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Cascade de Coo

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—°6
Cascade de Coo (Belgium)

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The Waterfalls of Coo are located on the Amblève river near Stavelot and, with a drop of 15 meters, are the most famous natural waterfalls in Belgium. Historically, the large waterfall was artificially modified in the 17th century by the monks of Stavelot Abbey to bypass a meander of the Amblève and power a mill at the base of the rock. Geographically, they are situated in the heart of the Ardennes, a region renowned for its deep valleys and dense forests. The cascades consist of two main drops: a smaller one that already existed and the larger main fall created by the river's diversion. Today, the waterfalls are a central tourist destination, complemented by the adjacent Plopsa Coo theme park, which utilizes the natural backdrop. A prominent feature nearby is the Coo-Trois-Ponts hydroelectric power station, a pumped-storage plant that is one of Europe's most important for grid regulation. The surrounding geological structure consists mainly of metamorphic rocks such as slate and quartzite, which have withstood erosion from the Amblève river for millennia. Visitors can view the waterfalls from a bridge or via hiking trails leading to various observation points.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C00481215171713951
Rain mm867672537779849166707890

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Cascade de Coo is a freely accessible waterfall that can be visited at any time of day. There is a well-maintained hiking trail leading directly to the waterfall, suitable for families as well.
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Typical hours
Being a natural wonder, there are no visiting hours. It is recommended to come during daylight for the best view of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape.
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Photography
Photography is allowed and very popular. Bring a tripod for long exposures of the water - best done on overcast days.
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Time needed
Visiting the waterfall typically takes 20-30 minutes, including the short walk. If you also explore the surrounding hiking trails, allow about an hour.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby village of Coo and the Stavelot Abbey. The Amel River and the Ardennes surroundings offer further excursion opportunities.
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Getting there
The waterfall is easily accessible by car; there is a parking lot nearby. Public transport is limited - buses go to Coo, but the last part must be walked.
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Insider tip
Visit the Cascade de Coo after heavy rain when the water flow is greatest and the waterfall is most impressive. Avoid weekends in summer as it can get very crowded.

Geography

Coordinates
50.39200, 5.87700

Facts

  • The waterfalls have a total drop height of approximately 15 meters.
  • The main fall was artificially created by monks in the 17th century.
  • They are located on the Amblève river in the province of Liège.
  • The most important pumped-storage power plant in Belgium is located nearby.
  • The village of Coo belongs to the municipality of Stavelot in the Ardennes.
  • There are two separate falling channels divided by a rocky outcrop.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

CooCoo<1 km · EExplore →
StavelotStavelot4 km · EExplore →
Amblève ValleyAmblève Valley7 km · NExplore →
Amblève RiverAmblève River11 km · NWExplore →
SpaSpa11 km · NExplore →
MalmedyMalmedy11 km · EExplore →
VielsalmVielsalm12 km · SExplore →
Ninglinspo ValleyNinglinspo Valley12 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Cascade de Coo (6)

Abbaye Stavelot⛪ religious

Former Benedictine abbey of great historical significance in Stavelot.

Musée Guillaume Apollinaire🏛 museum

Located in the former Abbey of Stavelot, this museum is dedicated to the life and work of the poet Guillaume Apollinaire.

Plopsaland Ardennes🎡 recreation

A family-friendly theme park with various rides and attractions located right by the Coo waterfall.

Musée Décembre 1944🏛 museum

A museum focusing on the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944 and regional military history.

Château de La Vaulx-Renard🏰 castle

A historic castle estate situated in the scenic landscape of the Belgian Ardennes.

Piscine Extérieure Communale🎡 recreation

Outdoor communal pool near the Coo waterfall.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How high is the Coo Waterfall?
At 15 meters high, it is the most significant waterfall in Belgium.
On which river is the waterfall located?
It is located on the Amblève river in the Ardennes.
Are there activities near the waterfall?
Directly next to it is the Plopsa Coo amusement park.
Is access to the waterfall free?
Yes, the view of the waterfall from the village is freely accessible to everyone.
Can you go kayaking at the waterfall?
Kayaking trips on the Amblève often start below the waterfall.
Cascade de Coo: where is it located?
Cascade de Coo is located in Belgium.
Cascade de Coo: what is there to see?
Highlights include Abbaye Stavelot, Musée Guillaume Apollinaire, Plopsaland Ardennes.
Cascade de Coo: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Cascade de Coo: why is it worth visiting?
The Waterfalls of Coo are located on the Amblève river near Stavelot and, with a drop of 15 meters, are the most famous natural waterfalls in Belgium.
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History & landmarks

Rochefort — Cascade de Coo (Belgium)
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