This short tour explores the forested roads and historic landscapes of Wallonia and the Ardennes. Based in the riverside town of Dinant, the route combines flowing countryside riding with visits to castles, scenic viewpoints, and the legendary Spa-Francorchamps circuit. Quiet roads, dramatic valleys, and a taste of European motorsport history make this a rewarding ride just beyond the Channel.
The OC&RR Wallonia & Ardennes Tour is a compact but deeply rewarding ride through one of Europe’s most underrated motorcycling regions. Just beyond the Channel lies a landscape of forested valleys, winding rivers, historic towns, and smooth, flowing roads that feel purpose-built for two wheels. Based in the beautiful riverside town of Dinant, this tour blends dramatic scenery, motorsport heritage, and centuries of European history into a ride that feels both relaxed and endlessly engaging.
The journey begins with the crossing from Calais into southern Belgium, where the countryside slowly changes from open farmland to the rolling, wooded hills of Wallonia. As the road begins to twist and rise toward the Ardennes, the riding settles into a steady rhythm. By the time Dinant appears beneath its towering limestone cliffs, with the River Meuse winding gently through the centre of town, it’s clear why this region has long been loved by riders who enjoy quiet roads and timeless landscapes.
From Dinant, the next two days explore the wider Ardennes. These roads carry echoes of history, from the forests that once witnessed the winter battles of 1944 to the legendary curves surrounding the Spa-Francorchamps circuit, one of the world’s most iconic race tracks. Castles appear regularly along the route, perched above valleys or hidden deep within the forests, each adding another layer to the character of the ride.
The scenery shifts constantly: deep green forests, dramatic viewpoints above river valleys, medieval fortresses and peaceful rural villages where time seems to move a little slower. One moment you’re riding through quiet countryside, the next you’re standing at a viewpoint looking out across the vast Ardennes landscape.
The final day gently guides riders back toward the Channel, leaving the wooded hills behind as the route returns north through Belgium and into France. It’s a relaxed finish, giving time to reflect on a few days of flowing roads, historic places, and the simple pleasure of riding through a region that rewards those who take the time to explore it.
This tour may be shorter than some of OC&RR’s alpine adventures, but it captures the same spirit, great roads, fascinating history, and the quiet satisfaction of discovering somewhere special on two wheels.
Leaving Calais behind, the road carries you east into Belgium and the rolling landscapes of Wallonia. The scenery gradually changes from open countryside to forested hills as you approach the Ardennes. Your destination is the beautiful riverside town of Dinant, famous as the birthplace of the saxophone. Set beside dramatic cliffs along the River Meuse, it makes the perfect base for the next three nights.
Today explores the wider Ardennes region. The ride passes through landscapes steeped in history, including areas linked to the events of December 1944. The route also takes you past the famous Spa-Francorchamps race circuit, one of the most iconic tracks in motorsport.
Along the way you’ll discover castles scattered across the hills, including Reinhardstein Castle, Clervaux Castle, and Esch-sur-Sûre, each adding its own character to the ride. The roads flow beautifully through forests and valleys, making this a rewarding day of varied riding.
Today’s ride is slightly shorter but packed with variety. One highlight is Circuit Gedinne, a historic road racing circuit that remains open to the public, allowing riders to experience a stretch of motorsport history for themselves.
The route also visits several spectacular viewpoints across the Ardennes landscape, including La Roche and La Faligeotte, before continuing toward historic fortresses and castles such as Fort de Charlemont, Château Fort Montaigle, and Château de Bioul.
It’s a day filled with history, scenery, and quiet roads through one of Belgium’s most beautiful regions.
After breakfast, the route leaves Dinant and heads back toward the Channel. The ride north offers one final stretch of flowing countryside before reaching Calais for your return crossing via ferry or train.
The tour concludes with memories of winding Ardennes roads, historic towns, and a few days spent exploring one of Europe’s most underrated riding regions.
1. Documents: Make sure you have all necessary documents, including your passport, motorcycle license, V5C logbook, insurance certificate, and MOT certificate. If your license is a paper one or issued in certain regions (like Gibraltar, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man), you may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
2. Insurance: Verify that your insurance policy covers riding in Europe. Many policies include basic EU cover, but it’s wise to check for any additional requirements or limitations. You might also want to consider European breakdown cover with repatriation.
3. Helmet Laws: A helmet is mandatory in all EU countries, and it must meet the ECE 22.05 standard. Ensure your helmet is compliant to avoid any issues.
4. High-Visibility Vest: Always carry a high-visibility vest on your bike in case of emergencies.
5. Lane Splitting: Lane splitting (riding between two lanes of traffic) is legal in some countries but not in others. Check the local laws of the countries you’ll be visiting.
6. Local Laws and Customs: Familiarise yourself with the traffic laws and customs of each country you’ll be riding through. This includes speed limits, alcohol limits, and any specific motorcycle regulations.
7. Emergency Equipment: Carry essential emergency equipment such as a first-aid kit, tool kit, and spare parts. It’s also a good idea to have a mobile phone with a local SIM card for emergencies.
8. Planning and Navigation: Plan your route and use a reliable GPS or map. Knowing the local language or having a translation app can also be helpful.
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