Xhoffraix: The authentic charm of a village at the foot of the Fens

Perched on the heights of the municipality of Malmedy at nearly 500 metres altitude, Xhoffraix is a characterful village typical of the High Fens region. Surrounded by pastures lined with beech hedges and vast forest woodlands, this haven of peace offers a pastoral getaway ideal for recharging your batteries. Situated right on the edge of the High Fens Nature Reserve, Xhoffraix captivates visitors with its quiet atmosphere, local stone houses, and direct access to breathtaking wild landscapes.

Home » Régions » Xhoffraix: The authentic charm of a village at the foot of the Fens

A paradise for hikers and lovers of wide open spaces:

From the heart of the village, a multitude of waymarked trails leads you to discover unspoiled nature:

The Pouthon & Bayehon Valleys: Ravines and steep valleys take you along mountain streams and through unique flora.
The Warche Valley: Impressive routes wind between rocky cliffs with spectacular views of Reinhardstein Castle.
Direct access to the Fens: Quick access to the high bog plateaus, famous boardwalk trails, and iconic peaks (Grande Fagne, Noir Flohay).
Winter snow fun: When snow blankets the plateau, the forests around Xhoffraix turn into a fairy-tale landscape, perfect for winter walks and cross-country skiing.

Gîte host tip 💡

« Xhoffraix is the dream starting location if you want to lace up your hiking boots and step right onto the region’s finest trails! We highly recommend taking the trail down into the Pouthon valley towards the “Devil’s Bridge” — the sound of running water, crisp forest air under the tall trees, and total calm make it one of our absolute favorite hikes to unwind. »

Practical information

Location: Village located in the municipality of Malmedy (4960), situated between Malmedy and the High Fens plateau.

Amenities: Local bakery/grocery store, welcoming brasseries, starting points for marked hiking trails right in the village center.

Getting there: Just a few minutes’ drive from our gîtes, or directly accessible on foot/by bike via regional hiking paths.

Where to stay nearby ?

Our holiday homes and chalets nearby

Le Roannay

Booking via Request Form

Chalets Hautes-Fagnes

Xhoffraix

1 Sdb

Le Milan Royal

Instant Booking

Maisons de Vacances

Xhoffraix

9 Sdb

Le Lonlou

Booking via Request Form

Chalets Hautes-Fagnes

Mont

1 Sdb

Le Brochepierre

Instant Booking

Maisons de Vacances

Xhoffraix

10 Sdb

La Chaume du Faing

Instant Booking

Maisons de Vacances

Xhoffraix

1 Sdb

Le Moupa

Booking via Request Form

Chalets Hautes-Fagnes

Mont

2 Sdb

Les Trois Hêtres

Booking via Request Form

Chalets Hautes-Fagnes

Mont

6 Sdb

Le Loup Gris

Instant Booking

Maisons de Vacances

Bütgenbach

12 Sdb

Bonheur de la Cascade

Instant Booking

Maisons de Vacances

Malmedy

8 Sdb

L’Aurore des Hautes-Fagnes

Instant Booking

Maisons de Vacances

Xhoffraix

12 Sdb

More adventures just around the corner! !

Want to see everything the region has to offer?

Au Petit Chef: The gourmet institution in the heart of Malmedy

Gastronomy

If you ask the locals of Malmedy for their favorite spot for traditional cuisine, the name Au Petit Chef will inevitably pop up. Located on the Place de Rome, this family-run restaurant is an essential stop for guests staying at our gîtes who are seeking authenticity. Whether you feel like enjoying a refined brasserie dish or visiting the “best chip shop in the area”, Ardennes hospitality truly comes to life here.

The Cwarmê of Malmedy: An ancestral carnival unique in the world

Folklore & Events

If you are lucky enough to stay in one of our gîtes during the “Four Fat Days”, you will experience Malmedy at its most vibrant. Recognized as Intangible Cultural Heritage of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, the Cwarmê is far more than a simple carnival: it is an explosion of colour, music, and centuries-old traditions that have set the rhythm of local life for generations.

