Parc naturel des Hautes-Fagnes – Eifel

The Parc naturel des Hautes-Fagnes – Eifel spreads across a protected moorland plateau in Belgium. Its plateau ground stays wet, soft, and spongy. Grasses, mosses, and low shrubs cover the poor soil, which holds water across the open landscape. Slate forms the central ridge above the wet plateau. The area covers about five thousand hectares and reaches 694 metres, the highest point in the Benelux countries. The moors began forming after the last ice age. Since 1957, conservation has protected this landscape as Wallonia’s oldest nature reserve. Wooden walkways cross fragile wet ground, while marked paths connect the plateau with valleys and villages. Walking and cycling routes cross the park. Guided nature walks, family excursions, and winter sports all take place across this quiet, foggy landscape. The broad horizon, cool damp air, bird calls, and wind across the grasses shape the park’s open character. The sky feels close above the moor.