Every year, from mid-September, Anlier Forest comes alive with a deep, powerful call: the roar of the rutting stags.

This call marks the start of the rutting season, when stags defend their territory and the hinds within it. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a courtship display, but a way for the stag to assert dominance over his territory. Fights between males can be spectacular, set against an almost mystical atmosphere.

By the end of summer, the stags’ antlers lose their velvet covering and become smooth. They will shed after the rut, only to grow back the following summer.

Here in the Ardennes, the stag is the master of our forests, and the rut remains a key period for deer reproduction.

Guided walks that respect wildlife

To experience this special moment, guided walks are organised in Anlier Forest, just a few minutes from the Domaine.

Guests staying at the Domaine during this period can arrange their booking through reception, subject to availability.

Practical Information

Friday 11 September
5 pm · Fauvillers — Maison du Tourisme Cap Sûre Anlier

Saturday 12 September
5 pm · Fauvillers — Maison du Tourisme Cap Sûre Anlier

Wednesday 16 September
5 pm · Fauvillers — Maison du Tourisme Cap Sûre Anlier · FULLY BOOKED

Friday 18 September
5 pm · Fauvillers — Maison du Tourisme Cap Sûre Anlier
8 pm · Grapfontaine — Cercles des Naturalistes de Belgique
8 pm · Anlier — Nature Attitude / CRIE d’Anlier

Saturday 19 September
6 am · Habay-la-Neuve — Habay Tourisme · FULLY BOOKED
5 pm · Fauvillers — Maison du Tourisme Cap Sûre Anlier · FULLY BOOKED
8 pm · Anlier — Nature Attitude / CRIE d’Anlier

Wednesday 23 September
5 pm · Fauvillers — Maison du Tourisme Cap Sûre Anlier
7:30 pm · Martelange — Parc naturel Haute-Sûre Forêt d’Anlier

Friday 25 September
5 pm · Fauvillers — Maison du Tourisme Cap Sûre Anlier
8 pm · Anlier — Nature Attitude / CRIE d’Anlier
8 pm · Grapfontaine — Cercles des Naturalistes de Belgique
8 pm · Vlessart — Anim’Vlessart

Saturday 26 September
6 am · Habay-la-Neuve — Habay Tourisme · FULLY BOOKED
5 pm · Fauvillers — Maison du Tourisme Cap Sûre Anlier · FULLY BOOKED
8 pm · Anlier — Nature Attitude / CRIE d’Anlier

Sunday 27 September
5 pm · Fauvillers — Maison du Tourisme Cap Sûre Anlier

Walking in the forest is regulated during this period: please follow the guidelines in place.

For any questions, feel free to contact us.

Photo credit: WBT – Martin Dellicour