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Belgium

Dinant

The jewel of Belgium's Wallonia region, Dinant lies along the turquoise waters of the River Meuse and is located around 3 hours away from Calais when you travel by car.

This picturesque city offers a real fairy tale escape, and you’ll love exploring its lush green valleys and majestic fortresses. Also celebrated as an outdoor paradise, due to its great hiking, quad biking, and caving opportunities, you'll never be short of things to do in Dinant.

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DVR

Dover

CQF

Calais

Morning	02:00	04:25	06:50	09:15
Midday	11:40
Afternoon	14:05	16:30
Evening	18:55	21:15	23:40

Book from £ 126

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Dinant landmarks
2
Head underground
3
Adventures in Dinant
4
Relax and unwind

Things to do in Dinant

Dinant landmarks Due to its location on the River Meuse, Dinant was often the site of historical battles. As a result, the town is home to a number of fascinating historical fortifications and landmarks for you to discover.

Overlooking the city, the Citadelle de Dinant is an 11th century fortress that was rebuilt in 1815. If you're feeling active, you can climb the 405 steps up the cliff to its summit to be rewarded with amazing views. If that sounds a bit too intense, don't worry - you can skip the stairs and take the nearby cable car instead.

Elsewhere, Dinant's main bridge plays homage to Charles de Gaulle, the French Republic president who was shot during a major battle in the region in 1914. Today, Charles de Gaulle Bridge is adorned with multicoloured saxophones, a tribute to the instrument's inventor and another famous former resident of Dinant, Adolphe Sax.

Head underground

Although Dinant is a beautiful city above ground, we suggest heading underground while you are there and exploring the Grotte la Merveilleuse, one of Belgium’s most stunning caves.

Located just 700 metres from the train station, this attraction is full of striking white stalactites and waterfalls, plus coloured rocks that make the cave feel magical. You can take a tour that lasts around an hour where you will find out lots of information about the cave which is sure to interest you.

Adventures in Dinant

One of the best things to do in Dinant is to find adventure in one of its many parks. Parc de Furfooz is a woodland park just 15 minutes' drive from the centre, with hidden caves, log cabins, and even a Roman bath found along its riverside trail.

Another way to take in the region's beautiful flora and fauna is by boat. Hiring a kayak is especially great for kids, as the River Lesse's typically still waters offer plain sailing for young or tired legs.

For an epic adventure, head to Dinant Aventure, an activity park with a difference along the Rue de la Carrière. Built on an old quarry, there is something for everyone here.

If you've got a head for heights, try the Ardennes challenge which boasts the highest and longest rope bridge in Belgium, or try the Alpine challenge, which has an incredible zip line over the wonderful River Meuse valley.

Relax and unwind

Surrounded by natural beauty, Dinant is the perfect place for a relaxing break, especially if you visit one of the city’s wellness centres.

Built upon a former convent, Les Bains de Dinant combines panoramic views of the city with alternative spa treatments. Complete with Roman swimming pool, salt-brick sauna, UV shower, and ice fall, this spa is inspired by the five elements: water, wood, earth, fire, and metal.

For landscape reminiscent of a fairy tale, where you can unwind on a leisurely walk, head to the De Walzin Castle, which sits along the River Lesse on the outskirts of the city and boasts a truly beautiful setting that is sure to relax you.

If these things to do in Dinant have inspired you to plan a trip to this exciting city, book your Dover to Calais crossing today and get ready to explore!