Relive the Battle of Waterloo as if you were there thanks to the Van der Valk Nivelles-Sud hotel

On June 18, 1815, the plains of Waterloo became the scene of a decisive battle. Napoleon Bonaparte, who had returned to power a few months earlier, faced allied forces led by the Duke of Wellington, joined by the Prussian army under Marshal Blücher.

In just one day, the fate of Europe was turned. Napoleon's defeat ended his reign and marked the end of an era. Since then, Waterloo has become a universally known name, a symbol of a major historical turning point.

Today, visiting Waterloo is not just about discovering a battlefield. It's about walking in the footsteps of a foundational moment, understanding the stakes of an era, imagining the movement of the troops, the tension of the battle, and the lasting impact of that day on European history.

Also enjoy your visit to the region by exploring the majestic trails of the Sonian Forest, a true green lung at the gates of Waterloo. It’s the perfect complement to your stay: after an immersion in history at the famous Lion's Mound, treat your mom to a moment of serenity under the ancient beeches or an afternoon shopping in the elegant center of Waterloo. A refined getaway for an unforgettable Mother's Day in the south of Brussels.

The weekend of June 27 and 28, 2026, the reenactment of the Battle of Waterloo promises a unique immersion. At the site of the Waterloo 1815 Battle Domain and around the emblematic places of the clash, visitors can discover a rich, lively and accessible program.

Hundreds of reenactors will bring the Napoleonic era to life through reenactment shows, military bivouacs, a civilian village, and demonstrations. On Saturday, visitors can particularly enjoy the opening of the bivouacs and the civilian village before attending the reenactment show in the evening. On Sunday, a second show is planned in the morning, followed again by the opening of the animation spaces.

The experience appeals to both history enthusiasts and families. The youngest discover the battle in a concrete and visual way, far from school books. Adults appreciate the precision of the costumes, the richness of the explanations, and the impressive atmosphere that emanates from the site.

It's an outing that is both cultural, spectacular, and deeply rooted in Belgian heritage.

It is impossible to talk about the Battle of Waterloo without mentioning Napoleon. A fascinating, controversial, and unavoidable figure, the Emperor remains at the center of the collective imagination related to Waterloo. Napoleon's Last Headquarters, located in Vieux-Genappe, allows for an approach to the last hours leading up to the battle and a better understanding of the context of that historic day.

Another must-see place: the Lion's Mound. This emblematic monument dominates the battlefield and offers an impressive view of the surrounding plains. Climbing its steps is like gaining perspective on History. From the top, one better grasps the scale of the site and the strategic importance of the locations.

Nearby, the 1815 Memorial, the Panorama, and the Hougoumont Farm complete the visit. Hougoumont, in particular, holds a central place in the story of the battle. This strategic location was the scene of intense fighting and remains one of the highlights of the discovery today.

By combining the reenactment, the Lion, the Memorial, Hougoumont, and Napoleon's Last Headquarters, you experience a complete journey between live performance, heritage, and memory.

To enjoy the reenactment of Waterloo without stress, the choice of accommodation is essential. The Van der Valk Nivelles-Sud hotel offers a convenient, comfortable, and pleasant starting point for organizing your getaway.

Easily accessible from Brussels, Charleroi, Mons, Namur, or Louvain-la-Neuve, the hotel allows you to reach the Waterloo sites while enjoying the calm and comfort of Nivelles. It’s an ideal solution for those who want to extend their visit over two days, avoid long journeys, and fully enjoy the event.

After a day exploring the bivouacs, attending the reenactment, or climbing up to the Lion of Waterloo, you return to the comfort of a modern and welcoming hotel. Spacious rooms, restaurant, brasserie, cocktail bar, wellness area, fitness, seasonal pool, large free parking, and charging stations: everything is designed to make your stay simple and enjoyable.

The Van der Valk Nivelles-Sud hotel is not limited to a practical night. It transforms your historical visit into a true moment of relaxation.

To discover the reenactment of the Battle of Waterloo, two Van der Valk addresses can perfectly meet the desires of visitors.

The Van der Valk Waterloo hotel will appeal to those who wish to stay directly in Waterloo, close to the atmosphere of the battlefield and historical sites. It's an ideal option for immediate immersion in the world of the battle.

The Van der Valk Nivelles-Sud hotel offers a particularly interesting alternative for visitors who wish to combine the event with a more comprehensive getaway in Walloon Brabant. Its accessibility, large parking, relaxation areas, restaurant, and comfort make it an excellent choice for a historical weekend without compromise.

From Nivelles, you reach the emblematic places of Waterloo while enjoying a pleasant setting to rest after the visit.

The reenactment of the Battle of Waterloo is much more than a historical event. It is a rare opportunity to experience History differently, discover an exceptional site, and share a memorable moment with loved ones.

On June 27 and 28, 2026, Walloon Brabant will vibrate to the rhythm of Napoleon, the soldiers in uniform, the horses, the cannons, and the stories that shaped Europe. By staying at the Van der Valk Nivelles-Sud hotel, you enjoy a comfortable base to fully experience this unique weekend.

Between the Lion of Waterloo, Hougoumont Farm, Napoleon's Last Headquarters, the bivouacs, and the reenactment shows, your stay takes on a dimension that is both cultural, immersive, and relaxing.

Book your getaway at the Van der Valk Nivelles-Sud hotel and relive the Battle of Waterloo up close, in the best conditions.