Romantic Brabant Day Trip: Spa of Genval and Villers Abbey

Planning a day trip that balances relaxation with a touch of history? If that sounds appealing, the Romantic Brabant Day Trip might be just what you need. This tour promises a peaceful escape from Brussels, combining a luxurious spa experience, a visit to one of Europe’s most captivating abbey ruins, and a dive into the historic Battle of Waterloo. It’s tailored more for couples or anyone looking to unwind while soaking up some culture and history.

What really catches our eye about this experience? First, the luxury spa session for two at Spa Ô Siam Genval, offering a chance to relax in style. Second, the visit to Villers Abbey, which is both beautiful and historically significant. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that it’s a fairly full day with a lot packed in—so it might feel rushed if you prefer slow, in-depth exploration. Overall, it seems best suited for those who enjoy a mix of leisure and learning without overextending themselves.

If you’re someone who appreciates a well-rounded day—combining comfort, scenic views, and history—this could be a perfect fit. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with a partner or simply want a taste of Belgium’s quieter, countryside charm with the bonus of cultural insights.

Key Points

• Luxury Spa for Two offers relaxation with hammam, sauna, and jacuzzi.
• Historic Villers Abbey is a beautifully preserved Cistercian ruin with centuries of history.
• The Gourmet Lunch at a renowned countryside restaurant elevates the entire experience.
• Visit the Waterloo Battlefield, including Lion’s Mound and historic sites, to understand a pivotal moment in European history.
• Private transportation ensures a smooth, stress-free day with pick-up right from your Brussels accommodation.
• The tour is tailored for couples, making it a romantic and peaceful escape, but not suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility issues.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting with Serenity at Spa of Genval

The day kicks off with what sounds like a true treat: a luxurious spa experience designed for two. You’ll get access to a hammam, sauna, and jacuzzi—perfect for unwinding after any travel or just setting a relaxed tone for the day. This part is especially popular among travelers seeking genuine moments of calm, and reviews highlight how soothing and well-maintained the facilities are. It’s a good chance to shake off any early morning travel fatigue and enjoy some quiet, intimate time together.

A Gourmet Lunch in the Countryside

Post-spa, you’ll head to a renowned gastronomic restaurant, where each dish is presented as a masterpiece. While the specific restaurant name isn’t provided, the emphasis on quality and presentation suggests a high-end experience. This is a highlight for food lovers who enjoy savoring local flavors in a refined setting. The meal acts as a nice pause, giving you energy for the rest of the day’s adventures.

Exploring Villers Abbey

Next, you’ll wander through the venerable ruins of Villers Abbey, founded in 1146. The site’s gothic architecture and tranquil atmosphere make it one of Europe’s most evocative Cistercian sites. Historically, the monks who lived here were tied to figures like Bernard de Clairvaux and Hildegarde of Bingen, giving the ruins a spiritual and cultural depth. Visitors often mention how hauntingly beautiful the remains are, with some comparing the ambiance to a romantic ruin beloved by Victor Hugo.

Walking around, you’ll see the abbey church, cloisters, and the lavatorium—each space telling stories of monastic life, spirituality, and centuries of change. The site’s evolution from a sacred community to a scenic ruin adds to its charm, making it especially appealing for history buffs and romantics alike.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Waterloo Battlefield and Historic Sites

The final major stop takes you back to June 18, 1815, at the Waterloo battlefield. The tour includes visits to Lion’s Mound, Hougoumont Farm, and La Haye Sainte—key sites from Napoleon’s last stand. The guide shares engaging stories of courage, strategy, and sacrifice, which can make the historical events come alive.

You’ll get a sense of the scale and gravity of the battle, standing where history was made. The Lion’s Mound, in particular, offers impressive views and a tangible connection to the past, giving you a chance to reflect on one of Europe’s most defining moments.

Practical Details & Logistics

All transportation is arranged for you—private, air-conditioned, and direct from your Brussels accommodation—so you won’t have to worry about logistics. The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full but manageable day. It’s worth noting that the tour caters mainly to private groups and is available in both French and English, with bilingual guides on request.

Booking in advance is essential for spa and restaurant reservations, and the tour can be tailored for special occasions like birthdays or proposals, which adds a romantic touch. However, it’s important to remember that children under 12 and those with mobility issues might find the day challenging, given the walking involved and the nature of the sites.

The Value for the Traveler

While the overall cost isn’t specified, the package’s inclusions—luxury spa, gourmet lunch, private transportation, and guided visits—point toward a premium experience. The reviews highlight the stunning views and peaceful atmosphere as particular highlights, making this trip more about quality and atmosphere than about ticking off a bucket list.

The tour offers a balanced mix: a relaxing start, enriching cultural stops, and a meaningful historical experience. For travelers who prefer to indulge in comfort while still engaging with local history and scenery, this experience hits the mark.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is ideal for couples, or those traveling with a partner, seeking a romantic, relaxed day that combines leisure with a touch of history. It’s perfect if you enjoy well-curated experiences with plenty of beautiful scenery and want to avoid the hassle of planning individual tickets or transportation. Those interested in history will appreciate the Waterloo sites, but the overall pace might be a touch brisk for serious history buffs wanting more in-depth exploration.

It’s not suited for children under 12 or travelers with mobility challenges due to the walking and site terrain. If you’re after a slow, in-depth culture or family-friendly activities, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 8 hours, making it a full day but still manageable in one go.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private round-trip transportation is arranged from your Brussels accommodation, ensuring a relaxed and seamless journey.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour can be personalized for special occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or surprise proposals, adding a personal touch.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must since there will be walking, along with a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water to stay comfortable and capture memories.

Is this suitable for children?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or travelers with mobility issues, due to the walking and site terrain.

How do I confirm reservations?
Spa and restaurant bookings must be made in advance, and the tour itself can be booked with the option to pay later, offering flexibility for your plans.

What languages are available?
Guides are available in English and French, with bilingual options on request to suit your language preferences.

Final Thoughts

The Romantic Brabant Day Trip presents a well-rounded day, blending relaxation, scenic beauty, and history in a way that’s both manageable and memorable. It’s particularly suited for couples or anyone wanting to enjoy a peaceful yet engaging experience outside Brussels. The highlights—stunning views at Villers Abbey, a thoughtful history of Waterloo, and the pampering spa—make it a compelling choice for those who value quality over quantity.

While it’s not a deep dive into each site, the curated nature of this experience means you’ll leave feeling relaxed, inspired, and with a richer understanding of this beautiful region. If a day of indulgence paired with cultural discovery sounds like your kind of trip, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: