Geotrail of Hotton

Distance/Time : 8.5km - 2h30

Elevation change : 250m

Level : Intermediate

Geosites : Caves of Hotton, Isbelle Resurgence, The Renissart Rocks (and Trou Fré Djamé), "Faber" water mill and Riveo

Geology : givetian limestones (Calestienne)

Hotton lies within the Famenne in the Ourthe valley, just downstream of where the river runs through the limestone layers of the Calestienne. This trail will take you from one side of the Calestienne to the other, on both sides of the Ourthe valley. In the river valleys (Ourthe and Agauche), erosion has revealed the limestone rock in spectacular fashion, perfectly illustrating the almost vertical inclination of the strata. Elsewhere, it is mainly disused quarries that provide a better understanding of the region's geology and the role it has played in shaping the landscapes and the development of local socio-economic activity: ancient buildings, mineral resources, agricultural methods. Capping it all, the Caves of Hotton offer visitors a chance to see for themselves what lies underground. The shorter option for this trail covers 7.3km, increasing to 8.9km if you take the routes via the Agauche stream, the Calestienne Garden and the Isbelle resurgence.