Ovifat
Accommodation in Ovifat
Ovifat combines an alpine ski area with three slopes for different ability levels and a toboggan run. The alpine ski area of Ovifat can be reached from the Verviers or Eupen railway stations by train and then by bus towards Elsenborn; the Sourbrodt stop is 500 m from the slopes.
Slopes and travel options
The three slopes in Ovifat’s alpine ski area are intended for different ability levels. This provides options for a range of abilities, without implying a more precise classification into beginner or advanced slopes. A toboggan run complements the winter activities and offers another option apart from skiing itself.
The connection described via Verviers or Eupen offers an alternative way to travel: the train journey is followed by a bus towards Elsenborn. The figure of 500 m refers to the Sourbrodt stop and the slopes, not to the distance from accommodation. If you are planning a trip with children and equipment, you should therefore assess the specific location of your accommodation in relation to the ski area separately.
Landscape, walks and village character
Ovifat lies on the southern slope of the Hautes Fagnes plateau and overlooks the Warche Valley. Château de Reinhardstein also overlooks the deeply cut valley; it is designated as a protected landscape, forms part of the Natura 2000 network and partly includes a state nature reserve. These protected-status designations describe the status of the landscape but say nothing about specific paths, opening hours or guaranteed accessibility.
For walks, the circular route “Sur les hauteurs d’Ovifat” is particularly clearly located: it starts at the church in Ovifat and follows the route of the Via Mansuerisca towards Rû du G’Hâster and the alpine ski slope. The “Vers Reinhardstein” walking route leads through the forest along roads and paths to Château Metternich, which stands on a rocky promontory above the Warche. In the vicinity of Ovifat, the Bayehon Valley also has numerous hiking and mountain-biking trails along its steep slopes. The village’s appearance is characterised by rubble-stone houses, often surrounded by tall beech hedges.
Culture and additional activities
In addition to winter sports, Ovifat offers several cultural attractions. In 1354, Wenceslaus of Luxembourg granted Renaud de Waimes permission to build Château de Reinhardstein at this location. Groups can visit the château throughout the year by reservation as part of guided tours. The visit is therefore subject to a specific format and a reservation.
The Chapelle du Cheneux lies between Ovifat and Château de Reinhardstein and is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. It is first mentioned in a document from 1602 recording a major pilgrimage by people from Malmedy. The village is also home to the Saint-Remacle Church, a Neo-Romanesque building made of arkose rubble stone with a three-sided nave. The Parcours Santé Ovifat begins at the end of Rue du G’Hâster.
Outside the winter season, the Ovifat ski area offers a leisure centre with numerous games and activities for groups and families.
To the main travel overview: Waimes.
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