Trip - In the footsteps of Napoleon

Having heard that Waterloo beer restored energy and valour in those who drank it, the Duke of Wellington allowed his men to drink it to boost their strength and courage on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo. With the English victory on 18 June 1815, the legend of Waterloo was born. Waterloo today is among John Martin’s prestigious Finest Beer Selection, along with the likes of Guinness, Gordon and Timmermans. A micro-brewery has been opened at Mont-Saint-Jean Farm, which was where the Duke of Wellington set up the English hospital during the battle in 1815.

A micro-distillery was set up quite recently at Mont-Saint-Jean farm. This place infused with history, character and authenticity is now rediscovering a tradition of yesteryear, by embarking on the distillation of high-quality gin and whisky. At the time, there was already a distillery on the site because it was an effective way of transforming out-of-date beer. Waterloo beer is the base component of both Waterloo gin and whisky. The only difference is that the whisky distillate is not altered in any way at all, while various spices and plants are added during the manufacturing process to enhance the flavour of the gin. The whisky won't be available till 2020.

Napoleon’s Last Headquarters is the only Napoleonic museum in Belgium. It was at this former farmhouse that Napoleon devised his strategy and drew up his battle plans.Located 4 km from the Mound of the Lion, the museum’s authentic period interior is home to a host of items of which the majority come from the French army, and they include the Emperor’s camp bed.In the layout of the Last Headquarters, visitors will be better able to soak up this historic location and gain a better understanding of history, while having fun. The focus is on the events of the night of 17 to 18 June and many stories from civil and military life. Audio guides tracing the course of the Battle will accompany you from room to room, following the fate of various protagonists.To guarantee access for all, the museum has developed different reading levels for adults and children. Particular attention is also paid to those with mobility problems, the partially sighted and the hard of hearing.

Allow yourself to be impressed by this hotel for a 4-star stay in the heart of a garden, a stone’s throw from Waterloo city centre.The hotel has 47 spacious, comfortable and well-lit rooms. A gym and private car park complete the offer.La Cuisine, a ‘bistronomic’ restaurant, offers dishes set by the seasons and a wine cellar that will delight both amateurs and connoisseurs. Three fully-equipped function rooms can host your meetings and seminars. 

The “Relais de l'Empereur” is located 30 km from Brussels and a stone's throw from the famous Lion’s Mound. Located in the heart of the “Golf de l'Empereur” in a true natural oasis, this elegant and comfortable hotel offers rooms, suites and loft apartments with a contemporary design.

A charming and tastefully designed B&B with a split-level room, looking out over the inner courtyard of a Brabant farm dating back to 1721.

This freshly renovated bed and breakfast for 4 people boasts 3 well-appointed rooms in a quiet setting within easy reach of a number of golf courses.

Surprises abound in the ancient headquarters of the Duke of Wellington, the future Prince of Waterloo. This is where he slept on the nights of 17 and 18 June 1815, and where he drafted his victory announcement.By means of authentic souvenirs, weapons, etchings, the 14 museum rooms trace the events of the times and perpetuate the memory of the nations and troops that took part in the fray.The museum also offers several guided tours:●       Classic: 1 or 2 hours with a professional tour guide, adapted to all ages and audiences.●       Family: with a guide dressed as an English soldier.●       corporate: adapted for teambuilding and complimentary drink●       School groups (nursery, primary and secondary): adapted guided tour covering the period from the French Revolution to the end of the Napoleonic Empire, as well as the history of the Battle of Waterloo.

On June 15th 1815, the Duke of Wellington decided to establish his field hospital at the farm of Mont-Saint-Jean. During and after the battle of Waterloo, near 6000 soldiers were treated there.This former, hardly ever sanitized hospital is now a museum. Discover the work of surgeons in times of war, the surgical instruments used, the weapons, uniforms, ammunition ... with an impressive recontextualisation of the facts.Stories and illustrations of the work of the Scottish surgeon Charles Bell, present at the site in June 1815, are also on show.The broader history of the farm is also presented. More than eight centuries old, it was occupied by the Order of Malta, turned into a farm and housed a brewery. Take the opportunity to enjoy the Waterloo beer, brewed on site.

Discover the site of the battle of 18th June 1815 where 300 000 men from 7 nations clashed. The Memorial 1815 pass combines various attractions linked to the Waterloo Battlefield:- After a memorable climb of 226 steps, the Lion's Mound gives you a unique view of the battlefield.- Buried at the foot of the Lion's Mound, the Memorial allows you to experience one of the most turbulent times in our History as if you were there.- An immense panoramic frieze (circumference 110m, height 12m) made in 1912 takes you to the heart of the battle with an impressive soundtrack.- Last authentic witness of the battle, the Hougoumont Farm provides a unique setting: 4 exhibition rooms coupled with a multimedia show.

Discover this immense panoramic frieze (circumference 110m, height 12m) made in 1912 by Louis Dumoulin. The Panorama illustrates a key point in the battle, when it was at its height. Plunge into the heart of the Battle thanks to an impressive soundscape.

The Lion's Mound gives a unique view of the battlefield after a memorable climb of 226 steps. This 40m tumulus was erected on the spot where it is thought that the Prince of Orange was wounded before he became the King of the Netherlands. The Mound symbolizes the victory of the allied monarchies.

At the foot of the Lion’s Mound, Le Wellington Brasserie offers mainly Belgian cuisine served all day long. Come in for a slice of cake, an ice cream, a glass of wine or to enjoy the tea menu.

At the foot of the famous Lion’s Mound try the delicious and sophisticated cuisine in the ‘day before the battle’ ambiance at the Bivouac de l'Empereur.This fully renovated restaurant serves authentic cuisine.Also enjoy the lovely terrace with a wonderful view over the Mound.