waterfall of Reinhardstein

The Waterfall of Reinhardstein is regarded as Belgium's highest cascade, tucked into the Warche river valley right below the walls of Reinhardstein Castle, in the village of Ovifat within the municipality of Robertville, Liège province. The water drops roughly 60 metres down a steep, moss-covered rock face, forming a narrow, ribbon-like cascade rather than a broad, thundering torrent. Dense ancient forest wraps around the ravine, so visitors rarely get to see the entire drop from a single vantage point — the falling water reveals itself in glimpses between tree trunks and rocky outcrops.

Where exactly is the waterfall located?

The site sits within the Hautes Fagnes (High Fens) region, in the German-speaking Community of Belgium, close to the German border. The Warche valley cuts deep into rugged terrain here, and it was on this same rocky ground that Reinhardstein Castle was built in the Middle Ages — its walls still loom over the valley directly above the cascade.

What does the cascade look like?

Unlike broad, gently sloped waterfalls found elsewhere, Reinhardstein's drop follows a near-vertical rocky channel. The water pushes through rock ledges and tangled tree roots, breaking into several smaller steps rather than falling in one even sheet. The damp, shaded surroundings, with moss clinging to every rock, give the spot an almost fairy-tale atmosphere, especially in spring when snowmelt pushes the water level to its highest.

Is it worth combining with another nearby attraction?

Yes — close by, near the village of Longfaye, sits the Bayehon waterfall, about nine metres high and considered Belgium's second-largest. Many visitors combine both sights into a single walking route through the Warche valley and the forests surrounding the Hautes Fagnes plateau.

How do you get to the waterfall?

Access is via a hiking trail that descends into the valley from the area around Reinhardstein Castle. The path can be rocky and slippery, particularly after rain, so sturdy, grippy footwear is recommended. The walk itself is short, but it crosses uneven forest terrain, so it isn't a route suited to those looking for fully paved paths.

Frequently asked questions

Can you see the waterfall from the castle? Partially — some viewpoints near the castle offer a glimpse of the cascade further down the valley, but a full view requires following the trail closer to the riverbed.

Is this really the highest waterfall in Belgium? Yes, the Waterfall of Reinhardstein is considered the country's highest, with a drop of around 60 metres.

Are there other waterfalls worth seeing nearby? Yes, a few kilometres away near the village of Longfaye lies the Bayehon waterfall, Belgium's second-largest, with a height of about nine metres.

When is the best time to visit? Spring, after the snow has melted, and after periods of heavy rain, when the Warche river's flow is strongest and the cascade at its most dramatic.