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Observation deck · Bouillon, Luxemburgo
Tombeau du Géant
Viewpoint overlooking an almost complete loop of the Semois around a wooded hill, near Botassart. It is a landscape classified as exceptional heritage of Valônia.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Tombeau du Géant
The Tombeau du Géant, the Tomb of the Giant, is a long, forest-covered hill that rises about 30 metres above the Semois. The river makes an almost complete loop around it. From the viewpoint on the upper slope near the village of Botassart, the scene is river, woodland and meadows on the valley floor.
The name comes from a legend. A giant warrior of the Treveri people is said to have fought the Romans and, after defeat, thrown himself from the rock rather than be taken as a prisoner to the arenas of Rome. Another version says the hill hides the spine of a huge iguanodont, petrified when the sea receded.
The site is classified as exceptional heritage of Valônia and lies within the Parque Nacional do Vale do Semois. Botassart, the neighbouring village, has a 1625 castle and a chapel with tombstones of the former lords of the place.
The viewpoint is close to the car park. Those who want more can descend to the riverbank via trails of various lengths, from about 5 km to almost 14 km, through the forest and the valley villages.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half an hour to the viewpoint. Trails that descend to the river take two to five hours depending on the route.
Best time
In autumn, when the treetops turn copper in contrast with the river, and in late afternoon, with side light in the valley. On foggy days the river's curve can disappear.
How to get there
By car, it's a few kilometres from Bouillon, near Botassart, with parking beside the viewpoint. Some trails start at the Moulin du Rivage, in the valley bottom. There is no regular public transport.
Tip
For the long trail, which passes the rocks and the Semois ford, use a maps app because part of the route is not well signposted. On summer weekends the car park fills up early.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Tombeau du Géant
What is the legend of the Túmulo do Gigante?
Tradition says that a giant warrior of the tréveros, defeated by the Romans, threw himself from the rock rather than be taken to the arenas of Rome, and that the hill would be his tomb.
Do you need to hike to see the view?
No. From the parking to the viewpoint the walk is short. Trails are optional, for those who want to descend to the river.