Bloc magazine summer 25.

19 With its dramatic cliffs, fairy-tale architecture and the winding Meuse River running through its heart, Dinant feels like a scene from a storybook. Towering over the town is the Citadel of Dinant, a formidable fortress offering sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. A cable car ride or a climb up 408 steps rewards visitors with a panoramic vista that captures the town’s unique blend of nature and heritage. Dinant’s gothic Collegiate Church of Notre Dame, with its striking onion-shaped dome, stands as a central landmark, nestled beneath the cliffs. Just beside it is the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone, which adds a quirky cultural twist to the town. Visitors will find saxophone sculptures dotted around, paying tribute to the town’s musical legacy. Summer is the perfect time to enjoy the Meuse River. Kayaking, paddle-boarding, and boat tours offer a refreshing perspective of Dinant’s dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. For nature lovers, the nearby Lesse Valley and the Grotto of Dinant provide excellent hiking and spelunking opportunities. Local cuisine is another highlight - sample a rich wild boar stew or the region’s famed couque de Dinant, a spiced honey biscuit that’s as beautiful as it is tough (you’ll need strong teeth or a dunk in coffee!). Wash it all down with a local Belgian beer on a terrace overlooking the river. Whether you’re seeking quietude, adventure, or simply a slower pace, Dinant offers an enchanting escape. In the golden glow of summer, this hidden gem shines its brightest - waiting to be discovered by those willing to wander off the beaten path.