Baraque Michel - Das Land von oben betrachtet

The High Venn is undoubtedly one of the most enchanting landscapes in Belgium. A hike to fall in love with! Signage: Green rectangle Parking parking next to the Baraque Michel GPS start coordinates 50.519 - 6.0629 Start Walk along the Fischbach Chapel and follow the wooden paths. Tips Waterproof footwear or even boots are highly recommended! Eatery at the Baraque Michel. Difficulty level 12 km. A long hike through very muddy sections depending on the season. Total positive elevation gain 80 m This hike through an unspoiled landscape begins at the Baraque Michel, which was built in the 19th century amidst the heathland. In fog or snowstorm, a bell was rung to guide the lost out of the peat bog… Beneath the wooden paths we follow from the inn, water gurgles and flows from everywhere. We walk on a giant sponge. Recent clear-cutting in the conifer forests is intended to restore the surrounding environment. Because today, while conifers cover the plateau, the area once resembled a gigantic bog. The hike takes us through the High Venn to the Cross of the Betrothed, a poignant testimony to the fate of François and Marie, who froze to death in January 1871 because they got lost in the blizzard... The endless expanses of the Venn now give way to the beautiful landscape along the Polleur stream, which has remained so original that the path must carve a passage through the alders and birches. It leads us to a place called 'The Six Beeches', a broadleaf island amidst a conifer forest. The return path goes through the Venn of Setay. Sensitive area... Hikes in the High Venn are regulated. The sensitive balance of the peat bogs requires protective measures. Red flags mark a no-access area. This hiking trail is accessible year-round, except in cases of heavy snowfall. However, be careful not to slip on the wooden paths.