Herstal(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

The best area to stay in Herve is the historic town center, where you can find charming accommodations like Hotel de la Paix, a boutique hotel with elegant 19th-century architecture and modern amenities. Located just steps from the Basilique Notre-Dame, it offers easy access to local landmarks and cozy dining spots such as Le Petit Château, known for its authentic Belgian beef stew.

For a more secluded experience, consider Les Jardins du Château, a converted castle turned boutique guesthouse nestled in peaceful gardens. This unique stay provides intimate settings ideal for couples or families seeking a tranquil escape. Both locations offer excellent access to the cultural heart of Herve and the surrounding Walloon countryside.

In Herve, visitors should not miss the annual Fête de la Vierge, a vibrant summer festival featuring processions, craft markets, and traditional Walloon music. Held at the foot of the Château de Herve, this event celebrates local heritage and draws crowds from across Wallonia.

Explore the Château de Herve’s small museum, showcasing medieval weapons, regional art, and historical artifacts that illustrate the area’s rich past. For a hands-on experience, join a chocolate-making workshop at a local farm—learn to craft authentic Belgian dark chocolate using traditional molds. Or visit L'Épicerie du Val, a family-run shop offering artisanal goat cheese, homemade jams, and regional delicacies. These immersive activities offer a true taste of Walloon culture.

Yes, several hotels in Herve are highly family-friendly. Hotel de la Paix offers spacious family rooms equipped with child-safe amenities, including baby-proofing features and complimentary toiletries. The hotel is located near a scenic park and walking trails, perfect for kids to explore safely.

Les Jardins du Château provides private garden spaces with swings and outdoor play areas, surrounded by lush greenery—ideal for children to enjoy nature. Staff can also assist with arranging family-friendly tours, such as interactive exhibitions at the Château de Herve. With quiet surroundings, attentive service, and child-centered facilities, these accommodations ensure a comfortable and memorable stay for families.

Top historical landmarks in Herve include the Basilique Notre-Dame, a 15th-century Gothic church renowned for its stunning stained-glass windows and marble altar, offering insight into Walloon religious artistry. Nearby, the Château de Herve, originally a 12th-century noble estate, now serves as a cultural center and museum housing medieval armor, ancient maps, and handwritten manuscripts.

The Old Town cobbled streets preserve 18th-century architecture, with many facades still displaying original carvings and ironwork gates. Visitors can join guided walks at the Town Hall Square, where local historians share stories of how Herve evolved from a feudal stronghold into a cultural hub. Together, these sites reflect the town’s layered history and enduring heritage.

Must-try dishes in Herve include Carbonade Flamande, a rich beef stew slow-cooked in local beer, traditionally served with mashed potatoes. It’s a staple at family-run restaurants like Le Petit Château.

Don’t miss Herve chocolate, crafted in small batches at Chocolaterie Hervé, where traditional molds create dark chocolates infused with nuts and vanilla. Pair them with Sidre de Liège, a crisp apple cider made from regional orchards.

Also try Pain de Ferme, a rustic farmhouse bread baked from locally grown wheat, known for its crunchy crust and soft interior. These flavors represent the heart of Walloon cuisine, rooted in agriculture and family traditions.

The best time to visit Herve is from April to September, when the weather is mild and ideal for exploring the cobblestone streets and castle gardens. Spring brings cherry blossoms along the Liège Canal, while autumn paints the town in golden hues, creating a picturesque setting.

Highlight events include the Fête de la Vierge in June and the Harvest Festival in September, both featuring flower-decorated streets, live performances, and limited-edition local dishes. The pleasant climate also makes indoor visits to the Basilique Notre-Dame and Château de Herve more enjoyable. Avoid winter months due to damp weather and fewer public activities, ensuring a richer travel experience during peak season.