Dinant: Home of Europe’s Hardest Biscuit
Dinant, Belgium is a city in Namur first mentioned as a settlement in the seventh century. Its name comes from “Divo-Nanto” a Celtic word that means “sacred valley” or “divine valley”. The hardest biscuit in Europe, couque de Dinant, hails from the city. Visit Dinant by flying from the Charleville Mezieres Airport (XCZ).
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Dinant is during the months of May through September, for the perfect weather. The busiest months are usually January, May, and July. Tourists are least likely to visit in December. One of the most famous events in the area is Castel Salsa Bachata Kizomba Festival, which is held every August. It features parties, pool parties, shows, socials, and workshops. Another nearby event to look forward to is Esperanzah! in Floreffe, which is held every August. It is a music festival that promotes a sense of community among all attendees.
What to Do & Area Attractions
One of the most famous attractions in the city is Collegiate Church of Our Lady. It is a 13th-century Gothic cathedral popular for its 16th-century bell tower shaped like a pear. Another interesting site to visit in the city is Dinant Citadel. It is a fortress built in the early 19th century. The site was originally fortified in the early 11th century. A part of Meuse citadels or mosane citadels, it overlooks the entire city. Meuse citadels are a group of forts erected along the Meuse River. You can also tour other attractions like the Les bains de Dinant, and the Leffe Notre Dame Abbey. A lot of Dinant Belgium hotels guarantee incomparable accommodation services. The budget-friendly ibis Dinant Centre has free wifi, a casino, a garden and bar/lounge. Hotel Aquatel offers a perfect location near the train station and the Lesse River. Les Jardins de la Molignee is a 4-star accommodation, which features tennis courts, indoor pool, a restaurant and is even pet-friendly.