AT Bike Malmedy: Two-wheeled adventure in the High Fens

Sports & Adventure

To discover the diversity of our landscapes while enjoying an invigorating sport activity, hiring a bike is a fantastic option. Located right next to our gîte, AT Bike is the local expert for renting high-quality mountain bikes or electric bikes. Whether you want to conquer the elevation changes of the Warche valley or glide effortlessly along the RAVeL trails, you will find the perfect ride.

Baraque Michel: The gourmet and comforting stopover at the summit of the Fens

Gastronomy

Situated at nearly 674 meters altitude, Baraque Michel is a famous gathering place and an essential gourmet stopover in the heart of the High Fens Nature Reserve. In a warm, wooden mountain atmosphere, the establishment serves generous cuisine inspired by local produce. It is the perfect place to gather with family or recharge after a long fresh-air walk, close to our Maisons de Vacances and Chalets Hautes-Fagnes.

The Carnival Workshop: Immersing in the soul of Malmedy

Museums & Culture

Welcome to the heart of local folklore! Far more than a simple museum tour, the Carnival Workshop at the Malmundarium is a sensory celebration dedicated to the Cwarmê, Malmedy’s famous carnival. Set beneath the magnificent wooden beams of the former abbey, this interactive space brings to life the passion that drives the town every year. Step into a world of vibrant colors, ringing bells, and traditional masks, located just moments away from our Maisons de Vacances and Chalets Hautes-Fagnes.

Recht Slate Mine (Schieferstollen): An unusual journey underground

Family Activities

Looking for a refreshing, mysterious, and history-filled outing? Head to the charming village of Recht to visit the Slate Mine (Schieferstollen). Equipped with a safety helmet, step under the rocks to explore underground galleries hand-carved by miners since the 18th century to extract the famous local blue stone. It is a highly original experience to share with family, very close to our Maisons de Vacances and Chalets Hautes-Fagnes!

Maison Villers: A journey into 18th-century Malmedy

Museums & Culture

Located in the heart of Malmedy, this merchant town house stands as one of the best-preserved testimonies of local heritage. Featuring carved woodwork, Delft tiles, and an authentic period atmosphere, it offers a memorable historic retreat for families staying near our Maisons de Vacances and Chalets Hautes-Fagnes.

Reinhardstein Castle: A medieval journey in the heart of the High Fens

Museums & Culture

Overlooking the Warche valley, this historic gem is the highest castle in Belgium. Between guided tours, walks around the Robertville dam lake, and defensive architecture, enjoy a total immersion into the Middle Ages during your stay near our Maisons de Vacances and Chalets Hautes-Fagnes.

Dream Walk No. 07: Lake Bütgenbach Loop Trail

Nature & Hiking

Looking for the perfect blend of water and woodland scenery? Dream Walk No. 07 is a top-rated circular trail that takes you all the way around Lake Bütgenbach. Awarded for its route quality and natural beauty, this 10 km loop immerses you in a landscape worthy of a Scandinavian postcard, just a few kilometres from our accommodations.

The Giant Omelette: A world-famous gourmet event in Malmedy

Folklore & Events

Every August 15th, the Place de Rome in Malmedy transforms into the stage for an unusual and delicious spectacle: the cooking of the Giant Omelette. Hosted by the Confrérie Mondiale des Chevaliers de l’Omelette Géante, this festive event attracts thousands of curious visitors from around the world to share a joyful gathering around a monumental frying pan.

Nearby towns & villages

Discover the best places to explore around your holiday rental.

Monschau: A journey through time in a postcard setting

Nestled in a narrow Eifel valley, just across the Belgian border, Monschau (Montjoie) is a true architectural gem. Crisscrossed by the Rur River, the town has preserved an exceptional collection of 18th-century half-timbered houses and winding cobbled alleys at the foot of its imposing medieval castle. It makes the perfect day trip for a romantic and refreshing getaway just minutes from your gîte.

Malmedy: The vibrant and gourmet heart at the foot of the High Fens

Nestled in the valleys of the Warche and Warchenne rivers, Malmedy is a dynamic town that instantly charms visitors with its warm lifestyle, friendliness, and stunning natural surrounding. As a true gateway to the High Fens, the city of Malmedy beautifully combines a rich historical heritage with a thriving commercial and cultural scene. It is the perfect hub to enjoy shopping, taste local delicacies, or immerse yourself in warm local folklore during your stay.