Escap'Anes Famenne-Ardenne Donkey Trekking
What is it you do?
"We organise hiking trips to explore the Calestienne with a donkey for companion. We also organise treks, including overnight stays, through Famenne, during which we introduce our trekkers to local produce, to the local wildlife and plants, and to the geology of the Calestienne. We already work with a number of school nature camps. We run workshops and classes in map-reading, building a bivouac, awareness of the walker's impact on the surrounding biodiversity, and so on. We work hand in hand with the Fond des Vaulx association on guided tours of the town or of the Fond des Vaulx valley, with or without donkeys. And we also put together individual solutions, as requested, for families keen to combine walking, interacting with an animal and learning about the biodiversity of the places they pass through."
What prompted you to seek "Famenne-Ardenne UNESCO Global Geopark Partner" status?
"I am a qualified mountain guide, and I often organise "learning walks" in the Fond des Vaulx valley. I am also a member of the Wallonia Belgium Tourism technical experts group for tourist guides. I really enjoy sharing my love of nature, hiking and local produce. For me, the Geopark project is a fantastic opportunity for promoting, developing and protecting the natural assets this region has been blessed with. My training has made me familiar with the plants and wildlife of the Calestienne, and I can't wait to brush up on my knowledge of geology."
What is your approach to sustainable development and environment friendly practices?
"The association takes part in "clean up our commune" days focusing on the Fond des Vaulx valley. And we work exclusively with local producers for the preparation of our meals or packed lunches."
Alain Dantinne, trustee
Contact details:
Route du waillet, 14
6900 Marche-en-Famenne
084 31 66 11
familledantinne@gmail.com
