Bouillon is in Belgium, but those who visit shouldn't be surprised to find it quite French in style and tone. It lies in the south of country, in Luxembourg, which means it's closer to France, tight on the border in fact. Apart from being a largely French speaking area, it is renowned for being a beautiful place, and one which has some of the richest history in Europe.
There are a number of good accommodation options for those who visit. Many of the best local hotels enjoy a position on the famous Semois River. The river is quite a prominent part of the town and its bend makes for an interesting geographical feature, which greatly enhances the beauty of the town. There are different types of hotel in the city, there are traditional grand hotels and then there are those which are more contemporary. You'll also found in some parts of Bouillon excellent guests houses. Since the town is surrounded by the forests and hills of the Ardennes, many prefer to take lodgings in a guest house and be close to all the wonderful walking, hiking and cycling which are some the reasons many visit. But those looking for a traditional hotel room or suite, will not be disappointed. If you have located yourself in the center of the town, you'll be well poised to get the full experience of upscale hospitality. And this experience is largely about the rich heritage of not only the town, but a heritage which has greatly influenced the world. You may find yourself staying in hotel with a view of the Semois River, but you're also likely to have a view of the famous medieval castle which looks down over the town and is one of the nation's most popular tourist attractions. The castle is where the Duke Godfrey once lived, and down the family line, Godfrey the Fifth sold his castle to fund the first crusade. Many of the local hotels are named after the regal heritage that dominates the town, and people come from all over Europe, and sometimes the world, to soak up this exceptionally well preserved castle which was the one-time home of a man who set about changing the world.
Because of the variety of curious and beautiful locations, there are accommodations in different areas. You can, if you want, stay in hotel with more rural surroundings, where the beauty of the Ardennes is just beyond the entrance. Such places offer a true luxury Chateau feeling, and here you'll be able to enjoy tasteful and civilized accommodations with all the nuances of gentrified country living. Among other pleasures, you'll be able to enjoy superb cuisine in the hotel restaurants. On the border of France, you're likely to find both French fine dining and Belgium specialties, as well as a wider array of European and Mediterranean fare. Of course, the great wines of France with be in ready supply to add to the culinary experience. If you're one who knows that a lovely environment enhances the quality of food, then you'll be pleased that many of the restaurants benefit from great views of the river, countryside and castle. Some of the most revered restaurants are found on the hotel terraces. At least one hotel, located right on the river's edge and with its own heritage, offers continental breakfast with sparkling wine. At such a place you can expect a classical design with art and furnishing which reflect the ducal heritage.
The majority who avail themselves of the local hotels are on vacation or perhaps a romantic getaway. Bouillon is a romantic's dream, and the best hotels have something of sheer indulgence about them. You'll have a lovely room or suite, and be able to enjoy in-room features like large private bathrooms and quality linens, not to forget the necessities of the modern age, like TV and internet connections.
This is town in which it's a pleasure to wake up, and the charming, elegant hotels will offer you a lovely breakfast to prepare you for the day. And there are many inspiring things to do. Just ask your front desk about how to get to the castle which is open to visitors. Take the tour and be transported back to the most significant period of the Middle Ages. Or you take to the river in a pedal boat or kayak and simply relax in the peace and quiet of a beautiful town with only five-thousand residents. One of the more popular local places of interest is the Archeoscope Godefroid de Bouillon, which offers its own tour, one filled with special effects and dazzling audio and visuals. This is the perfect excursion for all, young and old, who have an interest in history. Horse riding is also an well-loved local activity and if you do ride, there are few greater pleasures than taking a slow canter through the marvelous forest-flanked paths of the countryside. Another local attraction is the Crete des Cerfs, which is a lovely animal park and ideal for excursion with the younger visitors. Since you're only a short drive from the French border, the delights of a whole other nation are not far away.
But most probably won't want to venture too far from their hotel, especially if they're looking to unwind and relax in this glorious part of the world. Take your book or a glass of wine and enjoy the quiet of dusk from the lounge terrace offered by a couple of hotels, or simply sit in the spacious lobby rich with warmth and have a thought about which gourmet eatery you feel like attending in the evening.
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