The Falaën Gourmet Walk: Epicurean Odyssey in the Heart of the Most Beautiful Villages of Wallonia
In the lush green setting of the commune of Onhaye, where the Ardennes hills display their most beautiful autumnal finery, one of the most anticipated gastronomic events in Wallonia is in preparation. The 26th edition of the Marche Gourmande, orchestrated by the Li Crochon brotherhood, will transform the trails of Sommière into a true culinary initiation course from September 12 to 14. This exceptional gourmet adventure, just a few kilometers from your haven of peace at the Bungalows du Bonsoy, promises a total immersion in the Ardennes art of living, where gastronomy and conviviality combine in a natural setting of striking beauty.
The Li Crochon Brotherhood: Pioneer of the Art of Street Food
For twenty-six years, the Li Crochon brotherhood has embodied excellence in the organization of gourmet walks, establishing itself as the undisputed pioneer of this original form of gastronomic tourism in Belgium. This passionate association has revolutionized the concept of culinary discovery by combining it with hiking, creating a unique experience that attracts thousands of epicureans from all over Europe every year.
The history of Li Crochon is a testament to a bold vision and a burning passion for local gastronomy. Realizing that the culinary richness of the Ardennes deserved an original and accessible showcase, the founders of this brotherhood came up with a revolutionary concept: transforming a simple stroll into a true gastronomic journey, punctuated by carefully orchestrated culinary stops in exceptional natural settings.
This innovative approach quickly won over an ever-growing audience, attracting not only food lovers, but also families looking for original activities, hikers eager to enrich their getaways with a taste dimension, and tourists eager to discover the authenticity of the Ardennes region. The growing success of the Gourmet Walk is a testament to the accuracy of this vision, with attendance steadily increasing over the years.
The expertise acquired by Li Crochon over the past two and a half decades translates into a perfect mastery of all logistical and culinary aspects of the event. From the selection of local producers to the layout of tasting sites, from menu design to the coordination of volunteer teams, every detail is considered to ensure an unforgettable experience for participants.
Summary 2025: New Chapter in a Gastronomic Saga
This year, the charming village of Sommière is hosting this culinary celebration, continuing the tradition of the Gourmet Walk, which each year explores a new area of the Onhaye commune. This annual rotation allows the organizers to constantly renew the experience, offering both regulars and novices new discoveries and new perspectives on the region’s natural and architectural heritage.
Sommière, with its preserved rural character and rolling landscapes typical of the Ardennes, offers an ideal setting for this gastronomic adventure. The village, nestled in the heart of a green setting, reveals to walkers its best-kept secrets: shaded forest trails, flower-filled meadows, panoramic viewpoints over the valley, and authentic architectural heritage. This landscape diversity considerably enriches the experience, transforming each culinary step into a moment of contemplation and communion with nature.
The seven-kilometer route, carefully mapped out by the organizers, takes in dirt roads and forest trails that reveal the wild beauty of the Ardennes countryside. This immersion in nature adds a unique sensory dimension to the tasting, with the scents of the forest and the sounds of the countryside creating an atmosphere conducive to awakening the taste buds and relaxing the mind.
The accessibility of the route, designed without major technical difficulties, allows everyone to participate in this culinary adventure. Families with children, seniors who love good food, groups of friends looking for conviviality, all will find in this gourmet walk an activity adapted to their expectations and their physical abilities.
The Art of Outdoor Tasting: A Total Sensory Experience
The Gourmet Walk transcends mere tasting to become a truly immersive sensory experience. Each culinary stop is designed as a living tableau where flavors, aromas, colors, and sounds harmoniously blend, creating a gustatory symphony that engages all of participants’ senses.
The musical ambiance that accompanies each step adds a festive and convivial dimension to the tasting. These musical interludes, carefully selected to harmonize with the spirit of each dish, create a relaxed and warm atmosphere that encourages exchanges between participants and reinforces the feeling of sharing that characterizes the Ardennes art of living.
The presentation of the dishes, adapted to the natural setting, reveals all the organizers’ expertise in the art of culinary staging. Each tasting stand becomes a small gastronomic theater where local producers and passionate cooks present their creations with pride and expertise, willingly sharing their manufacturing secrets and anecdotes about local products.
This educational approach to gastronomy significantly enriches the experience of participants, who leave not only satisfied but also educated about local culinary traditions, artisanal production techniques, and the history of the specialties tasted. This educational dimension transforms the Gourmet Walk into a true popular university of Ardennes gastronomy.
