The Village of Froidfontaine, “the Ballad of Happy People”
A place shaped by nature, tranquillity and history
Located on the foothills of the Ardennes, in the heart of the Geopark, the village of Froidfontaine is one of those peaceful corners where nature, heritage and history come together effortlessly. Its name comes from the Walloon freûde-fontinne, meaning “cold spring” — a reference to the centuries-old spring hidden inside the Marian grotto. According to legend, the site once hosted druid rituals… adding a touch of mystery to the walk.
Between half-timbered houses, old stone farms, meadow-lined paths and wide-open views over the Famenne, the charm quickly sets in. Not far away, the (private) Tanton estate recalls the region’s industrial past and glass-making tradition.
Meeting Thierry Robin, guardian of Walk No. 3
A lover of wide open spaces and a passionate hiker, Thierry Robin has been a trail guardian for nearly ten years. Originally from Wancenne, he has a special bond with Froidfontaine: as a child, he often came here with his father to walk and listen to the roaring of the stags during the rutting season.
Today, Thierry regularly walks route no. 3 with his dog, keeping an attentive eye on the condition of the path, the waymarking and the overall quality of the trail.
If he had to associate this walk with a song, it would undoubtedly be “La balade des gens heureux” by Gérard Lenorman — and it makes perfect sense: anyone who walks here soon finds themselves smiling.
What is a trail guardian?
A trail guardian is a dedicated local volunteer who looks after a waymarked route. They walk the path regularly, report small issues and help keep the trails safe and welcoming. A wonderful way to support walking tourism in Beauraing and keep our network of routes alive.
Walk No. 3: heritage, nature and sweeping landscapes
The Froidfontaine walk begins at the foot of Saint Catherine’s Church. Just a few steps in, the landscape opens up: lovely views over the Famenne, the Marian grotto, the spring, and several traditional half-timbered houses.
The path continues through open pastures and beautiful beech forests, offering an authentic immersion in Ardennes nature. At times, the Wimbe stream flows gently alongside, until the route reaches the Tanton estate. The loop then leads back to the village centre, in a calm, rural atmosphere that defines this varied and refreshing walk.
Practical Information — Walk No. 3: Froidfontaine
- Start: Froidfontaine Church, Rue de Bazai – 5570 Froidfontaine (Beauraing)
- Distance: 9.9 km (loop)
- Duration: approx. 3 hours
- Waymarking: Green – No. 3
- Elevation gain: +225 m
- Hunting: Check dates
- Walking map: €8 at the Tourist Office or order here or download free on CIRKWI.
