Nature getaway: observing local flora and fauna starting from Domaine du Bonsoy

Beyond its exceptional historical heritage, the Meuse Valley is first and foremost a sanctuary of biodiversity where nature reigns supreme. The deep forests, limestone cliffs, and winding rivers surrounding the Bungalows du Bonsoy shelter a rich array of wildlife and remarkable flora. For the curious and respectful traveler, every walk becomes an opportunity for observation, every dawn a promise of encounter, each season a new spectacle. This article is an invitation to lace up your hiking boots, arm yourself with patience and binoculars, and discover the living treasures of your holiday destination.

We will guide you in transforming your stay into a true nature expedition. Far from being just accommodation, the Domaine du Bonsoy is a privileged observatory, an ideal starting point for immersing yourself in the Ardennes ecosystem. Whether you are a passionate ornithologist, an amateur botanist, or simply a family seeking to reconnect with nature, you will find practical advice, observation sites, and activity ideas here for an authentic and memorable ecotourism experience. This approach is a continuation of our exploration of Benefits of a Walk in the Forest, moving from theory to the practice of observation.

The art of the hide: tips for becoming a discreet naturalist

Observing wildlife is not an exact science, but an art that blends patience, discretion, and knowledge. Animals are there, all around you, but they only reveal themselves to those who know how to blend in.

1. Timing is essential :

•Dawn and dusk: These are the “magic hours.” Most mammals, such as deer and foxes, are more active at these times of day. Get up early, or linger in the forest as the sun begins to set, and your chances of spotting wildlife will be greatly increased.
•The silence of the night: A night outing (with a red light so as not to frighten the animals) can reveal a whole other world: owls, badgers…

2. Discretion is your best ally :

• Dress simply: Wear neutral-colored clothing (green, brown, khaki) that blends into the surroundings. Avoid bright colors.
• Walk in silence: Move slowly, avoiding breaking branches. Take regular breaks to listen and observe.
• The wind, your friend or your enemy: Always move into the wind. Animals have a very keen sense of smell and will smell you coming from afar if the wind carries your scent towards them.
• Speak softly: If you are in a group, whisper.

3. The explorer’s equipment :

• A good pair of binoculars: Essential. 8x or 10x magnification is ideal for observation in the forest.
• An identification guide: A small book or an app on your phone to identify the birds, tracks or plants you come across.
• A camera with a good zoom: To immortalize your encounters without disturbing the animals.

The inhabitants of our forests: who might you meet? ?

The forests surrounding Domaine du Bonsoy are home to a diverse range of wildlife. Here are the species you are most likely to spot.

• The roe deer: It is the discreet lord of our woods. Elegant and agile, it can be observed at the edges of forests or in clearings at dawn. Pay attention to its hoarse bark, which often signals its presence.
• Wild boar: More difficult to spot because they are primarily nocturnal, they leave obvious traces of their presence: “boutis,” patches of turned earth where they have foraged. Sows followed by their striped piglets in spring are a touching sight, but best observed from a great distance.
• The fox: Cunning and adaptable, it is becoming increasingly visible, even during the day. Look for it in the meadows bordering the forest where it hunts rodents.
• The European beaver: Successfully reintroduced, it has recolonized the banks of the Meuse and its tributaries, such as the Hermeton. Look for signs of its presence: trees clipped into pencil-like shapes, dams, and lodges. A walk along the Hermeton is an excellent spot.

The winged people: a permanent concert

The Meuse valley is a migration corridor and a major nesting site for many bird species.

• The kingfisher: This blue and orange arrow is one of the most beautiful birds of our rivers. Patiently and silently position yourself on the banks of the Meuse or the Hermeton for a chance to see it dive.
• The grey heron: A large grey wading bird, it is easy to observe, motionless at the water’s edge, watching for its prey.
• The black stork: Rarer and more elusive than its white cousin, it nests in the deep forests of the Ardennes. Spotting one is a privilege.
• Birds of prey: Look up! The common buzzard often soars above the fields. With luck, you might see the peregrine falcon hunting near the cliffs.
• Small forest songbirds: Tits, finches, wrens, treecreepers… The forest resounds with their songs. Learn to recognize them; it’s an endless source of pleasure.

The vegetation cover: the remarkable flora of the Ardennes

Don’t forget to look down! The soil of our forests and the limestone grasslands on the slopes of the Meuse hold botanical treasures.

• Wild orchids: In spring, sunny limestone grasslands are adorned with several species of orchids, such as the early purple orchid (Orchis primate) or the bee orchid (Ophrys apifera). Fragile jewels to admire and photograph, but definitely not to pick!
• Wood anemone and bluebell: In early spring, they form spectacular carpets of white and blue flowers in the undergrowth.
• Foxglove: In summer, its large, majestic purple flower stalks colonize forest clearings and roadsides. Caution, the plant is highly toxic.

Organize your guided nature walk

To deepen your knowledge and maximize your chances of observation, why not call on a professional ?

• Local nature guides: The region boasts numerous passionate and certified guides (Nature Guides, Belgian Naturalists’ Circles). They know the best spots, the habits of the animals, and will share their passion with you safely.
• The Hastière Tourist Office: They regularly offer guided themed walks (beaver watching, discovering edible plants, etc.). Check their schedule during your stay.
• Useful link : https://hastiere-tourisme.be/bouger/a-pied/

Ecotourism: a responsible commitment

Observing nature is a privilege that comes with responsibilities. Your stay at the Bungalows du Bonsoy This is an opportunity to practice tourism that has a positive impact.

• Leave no trace: Take all your rubbish with you.
• Stay on the marked trails: To avoid disturbing the wildlife and trampling the fragile flora.
• Do not feed wild animals: This disrupts their natural behavior and can be dangerous to their health.
• Keep your dog on a leash: Even the gentlest dog can be a huge source of stress for wildlife.

By adopting these simple actions, you are helping to preserve the exceptional natural heritage that makes our region so rich. Your bungalow is not just a holiday destination; it’s a gateway to a wild and unspoiled world. It’s up to you to open it with respect and wonder.