Perched on the Croix-Scaille plateau, on the French-Belgian border, the Millennium Tower stands out as one of the country’s most spectacular viewpoints. Rising to a height of 60 meters, this giant marks the highest point in the province of Namur. The immersive experience begins with the site’s incredible historical and architectural legacy, whose boldhourglass-shaped structure has just undergone a complete renovation. Next comes a full-scale adventure: afterthe dizzying climb, the grounds invite you to explore. With playgrounds, forgotten legends, and nature walks in the heart of a unique nature reserve, you’ll feel completely transported.
A steel hourglass at the nation’s highest point: the secrets behind an architectural challenge
Long before welcoming visitors, the Croix-Scaille plateau— Belgium’s fourth-highest peak—served a strategic purpose. Between 1914 and 1944, four military observation towers stood there in succession. The site’s modern history began in 2001 with the inauguration of the Millennium Tower, designed by architect Daniel Dethier to boost local tourism. Standing 60 meters tall, its unique structure—shaped like two giant inverted tripods —required an extraordinary construction project.
Faced with the impossibility of transporting heavy-duty cranes deep into the forest, the tower was fully assembled horizontally, but a spectacular pivoting lift allowed it to be raised upright. Due to premature wear and tear on the wood, the structure underwent several structural transformations, notably in 2012 and again during a major renovation between 2025 and 2026. Now rebuilt using galvanized steel and tropical wood, it reopened its doors in May to celebrate its 25th anniversary.
The Millennium Tower: from 360° panoramic views to wild moors
Today, this completely free and accessible site has become a paradise for families and hikers. Climbing the 234 steps feels like a vertical journey up to the tree canopy. At the summit, the orientation table helps you make sense of a fabulous panorama stretching over 30 kilometers in every direction, revealing the full depth of the Belgian and French Ardennes forests. At the base of the lookout tower, you’ll find picnic tables, a playground, and a tourist information chalet that offers maps, ice cream, and refreshments during the season.
The wooded estate is also the ideal starting point for exploring the mysteries of La Croix-Scaille, whose name is said to derive from a slate cross erected in 1592. The must-see trail leads to the Fange de l’Abîme nature reserve. A boardwalk there winds through peat bogs witha wild atmosphere, where unique flora thrives and where the lucky few may come across the tracks of a wolf or a beaver. Finally, children will love Elfe, a playful network of discoveries that adds a touch of magic to the walk.
📍Rue de la Scierie, 5575 Gedinne