Exceptional Menus: A Tasteful Journey to the Heart of the Land
The menus created for this 26th edition demonstrate the creativity and culinary expertise of the organizers, who have successfully combined tradition and innovation to create exceptional gastronomic creations. Each day offers a unique culinary journey, revealing different facets of the Ardennes’ culinary richness and showcasing the most talented local producers.
Sunday’s menu, the only day still open to latecomers, perfectly illustrates this culinary philosophy. The “Délices Ardennais” aperitif opens the festivities by celebrating the diversity of local produce, offering the taste buds a first taste of the authentic flavors that characterize the region’s terroir. This introduction, designed as an invitation to a taste journey, prepares participants for the discovery of the culinary treasures that await them.
The starter, titled “L’oeuf de Malonsart – Chou-fleur et crevettes grises de la Mer du Nord,” showcases the art of Ardennes cuisine in its ability to harmoniously combine local produce with ingredients from more distant horizons. This bold composition demonstrates the open-mindedness of local chefs and their mastery of contemporary culinary techniques, while respecting the traditional spirit of regional gastronomy.
The “Cuban-Style Mentholated Freshness” sorbet provides a refreshing break in this taste journey, illustrating the organizers’ attention to the balance of flavors and the pace of tasting. This original creation, with its exotic accents, demonstrates the innovative capacity of local ice cream makers and their talent for pleasantly surprising even the most discerning palates.
The main course, “Braised Ham with Forge-Toi Sauce Accompanied by the Brotherhood’s Stuffed Meat,” is the highlight of this culinary journey. This iconic creation showcases one of the most representative specialties of Ardennes charcuterie, enhanced by a sauce with local accents and accompanied by an exclusive preparation from the Li Crochon brotherhood. This generous and flavorful composition perfectly embodies the spirit of conviviality and authenticity that characterizes Ardennes gastronomy.
Falaën and the Commune of Onhaye: Jewels of Beauty and Tradition
The Gourmet Walk draws part of its magic from the exceptional beauty of the areas it crosses. The commune of Onhaye, which this year is home to the village of Sommière, is one of the heritage gems of the province of Namur, bringing together no fewer than eight castles or castle-farms that bear witness to the historical richness of this region.
Falaën, the emblematic village of this commune and the setting for the 2023 edition, which attracted 9,500 participants, perfectly embodies the harmony between architectural heritage and natural beauty that characterizes the region. Listed among the “Most Beautiful Villages of Wallonia,” Falaën reveals to visitors its preserved limestone habitat, its cobbled streets steeped in history, and its panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
This heritage recognition is no accident: it rewards centuries of preservation and enhancement of an exceptional rural heritage. The traditional limestone houses, with their slate roofs and flower gardens, create a remarkably coherent architectural ensemble that transports visitors to the peaceful and authentic atmosphere of the Ardennes countryside of yesteryear.
Montaigle Castle, whose majestic ruins overlook the valley, adds a romantic and historical dimension to this already enchanting landscape. This medieval fortress, a witness to the conflicts that have marked the region’s history, offers walkers an exceptional view of the valley and is a popular destination for heritage and photography enthusiasts.
The proximity of theMaredsous Abbey further enriches this heritage offering, offering visitors an incursion into the monastic world and its centuries-old traditions. This Benedictine abbey, renowned for its cheeses and beers, perfectly illustrates the continuity of the artisanal traditions that make up the richness of the local terroir.
The Night Experience: Magic of the Senses under the Stars
The Friday and Saturday evening editions, unfortunately already sold out due to their great success, offer an additional dimension to this gastronomic adventure. The Gourmet Walk under the stars completely transforms the experience, creating a cozy and intimate atmosphere that enhances the flavors and heightens the sensations.
The carefully designed lighting of the route creates a magical atmosphere that transforms the forest paths into truly enchanted avenues. This lighting, respectful of the natural environment, reveals unique perspectives on the landscape and adds a theatrical dimension to each culinary step. The play of light and shadow, the golden reflections on the autumn foliage, and the mysterious silhouettes of the century-old trees create a natural setting of striking beauty.
This nocturnal atmosphere also influences taste perception, as the senses are naturally more heightened in the dark. The aromas of food seem more intense, the textures more pronounced, the flavors more complex. This sensory heightening transforms each tasting into a moment of pure culinary magic, etching unforgettable taste memories into the minds of the participants.
Conviviality also takes on a special dimension during these evening events. The intimacy created by the subdued lighting encourages interaction between participants; conversations become warmer, and laughter more spontaneous. This relaxed and welcoming atmosphere greatly contributes to the success of these gourmet evenings, which often continue well beyond the last tasting stand.
