A Fairy Tale Escape to Durbuy: Discovering the World's Smallest City

I'm not sure if you're like me, but I absolutely adore places that feel like they’ve been plucked straight out of a fairy tale. Once, I was even blessed enough to call such a place my home. 

Now, I live miles away from there, but I’m always on the hunt for spots that bring that same kind of enchantment to life. 

The serene beauty of Durbuy Castle, as seen from the bank of the Ourthe River, captures the timeless elegance of this historic gem. A perfect blend of nature and architecture.

My discovery of Durbuy happened back in February 2023, although I can't quite remember how it came onto my radar. I guess it being a short drive from the south of the Netherlands - just 2.5 hours away - played a big part. When you’re raising kids in a country that's not your own, without a big family network to support you, you find yourself considering all the small details, like keeping travel time short just in case.

Durbuy, with its claim to fame as the "smallest city in the world," packs a whole lot of character into its tiny size. Nestled in Wallonia, Belgium, it's not just its quaint historic center that draws people in, but also the promise of adventure with walking, mountain biking, canoeing, and kayaking, plus more laid-back countryside pursuits for those of us who are into that.

Since the pandemic hit, I've steered clear of busy spots, so discovering Durbuy in the quiet of February felt like striking gold. The town was slowly waking from its winter slumber, showing off the first whispers of spring, with just enough people around to make it feel lively but not overcrowded. And let’s not forget the gentle rain that added a touch of mystique to its cobblestone lanes and stone buildings.

Durbuy is also a haven for foodies. Whether you’re after a hearty hike or just there to soak in the beauty, you’ll find yourself spoiled for choice with cozy cafes and restaurants serving up some tasty local beer and handcrafted Belgian waffles. 

So, if you're ever looking for a fairy tale escape that's not too far from the Netherlands, Durbuy is definitely worth the trip.