Plizio Visual Lab

Lake Gileppe

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

Lake Gileppe is not only a masterpiece of water management but also a significant historical monument in the province of Liège. The dam was completed in 1878 according to the designs of engineer Eugène Bidaut, making it the oldest large dam in Belgium and one of the oldest in all of Europe. It was originally constructed to supply soft, pure water to the thriving wool and textile industry in the nearby city of Verviers. The lake's most striking landmark is undoubtedly the gigantic stone lion, standing 13.5 meters tall and weighing 130 tons, that sits majestically atop the dam wall. Designed by sculptor Félix Antoine Bouré, the lion historically faced the Prussian border, serving as a symbol of strength and vigilance. Today, the site features a 77-meter-high observation tower that provides a sweeping 360-degree panoramic view of the lake and the vast Hertogenwald forest.

Location: Belgium
Top sights: Accropark · Château de Goé · Église Saint-Lambert
Nearby: Eupen (6 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	0	0	4	8	12	15	17	17	13	9	5	1
Rain mm	86	76	72	53	77	79	84	91	66	70	78	90

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The area is typically accessed via regional roads winding through the nearby forests toward the monumental dam. Local tourist signage generally provides clear directions to the main visitor facilities and the iconic lion statue.

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Best season

Summer and early autumn are usually well-suited for long, pleasant walks around the extensive forested perimeter. Spring is also generally a wonderful time to visit, offering fresh greenery and comfortable hiking temperatures.

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Terrain & paths

The route around the water consists mostly of wide, unpaved forest tracks that are generally well-maintained. While mostly flat, the sheer distance of the complete loop requires a decent level of basic walking endurance.

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What to bring

Good quality walking or running shoes are highly recommended for the long, predominantly gravel and dirt paths. Given the distance of the full loop, carrying sufficient water and some light snacks is usually a smart precaution.

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Parking

An expansive, dedicated parking area is normally located right at the visitor complex near the main dam structure. This general starting point provides immediate access to the panoramic viewpoints and the main trailheads.

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Safety

When walking the long perimeter, it is generally wise to keep track of the time to avoid finishing in the dark. Visitors should always respect the strict regulations regarding water access, as swimming is typically prohibited here.

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Time needed

Completing the full hiking circuit around the lake generally takes anywhere from three to five hours of steady walking. Those merely visiting the dam and the famous stone lion usually spend about one to two hours on-site.