Roof Tent Camping in Belgium – Best Activities in the Ardennes

Roof Tent camping in Belgium was an absolute dream. If you’re planning a roof tent adventure and wondering where to camp and what to do in Belgium, this guide is for you. The Ardennes region offers everything a nature lover could ask for. One day you can explore lush forest and vibrant towns, other days you can do river kayaking, the possibilities are endless.

Why We Chose Belgium

Two Belgian beers on a table: a local craft beer from Dinant and a bottle of Jupiler, with a scenic Belgian backdrop.

Our first proper camping stop after crossing the North Sea via the DFDS ferry was in Belgium. We headed straight for the Ardennes region, drawn by its dense forests, rolling hills, and peaceful atmosphere. It was the perfect place to immerse ourselves in nature and enjoy the outdoors to the fullest.

Where to Camp: Petite Suisse Campsite

A roof tent car set up at Camping Petite Suisse in the Ardennes, surrounded by forested hills and peaceful nature.

We stayed at Camping Petite Suisse, a beautiful and well-equipped site ideal for roof tent setups. It had everything we needed:

  • Clean toilets & hot showers
  • A restaurant & bar
  • Playground for kids
  • Tennis court
  • Swimming pool

Note: They don’t provide a hairdryer, so bring your own!
For a full packing list, check out our camping essentials guide.

Booking Tips:

  • You can book and pay online.
  • Self-check-in is available, so no strict arrival time.
  • If arriving late, it’s best to email them in advance.

Things to Do Around the Campsite

Visit Dinant

Scenic view of Dinant, Belgium, with colorful riverside houses, the Meuse River, and dramatic cliffs in the background.

Just an hour’s drive from the campsite, Dinant is a vibrant riverside city surrounded by dramatic cliffs. You can also bike there (approx. 4 hours).

Top Attractions:

  • Collegiate Church of Notre Dame de Dinant – A stunning riverside cathedral.
  • Citadel of Dinant – Offers panoramic views of the city.
  • House of Adolphe Sax – Learn about the Belgian inventor of the saxophone.
  • Local cuisine & beer – A must-try!

Go Kayaking on the River Lesse

Kayakers paddling along the River Lesse in the Ardennes, Belgium, surrounded by lush forest and limestone cliffs.

If you love water sports or just want a relaxing adventure, kayaking on the River Lesse is perfect.

  • Choose between 9 km, 12 km, or 21 km routes.
  • We went with the 12 km option—great for beginners!
  • Booked through Dinant Evasion, which includes a shuttle to the starting point.

Highlight: Paddling past the majestic Walzin Castle—a fairytale moment!

Explore the Ardennes

Panoramic view of the Ardennes region in Belgium, with rolling hills covered in dense forest and misty valleys.

The campsite is surrounded by biking and hiking trails. If you have bikes, bring them! We didn’t, so we explored on foot.

  • We hiked 32 km round trip to La Roche-en-Ardenne.
  • The trail was scenic, peaceful, and full of surprises—including one of the steepest hills in the region!

Visit La Roche-en-Ardenne

View of La Roche-en-Ardenne, Belgium, with its medieval castle, riverside houses, and surrounding forested hills.

This charming town is one of the Ardennes’ most popular destinations.

  • By foot: ~3 hours from the campsite
  • By bike: ~35 minutes

Once there, you can:

  • Visit the medieval chateau
  • Explore the local church
  • Enjoy lunch at one of the cozy restaurants

On the way back, we took a different trail and ended up on a steep climb—unexpected, but fun!

Camping in Belgium gave us everything we hoped for and more. The Petite Suisse campsite was comfortable and well-equipped, and the surrounding region was packed with activities, like kayaking and hiking to cultural sightseeing.

If you’re planning to explore the Ardennes region, this is the perfect base.
Want to know more about our full European camping route? Read our travel story here.