Getting to the national park - ESEM National Park

Crossing the National Park on foot or by bike? A highly recommended experience. Also discover the options for public transport and shared mobility. In the long term, the National Park is working to strengthen soft and active mobility solutions.

By bike

By bike: the northern crossing

Enjoy the gentle landscape of the Fagne between Momignies (discovery point 2) and Mariembourg, passing through Virelles (discovery point 1) or taking a detour to the Lacs de l’Eau d'Heure (discovery point 3). The Couvin and Mariembourg stations provide connections to Charleroi and the rest of Belgium. As you go, enjoy the purpose-built cycle paths.

RAVeL 156 Momignies - Mariembourg
‘Mille bornes’ cycling node network
Bike rental available in Virelles, Macon and at the Lacs de l’Eau d'Heure.

Combine with the train via rail connections: NMBS/SNCB stations in Couvin and Mariembourg; tourist steam train between Mariembourg and Treignes, passing through Olloy and Vierves-sur-Viroin.

Hiking

Hiking: the southern crossing

For a long-distance immersion into the National Park’s wildest areas, hike through the Ardennes and the Calestienne through hills and valleys, between Macon (discovery point 2) and Treignes (discovery point 6), passing through Couvin (discovery point 4) and Vierves-sur-Viroin (discovery point 5).

GR hiking trails: follow sections 1 and 5 of the Grande Traversée de la Forêt du Pays de Chimay (GTFPC), then the GR 125.

Combine with the train via rail connections: NMBS/SNCB stations in Couvin and Mariembourg; tourist steam train between Mariembourg and Treignes, passing through Olloy and Vierves-sur-Viroin.

Other marked walks and loops

Wherever you are in the National Park, you can set out to discover nature and the landscapes. Numerous trails and cycling paths allow you to venture out from our six discovery points, which are the perfect starting points for exploring the heart of the National Park.

In 2026, a harmonised trail marking system will be implemented along 700 km of trails, based on the principle of walking nodes. Until then, we invite you to consult the local tourist offices.

Public transport

Public transport and shared mobility

Together with its partners and the competent authorities, the National Park supports the strengthening of public transport services within and around the Park. Shared mobility tools and bike rental solutions are also being developed.