lesse

Lesse is a river in Belgium, located in the Walloon Region. It is a right-bank tributary of the Meuse and flows through the Ardennes in the southeastern part of the country. The river’s course runs roughly northward, passing through Rochefort and Han-sur-Lesse before entering the Dinant area, where it joins the Meuse at Anseremme, just downstream from the town of Dinant. The Lesse is approximately 90 to 95 kilometers long.

The valley of the Lesse, known as the Vallée de la Lesse, is distinguished by limestone cliffs and karst features. The river is notable for the Lesse Gorge and the caves at Han-sur-Lesse, a major tourist attraction that lies close to the river. The gorge and caves are part of a broader protected area that preserves several habitats and geologic features.

Ecologically, the Lesse supports typical Ardennes freshwater communities and is used for outdoor recreation. The river valley hosts trails, scenic overlooks, and opportunities for boating and caving, drawing visitors for nature and geotourism. The Lesse is part of the Meuse basin, contributing to the regional landscape and tourism economy. The valley has a long history of human settlement and activity, including historical mills along the river, with modern use centered on conservation and tourism.