Row of colourful supercars on the track at Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps in the Ardennes, Belgium

🇧🇪Spa-Francorchamps

Spa-Francorchamps combines the iconic Formula 1 circuit, Ardennes forest adventures, natural waterfalls, and the wellness heritage of the town of Spa for a genuinely varied family trip.

Your family guide

Spa-Francorchamps with kids: racing legends, forest adventures and Belgian charm

Formula 1 roars and Ardennes quiet. Spa-Francorchamps combines speed with proper forest time.

— San & Jo

Spa-Francorchamps delivers on multiple fronts. Car-mad kids will be captivated by the legendary Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps, one of the most iconic Formula 1 tracks in the world. Meanwhile, parents can breathe in the fresh Ardennes air and experience the region's famous wellness tradition.

The town of Spa itself is elegant and unhurried, full of charming streets, chocolate shops, and historic architecture. A short drive away, dense forests open up into hiking trails, waterfalls, and adventure parks. It is a genuinely versatile destination: you can pack your days with activity or slow right down, and both approaches feel completely right here.

What makes Spa-Francorchamps special for families is how naturally everything sits together. History, nature, motorsport, food, and relaxation are all within easy reach of each other. You are not ticking boxes here. You are actually enjoying yourselves.

Ardennes, BelgiumProvince of Liège
May to SeptemberBest time to visit
Forest and circuitNature meets motorsport

Best things to do

Best things to do in Spa-Francorchamps

Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps

This is the main event for any family with a racing fan in tow. The circuit was designed in 1920 and was one of only seven tracks included in Formula 1's inaugural championship in 1950. You can visit the museum, and on certain days your family can actually drive on the circuit itself. It is a genuinely thrilling experience even if nobody in your group has ever watched a race.

Book a circuit drive in advance, spots fill up fast
1-3 hours

Musée du Circuit at Stavelot Abbey

Tucked inside the vaulted cellars of one of Belgium's oldest monasteries, this museum brings the circuit's history to life with historic race cars, motorbikes, and fascinating exhibits. Stavelot Abbey itself dates back to 651 and is worth exploring beyond the museum, including its gardens and exhibitions. Admission to the abbey is €7.

Combine with a walk around Stavelot village
1-2 hours

Les Cascades de Coo

Belgium's largest natural waterfall is a short drive from the circuit and makes for a great family outing. The waterfall itself is impressive and photogenic, and there is a small amusement park nearby that younger children will enjoy. It is the kind of spontaneous stop that ends up being a highlight of the trip.

Go early to beat the summer crowds at the amusement park
2-3 hours

SpaForest Adventure Park

Set right in the Ardennes forest, SpaForest is brilliant for families who want to burn some energy. Tree climbing, ziplines, mountain biking, archery, and electric scooters are all on offer. It is the kind of place where kids arrive uncertain and leave absolutely buzzing. Check their website for height and age requirements on specific activities.

Wear clothes you do not mind getting muddy
Half day

Parc de Sept Heures

This elegant 18th-century park in the heart of Spa is a lovely spot for a relaxed family afternoon. The famous Galerie Léopold II is a 130-metre covered walkway with a distinctly aristocratic feel. In summer, the park offers minigolf and pony rides, which makes it a genuinely good option for younger children between bigger activities.

Perfect for a post-lunch stroll with a waffle in hand
1-2 hours

High Fens-Eifel Nature Park

Belgium's largest and oldest nature reserve sits right on the doorstep of Spa-Francorchamps. The High Fens plateau is home to rare moorland wildlife and sweeping, open landscapes that feel completely different from the forested valleys below. Hiking and cycling routes are extensive and well-marked, making it a great choice for active families.

Stick to marked boardwalk paths to protect the fragile moorland
Half day to full day

Franchimont Castle

This 11th-century medieval castle offers panoramic views over three valleys and is the kind of ruin that sparks real imagination in children. Clambering around the old walls and towers is genuinely fun, and the views from the top are worth the walk up. It is an easy and rewarding half-morning out.

