Sightseeing in Durbuy - what to see. Complete travel guide

It would be a mistake to say that the history of Durbuy is rich in various events. Nevertheless, there are some interesting facts about this settlement that are worth mentioning. The history of the settlement started with building a castle in this area. Before the castle, there were no buildings in this area. The building process of the gorgeous construction took place in the 9th century. That being said, Durbuy was first mentioned in the documents in the 11th century. Three centuries later, the settlement officially became a town. This fact gave a boost to the development of this region. The new town got protective walls, a police station, a court, and, of course, the town administration’s building.
The old castle is still considered the main attraction of the town. As soon as you step onto the land of Durbuy, you will immediately notice this spectacular building surrounded by picturesque trees and wonderful forests. This medieval “giant” is the property of the Ursel family. The castle has belonged to the Counts of Ursel since the 18th century. The family settled in the castle soon after the restoration and has lived in it since that time. That is why it is not possible to enter the castle, but the building looks spectacular outside, and attending this landmark is a must for every tourist coming to Durbuy.

It is hard to tell for sure whether this is the biggest topiary park in the world or no. To be precise, there are more than two hundred and fifty different figures in this park. By the way, there are two trees or bushes that look the same. Absolutely each plant has its own shape. A resident of Durbuy, Albert Navez, is the founder of this park. Once, he was working in his garden and decided to cut the bush. This event happened in the 90s of the 20th century. The man liked the result of his work so much that he decided to give new shapes to all trees in the park. The official opening of the park took place in 1997.

Do you like speed? If yes, we have good news for you. The town’s authorities offer carting races, and everyone is welcome to participate in them. Even if you have never tried karting before, you can try to ride this small racing vehicle. The last but not the least, there are many different caves in the area. That is why, if you like exploring new places, don’t forget to check the region’s natural landmarks. After that, end your day in a charming café or a restaurant where local chefs will pamper you with national delicacies and refreshing drinks.

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City tours, excursions and tickets in Durbuy and surroundings
Reference information
Survived castles around Durbuy
♥ Castle 'Deulin Castle' , 6.8 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Xhos Castle' , 15 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Château de Modave' , 15.4 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'La Roche-en-Ardenne Castle' , 20.8 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Jemeppe Castle' , 21.1 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Castle 'Deulin Castle' , 6.8 km from the center. On the map


♥ Castle 'Xhos Castle' , 15 km from the center. On the map


♥ Castle 'Château de Modave' , 15.4 km from the center. On the map


♥ Castle 'La Roche-en-Ardenne Castle' , 20.8 km from the center. On the map


♥ Castle 'Jemeppe Castle' , 21.1 km from the center. On the map


National and city parks around Durbuy
♥ Regional Nature Park 'Ardennes' , 81.1 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'Eifel' , 93.3 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'De Meinweg' , 99.6 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'De Groote Peel' , 110.8 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'Grenspark de Zoom - Kalmthoutse Heide' , 137.8 km from the center. On the map
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♥ Regional Nature Park 'Ardennes' , 81.1 km from the center. On the map


♥ National Park 'Eifel' , 93.3 km from the center. On the map


♥ National Park 'De Meinweg' , 99.6 km from the center. On the map


♥ National Park 'De Groote Peel' , 110.8 km from the center. On the map


♥ National Park 'Grenspark de Zoom - Kalmthoutse Heide' , 137.8 km from the center. On the map


Sights around Durbuy from our guide 'Extreme places on Earth'
Aachen Cathedral
From the series “Top 15 Unesco Sites in Europe”
Check on the map:
Distance from Durbuy center - 64.6 km.
A lot of amazing legends relate to the cathedral. According to one of them, the money for the construction was donated by the Devil himself. In exchange, he wanted to take the soul of the first creature who will come to the finished cathedral. Local residents managed to outwit the devil. When the cathedral was completed, they let a wolf come first. A number of outstanding historical events are associated with the place. Here, 35 kings and 14 queens of the German Empire were enthroned. Today, the Aachen Cathedral is as majestic as hundreds of years ago. Once inside, it’s impossible to look away from artistic colorful stained-glass windows, marble walls and ceilings, incredible painting, and other items of decor. …
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Bonnefanten Museum
From the series “Famous buildings of Postmodern architecture”
Check on the map:
Distance from Durbuy center - 57.1 km.
The spectacular museum building has become a popular landmark for the residents of Maastricht and its guests. The museum is located in a very picturesque area, on the banks of the Meuse River. A small park area is located in front of it. The museum building is located on the same site today, where the building of the Bonnefantin Monastery was located in the 18th century. This monastery was known for taking care of orphaned children. The monastery has fallen into disrepair over the years. Its building was destroyed. A beautiful monument of modern architecture is located in its place today. …
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Search touristic sites on the map of Durbuy