The Family Dimension: Transmission and Sharing of Culinary Pleasures
The Gourmet Walk stands out for its ability to bring together all generations around a shared passion for good food and conviviality. This intergenerational dimension is one of the event’s strengths, creating special moments of sharing between grandparents, parents, and children united in the discovery of gastronomic pleasures.
The accessible nature trail allows families to participate in this culinary adventure together, with children discovering the authentic flavors of the local terroir with wonder while enjoying a fun walk in the heart of nature. This early introduction to the pleasures of the table and the quality of local products contributes to the transmission of gastronomic values and the education of taste in young children.
The organizers have paid particular attention to welcoming families, offering prices adapted for children and ensuring that the menus offer flavors likely to appeal to younger palates without sacrificing the quality and originality of the preparations. This attention paid to families demonstrates Li Crochon’s desire to democratize access to quality gastronomy and to make this event a moment of shared happiness.
The educational aspect of the Gourmet Walk significantly enriches the family experience. Children learn about the origins of food, artisanal production techniques, and the importance of respecting the seasons and product quality. This awareness-raising approach to sustainable and responsible food is achieved in a natural and fun way, in a festive setting that encourages the assimilation of knowledge.
The Ardennes Art of Living: Conviviality and Authenticity
The Gourmet Walk is an exceptional showcase of the Ardennes art of living, a philosophy of existence that prioritizes the quality of human relationships, respect for traditions, and the promotion of local natural and cultural heritage. This approach to life, deeply rooted in the regional identity, is reflected in every aspect of the event’s organization.
The Ardennes friendliness is evident from the warm and welcoming welcome given to participants, which immediately sets the tone for this day of sharing and good humor. The volunteers, true ambassadors of this legendary hospitality, contribute greatly to creating the relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that characterizes the event.
This conviviality is also reflected in the very organization of the walk, designed to encourage meetings and exchanges between participants. The waiting times at the various stands, far from being perceived as constraints, become opportunities to build relationships, share taste impressions, exchange culinary advice or addresses of local producers.
Authenticity is the other pillar of this Ardennes art of living. It is reflected in the privileged choice of local producers, the promotion of traditional recipes revisited with creativity, and the use of seasonal products that respect the environment. This qualitative approach, demanding but consistent, guarantees participants an authentic and memorable taste experience.
Local Producers: Artisans of Taste and Guardians of Traditions
The success of the Gourmet Walk is largely due to the exceptional quality of the local producers who participate in the event. These artisans of taste, true guardians of Ardennes culinary traditions, bring their centuries-old expertise and passion for excellence to this gastronomic celebration.
Among these local talents are emblematic figures of regional gastronomy such as Maison Dawagne, renowned for its traditional salmon, and Les Lutins d’Anthée, masters in the art of fine pastry. These establishments, renowned far beyond regional borders, bring their expertise and creativity to create exclusive preparations specially created for the Gourmet March.
The Destrée biscuit factory, another loyal partner of the event, perfectly illustrates this alliance between tradition and innovation that characterizes local culinary craftsmanship. Its creations, which traditionally accompany the gourmet coffee at the end of the course, demonstrate the vitality and creativity of local artisans, capable of revisiting ancestral recipes while preserving their authenticity.
This close collaboration between the organizers and local producers creates a real synergy that benefits everyone: artisans benefit from an exceptional showcase to showcase their creations to a wide audience, while participants have the assurance of tasting exceptional products, produced according to the rules of the art by passionate people of their profession.
Practical Information for Your Gourmet Getaway
Available dates : Sunday, September 14, 2025 only (Friday and Saturday full)
Schedules : Free departures from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Lieu : Sommière, commune of Onhaye
Rates : Adult €50 / Child (under 12) €27
Reservation : Only by payment to account BE50 0882 3309 3318
Registration closes : September 6, 2025
Contact : +32 471 088 999 or info@lamarchegourmande.be
Organizing this gourmet walk requires careful preparation on the part of participants. It is imperative to bring your own cutlery, as an INAO glass is provided upon arrival and must be kept throughout the course to receive the drinks provided at each stage. This feature, far from being a constraint, adds a friendly and ecological dimension to the event.
The seven-plus-kilometer route, while accessible to all, runs along dirt roads and forest trails that require footwear suitable for walking on natural terrain. This recommendation is especially important during this autumn season, when morning dampness can make some sections slippery.
