Signal de Botrange is the highest point in Belgium, standing at 694 metres above sea level on the vast plateau of the High Fens (Hautes Fagnes) nature reserve. Despite the modest elevation by Alpine standards, the location feels genuinely remote — open moorland stretches in every direction, the wind picks up quickly, and on a clear day the views across the bog landscape are unlike anything else in Belgium.
It’s a popular starting point for hiking and cross-country skiing, and the on-site bar, restaurant, and nearby visitor centre make it easy to turn a quick stop into a full day out. Whether you’re ticking off Belgium’s highest point, setting off on a long hike, or simply enjoying the scenery, this guide covers everything you need to plan your visit.
About the Signal de Botrange
Signal de Botrange marks the summit of Belgium at 694 metres. The site sits not on a traditional mountain peak but on a broad, flat plateau — the result of glacial activity some 10,000 years ago during the last ice age. For many decades, the location hosted a meteorological station that monitored weather conditions across the plateau.
The most recognisable feature is the stone observation tower, built specifically so visitors can stand at exactly 700 metres above sea level — a satisfying six metres above the natural plateau height. Today the tower is a popular photo spot, and the site includes a bar and restaurant where you can warm up after a walk.
On the opposite side of the road, a viewing platform looks out over the sweeping High Fens landscape — one of the most distinctive views in the country.
The roof of Belgium
Many travelers will associate the highest point of a country with mountains. However the Signal the Botrange is located on an elevated plateau. The surroundings are also nicknamed “the roof of Belgium”, since the area has the most rainfall in the entire country. Generally temperatures are also a few degrees colder than in the rest of the country.
Panoramic view
Just across the road from Signal de Botrange, a world of panoramic splendor awaits. The scenic viewing point presents an unrivaled vantage from which to behold the mesmerizing landscape of the High Fens. Prepare to be captivated by the unique combination of verdant meadows, rolling hills, and abundant flora that stretch out as far as the eye can see
Visitor Centre Parc Botrange
Signal de Botrange is located in the heart of the High Fens nature reserve, approximately 50 kilometres southeast of Liège and around 15 kilometres from Eupen. The nearest villages are Robertville and Ovifat.
- Address: Route de Botrange 131, 4950 Waimes, Belgium
- Coordinates: 50.4986° N, 6.0856° E
- Parking: There are two main car parks within easy walking distance:
- Signal de Botrange car park — directly at the tower and restaurant. This fills up quickly on weekends and during winter snowfall.
- Maison du Parc Botrange car park — located 1.5 km southeast along the same road, at the visitor centre. Usually has more space and is a good alternative starting point for hikes.
Both car parks are free of charge. Arriving early is strongly recommended on weekends, public holidays, and any day with fresh snowfall.
Hiking trails at Signal de Botrange
Signal de Botrange is one of the best hiking bases in Belgium, with well-marked trails fanning out across the plateau in every direction. Both the Signal de Botrange car park and the Maison du Parc Botrange serve as convenient trailheads. Trails are colour-coded by difficulty and clearly signposted throughout.
Here are some of the most popular routes starting from or near Signal de Botrange:
- Boardwalk Bog Walk (Fagne Circuit) Distance: 3–5 km | Difficulty: Easy | Duration: 1–1.5 hrs A flat, accessible route along raised wooden boardwalks through the open peat bog. Ideal for families and first-time visitors. Offers some of the most characteristic High Fens scenery close to the car park.
- Signal de Botrange Circular Distance: 8–10 km | Difficulty: Easy–Moderate | Duration: 2.5–3 hrs A longer loop taking in the viewing platform, the tower, and sections of open moorland and forest. A good all-round introduction to the landscape.
- Baraque Michel Route Distance: 12–15 km | Difficulty: Moderate | Duration: 4–5 hrs A more demanding route heading southwest through the core of the nature reserve towards the historic Baraque Michel crossroads, one of the highest road junctions in Belgium.
Tips: Waterproof boots are essential almost year-round. Bring layers — the plateau is exposed and the temperature can drop quickly. Some sections of the reserve are closed seasonally to protect nesting birds; check current access restrictions at the visitor centre or on the High Fens nature reserve website.
Skiing at Signal de Botrange
When snow arrives — and in the High Fens it usually arrives before anywhere else in Belgium — Signal de Botrange transforms into the country’s most popular winter sports destination. The open plateau and reliable snowfall make it ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, and the area draws large crowds on winter weekends.
- Cross-country skiing is the main attraction, with several groomed tracks of varying lengths accessible directly from the Signal de Botrange car park. Tracks are maintained by the local Ski Botrange club and conditions are updated regularly on their website.
- Alpine skiing is limited here — the terrain is a plateau rather than a mountain, so there are no long downhill runs. A small beginners’ slope and drag lift operate near the car park when snow conditions allow, making it a good option for young children or complete beginners.
- Sledging is popular on the gentle slopes near the car park and is free of charge.
- Equipment rental (skis, snowshoes, sledges) is available at the Signal de Botrange car park during the winter season.
For current snow conditions, trail status, and rental availability, visit ski-botrange.be.
Where to stay nearby
Signal de Botrange itself has no overnight accommodation, but there are plenty of options within a short drive across the surrounding High Fens region.
- Closest villages: Ovifat (2 km), Robertville (6 km), and Waimes (10 km) all have holiday cottages and small hotels within easy reach of the site.
- Malmedy (15 km) and Eupen (20 km) are the largest nearby towns and offer the widest range of accommodation, from budget guesthouses to comfortable hotels and spa breaks.
- Budget: Self-catering gîtes and holiday cottages start from around €50–80 per night. Several campsite options near Butgenbach and Robertville are open from April to October.
- Mid-range: B&Bs and small hotels in the area typically range from €80–130 per night, often including breakfast.
- Groups & families: Larger holiday homes sleeping 6–15 people are widely available across the region and offer good value when split across a group.
Book well in advance for winter weekends — accommodation fills up fast whenever snow is forecast.
Conclusion
Before you visit Signal de Botrange — practical checklist:
- 📍 Address: Route de Botrange 131, 4950 Waimes
- 🚗 Parking: Free at Signal de Botrange and Maison du Parc Botrange car parks — arrive early on weekends
- 🥾 Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots recommended year-round
- 🧥 Clothing: Dress in layers — the plateau is exposed and cooler than surrounding areas
- ❄️ Winter visits: Check snow conditions at ski-botrange.be before heading out
- 🔥 Fire rules: Open fires are strictly prohibited in the nature reserve
- 🗺️ Maps & trail info: Available at the Maison du Parc Botrange visitor centre
- 🌿 Access restrictions: Some trail sections may be closed seasonally — check before you go
Signal de Botrange is one of those Belgian landmarks that genuinely rewards a visit. It’s not dramatic in the way an Alpine summit is, but the wide-open bog landscape, the silence, and the sense of being at the very top of a country have a quiet appeal all of their own.
