Samson (Rivière) - Belgique - Affluent de la Meuse walks

This walk alternates between forests and countryside in the 'Fête de Mai' area of the Namur Condroz. The route allows you to discover some of the works of art created over time since the beginning of the 21st century. You can admire the works 'Mange-Bois', 'Cathédrale de Lumière', 'Je suis furieux', 'Parle Papote Chhhuuuuut', 'Cairn de Feu' and 'Serpon-Dragent'.

"La Fête de Mai in Gesves is a wonderful artistic and human adventure in a rural setting. In 2001, nature and art lovers came up with a bold project: to invite artists from all over the world to create works of art in natural materials in the countryside. The May Festival is now 25 years old! In 25 years, our landscape has been enriched, in Gesves alone, by 136 works of land art. Some have returned to nature, while others still stand proudly for the enjoyment of hikers."Quote from Christian Beelaert, president of Vagabond'art asbl. All these works of art are linked by hiking trails that are accessible all year round.

Marked horse riding trail no. 2 with orange arc-shaped markers This trail takes you on a journey of discovery through the magnificent countryside around Bonneville, Thon-Samson and Maizeret. Please note that the paths are often stony, so bring horse shoes if your horses are not shod.

This walk follows a discreet valley where water and forest have shaped the landscape for centuries. Each place evokes an ancient history, often linked to the passage and work of man. Sorinne-la-Longue is a village that stretches out like an ancient road, already frequented in Roman times. The Faya wood, whose name comes from the beech tree, offers a cool and calm atmosphere. Bethléem is a place steeped in symbolism, formerly associated with refuge and passage. At the Inzéfonds quarries, blue stone has left its mark on the local architecture and landscape. In the Gesves wood and the Chaumont valley, the forest becomes denser and more enveloping. The Samson stream structures the valley. Around it, the Bizonzon and neighbouring streams are home to a discreet and varied fauna. It is therefore a peaceful walk between water, stone and wood, ideal for slowing down and observing.

Easy, with only two small steep hills. 74% of the route is on paths. Outward journey through the woods, return journey mainly through fields. Picnic possible at km 15 at the Samson cheese dairy in Gesves (081 583 666), possibility to bring your own meal (provided you purchase a drink) or order a cheese and/or charcuterie platter. Along the way, you can discover some of the sculptures on the Gesves art trail.