The ideal access point is the E411 motorway, exit 20b towards Philippeville, then follow the signs towards Onhaye. A free car park, specially set up for the occasion, is available for participants’ vehicles. The signage put in place by the organizers and the presence of volunteer signallers make arriving at the site much easier.
A Complementary Experience to Your Stay at the Bungalows du Bonsoy
This gourmet walk is naturally part of the spirit of discovery and authenticity that characterizes a stay at the Bungalows du Bonsoy. The geographical proximity between your accommodation and the event site greatly facilitates the organization of this culinary getaway, allowing you to fully enjoy this experience without major logistical constraints.
The gastronomic approach of this activity perfectly complements the other discoveries we recommend in the region. It will allow you to grasp the cultural and culinary richness of your host territory, enriching your understanding of the Ardennes identity and its centuries-old traditions.
For families staying in our bungalows, this gourmet walk is an ideal activity to create shared memories and introduce young visitors to the pleasures of quality gastronomy. The educational aspect of the event, combined with its festive and friendly atmosphere, makes it an enriching experience for all generations.
Food lovers will find this walk a unique opportunity to discover local culinary talent and learn about Ardennes specialties in an exceptional setting. This immersion in the regional gastronomic universe can also inspire your own culinary creations during your stay.
Extend the Discovery: Gastronomy and Ardennes Terroir
This introduction to Ardennes gastronomy can be the starting point for more in-depth culinary explorations in the region. Numerous local producers, gourmet restaurants, and local markets allow you to extend this culinary discovery throughout your stay.
The region is full of secret places where you can taste local specialties in their original environment: farmhouse inns nestled in the heart of the valleys, craft breweries perpetuating ancestral brewing traditions, artisanal cheese factories offering exclusive creations. These additional discoveries will enrich your understanding of the local terroir and allow you to take a little of this Ardennes authenticity home with you.
Local markets, true theaters of rural life, also offer excellent opportunities to meet producers and acquire exceptional products to extend the pleasures discovered during the gourmet walk at home. These direct exchanges with the artisans of taste are often the most enriching moments of a gastronomic stay.
Regional culinary literature, rich in traditional recipes and delicious anecdotes, also allows you to deepen your knowledge of Ardennes gastronomy. These books, often available from local producers or specialist bookstores, make excellent travel souvenirs and sources of inspiration for reproducing the flavors you discover at home.
An Unmissable Rendezvous with Culinary Excellence
The 26th Falaën Gourmet Walk is much more than just a gastronomic event: it’s a celebration of the Ardennes art of living, an ode to conviviality and authenticity, an invitation to a sensory journey to the heart of an exceptional terroir. This unique experience, the result of twenty-six years of expertise and passion, promises you unforgettable moments of discovery and sharing.
The Li Crochon brotherhood’s commitment to culinary excellence and the promotion of local gastronomic heritage makes this event a must-see for all lovers of fine food. The consistent quality of the performances, the originality of the culinary creations, and the beauty of the sites visited guarantee an experience that meets the most demanding expectations.
The human dimension of this adventure, driven by passionate volunteers and talented producers, adds a special warmth to this gastronomic celebration. This authenticity of relationships, this generosity in sharing knowledge and flavors constitute the true soul of the Gourmet Walk and explain its growing success.
From your bungalow in the heart of the Ardennes, you have the ideal starting point to embark on this exceptional culinary adventure. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to discover the gastronomic treasures of your host region in a preserved natural setting and an incomparable, friendly atmosphere.
Book your participation in this gourmet odyssey without delay and prepare yourself for an unforgettable sensory experience that will enrich your Ardennes stay with an exceptional culinary dimension. An authentic adventure that will reveal all the richness and generosity of the local terroir, in the spirit of sharing and conviviality that has made the legendary reputation of Ardennes hospitality.
The Bungalows du Bonsoy team is available to help you plan your participation in this gourmet walk and all your other gastronomic discoveries in the region. Take advantage of your stay in our natural setting to explore the authentic flavors of the Ardennes region.
In the lush green setting of the commune of Onhaye, where the Ardennes hills display their most beautiful autumnal finery, one of the most anticipated gastronomic events in Wallonia is in preparation. The 26th edition of the Marche Gourmande, orchestrated by the Li Crochon brotherhood, will transform the trails of Sommière into a true culinary initiation course from September 12 to 14. This exceptional gourmet adventure, just a few kilometers from your haven of peace at the Bungalows du Bonsoy, promises a total immersion in the Ardennes art of living, where gastronomy and conviviality combine in a natural setting of striking beauty.
