Chemin des Sources | Full itinerary

The Chemin des Sources is a new hike that can be followed from the Spa Hautes Fagnes Ardennes tourist office.

This 161 km long route has a difference in altitude of 3,920 metres, the ideal training for all hikers aiming for the Mont Blanc tour! It is divided into 9 stages varying in length from 15 to 24.2 km.

You will be directly immersed in a deep and remarkably preserved nature since the first stage of your journey takes you to discover the springs of the thermal town of Spa. You will cross the fagne, go along the Roannay de Malchamps stream, reach the Coo waterfall to reach the historic centre of Stavelot and its prestigious abbey by following the meanders of the Amblève.

You will then reach Francorchamps where the sound of racing cars will ring in your ears. The walk will take you to the famous Hoëgne walk and the centenary bridge. You will discover the villages of Hockai, Sart or even Jalhay, on the way to the site of the Gileppe and its remarkable dam.

Finally, you will gain height by heading towards Theux and enjoy exceptional views of the Theux window and the medieval castle of Franchimont.

PRACTICAL INFORMATION AND ADVICE FOR HIKERS

In order to approach the Chemin des Sources with peace of mind, you will find below some useful advice on how to best prepare for your long walk. The preparation will focus on several areas: 

PHYSICAL PREPARATION

If you are an experienced hiker, slightly increasing the frequency, length and height of your hikes will suffice.

If you are an occasional hiker or a beginner, it is advisable to go gradually, starting with short hikes of 5 to 6 km, on relatively flat terrain. As you go along, increase the distance by about 10% each time and choose increasingly hilly routes. You should always be able to talk while walking, without being out of breath. Go hiking with your backpack too

THE LIST OF NECESSARY EQUIPMENT

The list of equipment you need to take with you will mainly depend on the type of accommodation you have chosen.

If you are staying in a hotel at the end of the stage, you will be able to hike very light, with a minimum of equipment. 

However, if you sleep in a campsite or intend to bivouac, you will need to bring a larger bag, a tent, sleeping, washing and eating equipment... This is another matter.

The season in which your (long) hike is planned and the weather conditions will also influence the equipment you need to bring.

BACKPACK

The volume depends on the duration and the type of trek (e.g.: day trek R 20-25 litres, multi-day trek in autonomy R 70-80 litres... or even more).

Go for a walk with the rucksack you intend to take with you so that you can learn how to fill it and adjust it to your needs. First a day, then - if possible - several days.

SHOES

Choose waterproof and breathable (Gore-Tex), with a high shaft to support your ankle. Choose them without rubbing points, as if you were buying slippers. "Break them in before your big hike.

SOCKS

Forget cotton and choose socks specifically designed for hiking.

PANTS

Choose water-repellent trousers, reinforced at the knees and buttocks. Long trousers are preferable, even in summer, as they protect you from tick bites.

BODY CLOTHING

Adopt the "three-layer system

1 | Skin tight (= breathable): synthetic or better still merino wool

2 | Thermal layer: fleece or, better still, a down jacket (the best, but more expensive: goose down!)

3 | Waterproof layer: waterproof and breathable jacket (Gore-Tex, Sympatex,...)

Want to know more?

You can find a complete list of equipment at this address: www.spa-hautesfagnes.be

LEARN HOW TO PACK YOUR BAG

Pack only the bare essentials and weigh everything in order to travel light.

Take a waterproof outer bag and a rubbish bag inside.

Bottom area: sleeping

Area near the back: heavy equipment (to avoid the effect of pulling on your shoulders) 

Front zone: light equipment + that which you need to be able to access quickly

Outside" zone (pocket + nets): equipment you need to have access to during the day (compass, map, snacks, etc.).

LEARN TO ORIENTATE YOURSELF

Test the dedicated apps (Cirkwi, SityTrail) before you start.

Learn how to read a map... the batteries of GSM/GPS 

batteries are not immortal...

PRACTICAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE REGION

Where to stay? Where to eat?

Our region has a wide range of accommodation to suit all tastes. 

Campsites, gîtes, rural or unusual accommodation, local, standard or luxury hotels, we are here to advise you according to your wishes.

ou will of course find many restaurants near the Chemin des Sources. You will discover regional cuisine prepared with passion by chefs who love local products.

Finally, along the route, you can discover local producers and taste our local products.

Find all the information on:

www.spa-hautesfagnes.be/chemindessources

House of Tourism of Spa Hautes-Fagnes Ardennes

Rue du Marché 1A - B-4900 Spa

+32 87 79 53 53

info@spa-hautesfagnes.be