Great for kids who love history and outdoor exploration
1-2 hours

Our verdict

How Spa-Francorchamps scores for families

Kids

Between the circuit, the waterfall, the adventure park, and the castle ruins, kids have a genuinely great time here. There is real variety across age groups.

Culture

Stavelot Abbey, Franchimont Castle, and the casino town of Spa itself offer a solid dose of history and character without feeling like a school trip.

Food

Liège waffles, hearty Ardennes game dishes, and great Belgian frites make this a genuinely tasty region. Restaurants near the circuit cater well to families.

Nature

The Ardennes forest and High Fens nature park are spectacular. This is one of the greener, wilder corners of Belgium and it shows.

Budget

Mid-range to premium, especially during race weekends. Prices around the circuit and in Spa town reflect the destination's popularity. Plan ahead to get good value.

Planning your visit

How long should you stay in Spa-Francorchamps?

1

1 day

Quick visit

The circuit museum and a walk through Spa town, with a Liège waffle to finish.

sweet spot
3

3 days

Sweet spot

Enough time for the circuit, Coo waterfalls, SpaForest, and a relaxed evening in town.

5

5 days

Deep dive

Add Stavelot Abbey, Franchimont Castle, a hike in the High Fens, and proper time to unwind.

Fun facts

Things to know about Spa-Francorchamps

The word 'spa' started here

The town of Spa is so famous for its mineral-rich spring waters that it literally gave its name to wellness resorts all over the world. Every time someone says they are going to a spa, they are referencing this small Belgian town.

One of the original Formula 1 circuits

When Formula 1 held its very first championship in 1950, only seven circuits in the world were considered good enough to host a race. Spa-Francorchamps was one of them. The circuit was already 30 years old by then, having been designed back in 1920.

The world's first beauty pageant happened here

In 1888, Spa hosted the very first beauty pageant ever recorded in history. The town was already a glamorous destination for European aristocracy at the time, and the event attracted contestants from across the continent.

Taste Spa-Francorchamps

What to eat with your family in Spa-Francorchamps

Liège Waffle

Liège Waffle

Must try

Local bakeries throughout Spa town

This is not the flat, crispy waffle you might know from elsewhere. The Liège waffle is thick, chewy, and made from brioche-style dough packed with pearl sugar that caramelises on the outside. It is a genuine regional speciality and completely irresistible warm from the iron. Grab one from any of the bakeries in Spa town.

Steak on a Stone

Steak on a Stone

Kids love it

Domino Steak House, Francorchamps

Domino Steak House right by the circuit is a firm favourite with Formula 1 fans and families alike. You cook your own steak on a hot stone at the table, which kids absolutely love. Burgers are also on the menu for anyone who prefers something simpler.

Pizza and Pasta

Pizza and Pasta

Safe choice

Acqua Rossa, Francorchamps

Acqua Rossa in Francorchamps is a lively Italian restaurant that is popular with race fans and families. The pizza and pasta are reliably good, the atmosphere is fun, and it stays open late on race weekends. A solid, unfussy choice when everyone is hungry after a day at the circuit.

Ardennes Game Dishes

Ardennes Game Dishes

Local favourite

Various restaurants throughout the Ardennes region

Wild boar, roe deer, and pheasant feature on menus across the region during hunting season. These hearty, flavourful dishes are deeply rooted in Ardennes food culture. If your family is up for trying something local and genuinely delicious, this is the one to order.

Modern French-Belgian Cuisine

Modern French-Belgian Cuisine

Must try

La Cour de la Reine, Spa

La Cour de la Reine in Spa is a Michelin-recognised restaurant serving refined modern French cuisine using Belgian ingredients. The setting is glamorous and lounge-style. It is a great option for a special family dinner when you want to treat yourselves.

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