Sunday, February 1, 2009

...Part IV, Final weekend and the Ardennes

Final Weekend- The Ardennes
Saturday we got the opportunity to have a private tour of the National Park of Furfooz in the southern part of Belgium. My friend's cousin was kind enough to take us around the park and the area highlights. The park was incredible. We saw a Roman bath house, Roman wall, and limestone caves that were inhabited by Neanderthals. Now anyone who knows me will know that I was in nerd heaven! Our tour guide was so knowledgeable and passionate about the area's history. Here's a view from within a cave, overlooking the valley below. 
Here's part of a Roman wall. The area was a key defensive military site for the Roman Empire. 
One of the caves pours out steam which is delightful in the winter. We didn't want to leave!
This cave was actually inhabited during the Paleolithic. Archaeologists found neanderthal remains here over one hundred years ago. 
We tracked up and down over limestone hills and valleys, covered beautifully in snow and ice. 
A final shot of one of my favorite things that Belgium has to offer- pastries. They truly know how to make sweets in that they are never too sugary. Aside from my best friends, this is what I miss most about Belgium. 
We had the most wonderful time. It was an unforgettable trip, creating memories as a couple with my best friends. We wouldn't have changed a thing and are already looking forward to the next time we will see each other.