The Walloon tourism observatory estimates the number of bed nights in various types of tourism accommodation in 2016 to stand at 7.5 million, namely a 3% increase. A particularly satisfying increase in view of the attacks last March and the bad weather in the spring.
Therefore, 2016 was a good year for tourist accommodation in Wallonia, while the number of visitors to attractions experienced a slight decline (-1%). Major tourist attractions, such as Pairi Daiza or the Eurospace Center are still as busy as ever, but museums were slightly neglected.
So-called local accommodation, such as gites and bed & breakfasts, benefited from great increases in their numbers (+10.2%), as well as holiday villages and youth hostels (+7%). However, there was a slight decrease in the number of hotel nights (-2%), as well as the numbers for campsites (-3.3%).
The rain in the spring was even a blessing for some, especially in the province of Luxembourg, because the water level in Walloon rivers allowed the kayak sector and other water sport activities to attract a large number of tourists (+9.1% in visitors).
There are only very partial figures for the 2016 winter holidays. But 73% of professionals already declare themselves to be satisfied, even very satisfied: +1.5% bed nights compared to the same period in 2015, despite the lack of snow.
Finally, in 2016, Wallonia boosted its investments and facilities for bicycles. "Bicycle tourism" has delighted holiday makers as well as professionals from the sector who have set up thematic itineraries and even the now famous gourmet excursions.
Source: Belga and RTBF
