As we skipped across the road from the car park we noticed fiery clusters of fall leaves hung around an open terrace dotted with bright red and white Maredsous umbrellas. A sprinkle of customers and locals lounged on the warm terrace in the long awaited sun. This was a perfect place to leisurely sample the local brew. We planted ourselves in the comfy wicker chairs and on second thought a nosh sounded good, as a pleasant waitress delivered a two-sided menu along with our beer. She lingered and unhurriedly answered all our nosy questions about the Family Verbon, owners of the Hotel Restaurant. Impressively she spoke French, Dutch, German, and English.

Our gaze wandered as she pointed out the amenities of the hotel. To the right of the terrace a huge beer garden stretched to the river where the camps grounds began. To the left a new French fry wagon had opened it doors. Across the bustling road, bikes stood ready for hire. Our family-run hotel-restaurant had seven rooms for rent at 46 euro, including breakfast. At the intersection hiking signs displayed the numerous choices of hiking and biking trails with kilometer and hour designations. At each corner of the crossroads stood a hotel, restaurant, along with a gift shop. Not far down the road were two castles to explore.

Our nosh arrived hot and toasty along with a tasty brew. Asparagus soup arrived steaming in a clay pot to hold the heat. Creamy and thick with pulp the soup was invigorating on this chilly day. The scarce sun had only broken the heavy clouds to brighten this lazy stop. A crisp toasted ham and cheese sandwich was served on the side and I munched away while Robert peppered our waitress with questions. After lunch, Ms. Verbon gave a quick tour of the hotel, which reminded us of a hunting lodge. Knotty paneling covered the lobby, hung with animal head trophies. Warm coverlets were spread across massive couches and chairs. Flowers sprang from every table. Rustic charming and a little basic would describe the rooms, but all facilities were there.

Other diners had chosen the full three-course menu and were still enjoying their lunch when we left. We notice the same wonderful soup, along with a crisp roast served with potatoes and carrots and a fluffily desert being served with coffee. We had all this for 25 euro per person. Our little nosh topped out at around 12 euro. Remember most of the time this includes tipping. On the menu were all manner of sandwiches, soups, full course dinners, ice cream, beer, wine, and some very friendly and helpful owners. They will accept all credit cards and have a website.