Nicknamed the pearl of the Ardennes, the quaint town of Spa in the Liège province has been famous for its hot springs since the 14th century. But there’s plenty more than soothing waters on offer, so here’s our pick of some of the best things to do
1 IMAGINE you’re Michael Schumacher at the Spa-Francorchamps Racetrack Museum (abbayedestavelot.be) in nearby Stavelot, which pays homage to the Spa racetrack. The museum, located in Stavelot Abbey’s vaulted cellars, traces the history of the track, which first hosted the Belgian Grand Prix in 1924. Afterwards, view a large-scale model of the track, which will host the Belgian Grand Prix again in 2007.
2 STROLL along the serene Waarfaz, a 6-hectare artificial lake built in 1862. It’s also a great place to rent a pedal boat or go fishing.
3 SPEND THE NIGHT at the Manoir de Lébioles (manoirdelebioles.com), an architectural gem of a castle built in the early 20th century and renovated in recent years. Forget about your cares in the elegant but cosy surroundings and check out the on-site spa, which is due to open in 2007. The icing on the cake is the gourmet restaurant run by acclaimed chef Olivier Tucki.
4 RIFLE through vintage finds at the flea market in the covered Leopold II Gallery at the Parc de Sept-Heures every Sunday from 8am to 1pm. Take time to admire the Gallery, with its 160 columns that support its metal roof and a wooden ceiling originally decorated with gas lanterns. It was built in 1878 and designed by William Hansen.
5 UNWIND at the Thermes de Spa (thermesdespa.be), an oasis of calm featuring 800 sq m of indoor and outdoor pools. It’s open all year round because the water, which comes from the Clementine spring, is a comforting 32ºC. If that’s not enough, there are also saunas, hammams and a Zen-like relaxation room illuminated by a black light – the ideal way to end a visit. Extend your stay by booking a therapeutic bath or massage.
6 TRY YOUR LUCK at the Casino, the oldest in the world, which was opened in 1763 by the prince-bishop of Liège. The current building actually dates back to the early 20th century and features splendid Louis XVI-style games rooms and a festival room reminiscent of Versailles. Doors open at 3pm. The Casino also hosts exhibitions, concerts and the famous annual Francofolies summer music festival (www.francofolies.be).
7 HIT THE SLOPES at the Thier de Rexhons (skispa.be), a popular spot for downhill and cross-country skiing since 1956. The 600-metre-long downhill ramp is nicely sheltered from the wind and there are cross-country pistes of 3km, 5km and 10km. There are also possibilities for snowblading and sledding. Access to the slopes is free and equipment can be rented. Be sure to check the website or call ahead for snow conditions.
8 TAKE THE KIDS to the Animalier de la Reid (parcanimalier.net), a 44-hectare park that’s home to more than 300 animals including brown bears, wild boars and red foxes each in their natural habitats. 
There are around 5km of walking paths through the forests, as well as a pleasant restaurant serving hearty fare with an extensive children’s menu.
9 BE ENTERTAINED at the quirky Laundry Museum: 25 rooms documenting the history of washing techniques from antiquity to present times. The old washing machines on display still work and an exhibition on the history of soap casts a new light on daily chores.
10 PERFECT YOUR SWING at the Royal Golf Club des Fagnes (golf.be/fagnes), one of Belgium’s most picturesque golf courses, featuring open fairways, expansive bunkers and well-defined greens. Designed by Tom Simpson, the club is open every day of the year, except in bad weather, and is accessible to all members of Belgian and international clubs and federations.
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