Belgium's Oddest Hotel Is A Fairytale Retreat Hidden In The Scenic Countryside

Garden gnomes might be seen as kitsch nowadays, but these friendly little guys have a rich history in European mythology. The magical earth-dwelling beings had their roots in Renaissance alchemy before evolving into mystical characters in folklore and fairytales. Variations of gnomes can be found in many European countries and hold a fond place in Belgian culture, particularly in the Ardennes region where they are also the symbol of the Chouffe Brewery. Not far away from where the brewmasters concoct their famous ales, you can also vacation like one of the nature-loving creatures at La Balade des Gnomes, Belgium's oddest hotel.

Rick Steves considers the country one of Europe's best-kept secrets, and La Balade des Gnomes is one of those quirky special finds that you'll want to share with everyone you know. Located less than a two-hour drive from Brussels, it is nestled in the appropriately scenic Ardennes countryside known for its idyllic forests, gently rolling hills, and meandering rivers. It's just the kind of landscape where you might expect to find gnomes, and the architect of the hotel has pulled out all the stops to create a whimsical fantasy land for visitors. Guests have a choice of 12 magical lodgings to choose from for a stay they are unlikely to forget, ranging from bucolic cabins and gypsy caravans to a vintage sci-fi moon base. Let's take a closer look inside one of the most unusual hotels in the world.

La Balade des Gnomes may translate to "the Walk of the Gnomes," but the suites at this unique hotel draw from a variety of influences beyond local folklore and are designed to inspire childlike wonder. The Legend of the Trolls and the Cabin in the Forest are perhaps the closest to the mythical creatures' usual environment, dwellings built from natural wood and rustic materials to provide guests with a sense they are returning to nature. The latter even has a running stream to help complete the illusion. 

Other flights of fancy include the Stars of the Desert, a Moroccan-themed boudoir with its own camel where you can spend the night beneath a twinkling canopy of stars; the Monk's Despair, which pays homage to the fanciful architecture of Gaudí; On a Quarter Moon, a small suite that is like stepping into the imagination of Jules Verne; and Macquarie Island, a nautical adventure where you sleep inside a real sailboat. The showstopper has been wheeled in from Greek mythology, a towering two-story Trojan Horse that is accessed by a mechanical drawbridge. Once safely hidden inside, you can stoke up the wood stove and survey the surrounding countryside by moving the horse's head. The whimsical atmosphere continues at the on-site restaurant, La Marmite des Trolls, where the chefs serve up a menu with an emphasis on locally sourced produce in a welcoming dining room. You might even spot the odd gnome while you eat.

Start your day with a delicious breakfast (included in the price of accommodation) before venturing out to enjoy the surrounding area. La Balade des Gnomes is just a short drive from picturesque Durbuy, the "smallest city in the world." Despite its tiny size, it is regarded as one of the world's most awe-inspiring places you should visit, according to travel bloggers. There are plenty of things to see and do, whether it is just wandering the cobbled streets and strolling the splendid topiary garden or taking part in more active pursuits like ziplining, kayaking, or tackling the treetop adventure park. 

The Ardennes are great for hiking and cycling, and the gorgeous countryside is threaded with numerous trails and nature walks. History also runs deep in the region, and you can explore the mysterious megalithic stones of Wéris and the romantic medieval ruins of Château de Logne. Make like a troll and head underground at Hotton Caves to discover wondrous rock formations and a subterranean river — it is chilly down there so wrap up warm no matter what the time of year. For rainy days, you can check out the Ferrières' Toy Museum or take some time to relax at the subtropical swimming pool in nearby Bohon. The region is the kind of place you will want to explore at your leisure, and La Balade des Gnomes is a great base where you can feel part of the scenic landscape.