Wallonia

Wallonia, the French-speaking southern region of Belgium, has made efforts to improve accessibility in recent years. While not as advanced as some European destinations, many cities and tourist sites have implemented accessibility measures. Visitors with disabilities may find varying levels of accessibility depending on the specific location and type of accommodation or attraction.

Belgium has national accessibility laws, but implementation can vary by region. In Wallonia, new public buildings must meet accessibility standards. The 'Access-i' certification system, specific to Wallonia, rates sites on their accessibility for various types of disabilities. As of 2023, over 600 tourist sites in Wallonia have been evaluated under this system.

The TEC bus network in Wallonia has been improving accessibility. As of 2022, approximately 40% of TEC buses are equipped with low floors and ramps. Major train stations in Walloon cities like Liège, Namur, and Charleroi have step-free access and assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility, which must be booked 24 hours in advance through the SNCB (Belgian Railways).

Many major attractions in Wallonia have made efforts to improve accessibility. The Pairi Daiza zoo offers wheelchair rental and accessible paths. The Caves of Han provide an adapted tour for visitors with reduced mobility. The Villers Abbey has implemented an 'Access-i' certified route. However, some historical sites and natural attractions may have limited accessibility due to their terrain or structure.

Wallonia offers a range of accessible accommodation options, though availability can be limited in smaller towns. The official Wallonia tourism website lists hotels and guesthouses with accessible rooms. As of 2023, there are over 100 accommodations in Wallonia that have been certified by Access-i for various levels of accessibility. It's advisable to contact accommodations directly to confirm specific accessibility features.

Plan ahead and check the Access-i website (access-i.be) for detailed accessibility information on tourist sites. Consider visiting larger cities like Liège or Namur, which generally have better accessibility infrastructure. When using public transportation, book assistance in advance. Be prepared for cobblestone streets in historical areas, which can be challenging for wheelchair users. English is less commonly spoken in Wallonia compared to Flanders, so learning basic French phrases can be helpful.