12, 2024
Thank you for the great day! - The scenic views on the Dinant tour were absolutely breathtaking. From rolling hills to picturesque riversides, every stop offered a new and stunning perspective of the region. Don't forget your camera!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jpouch
Jul 10, 2024
Amazing sites, beer, and guides - Our entire family, both young and old, enjoyed the experience immensely. Joris was very accommodating and entertaining. The content of the tour was also excellent, and the delicious beer and food flowed. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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up to 8 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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