Hike Barvaux – Bomal - Sy (loop 26 km)

Let’s go hiking in the Ardennes. This journey takes us through a part of the Calestienne, a geological region shaped by limestone rock. Expect plenty of steep climbs, solid elevation gain and mostly unpaved trails.

Our reward is conquering the rocks of Sy and offering stunning views over the Ourthe. Along the way we pass caves, striking rock formations, the ruins of Logne Castle, wide fields and some quiet hamlets. The landscape shifts between forests, open countryside and beautiful panoramic views.

After our hike we continue our good habit of taking a nice beer/pancake/snack in a local pub in Barvaux before returning to Brussels.

Please don't forget to pay Maikel a drink :-)

We will walk at an average speed of 5km/h both on paved and unpaved roads. I’ve never walked this road before so it’s possible that there are some mistakes in the planning. Be prepared for this.

●●Meeting point
We meet at 08h45 in front of Starbucks in Brussels Central. The train (IC507 – Eupen) leaves at 09h01 from platform 3. We arrive at 10h00 in Liege Guilmins on platform 5 where we change to train (L5559 – Marloie) who leaves at 10h13 from platform 5. We arrive 11h05 at our destination Barvaux and start our hike.

●● Train tickets
- single ticket Brussels to Barvaux (14,90 € weekend / 09,00 € with train card+)
- single ticket Barvaux to Brussels (14,90 € weekend / 9,00 € with train card+)

●● Train back to Brussels
There are 2 trains every two hours from Barvaux to Brussels at XX:06 and XX:54.
For more info check www.nmbs.be

LAST TRAIN = 21h54

●● Specifics
distance: ~ 26 km
elevation gain: ~ 656 m
net walking time: ~ 6h00
level: intermediate – hiking expercience is an advantage

In the unlikely case of too bad weather we may cancel a hike even few hours before the event. If this must happen we will of course update the Meetup website and send out an email to those registered. So, it is important to have access to either the Meetup website and/or your emails.

●● What to bring
- warm comfortable hiking clothes – waterproof hiking shoes
- extra socks to change + compeed for blisters
- enough water and food for lunch/breaks
- sun protection oil, a hat and sunglasses OR a raincoat
(please consult the weather forecast on www.meteo.be)
- some money to pay Maikel a drink ;-)

●● Basic rules
Please RSVP only if you really intend to come. And if your plans change update your RSVP latest 1 day before the hike so other people still have the possibility to join. This is basic courtesy towards others. People who cancel at the last day (24h) or don’t show up for the hike will be blacklisted for future hikes. Do not show up for a hike unless you are on the roster (i.e. Yes RSVP - but not Wait Listed)

●● Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability
By signing up for this event you agree to release the organizers from any responsibility and liability in all claims. As the participation is strictly voluntary and you freely choose to join, it is the responsibility of individuals participating to ensure that they are fit enough and have adequate coverage to protect themselves.