Hestrud, Nord, Nord-Pas-de-Calais

Follow in the footsteps of the Emperor Napoleon’s route taken with his troops during the last days before the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. The Route in Wallonia is 56 miles long, with its history, museums, heritage, folklore, UNESCO World Heritage sites, scenery, regional gastronomy and more. Specific signposts will guide you along this historic route. Visit this route at walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/waterloo1815

The second starting point for the great crossing, Sivry is an ideal place for nature tourism, thanks to its wooded landscapes. The itinerary for the great crossing assumes a rustic element with its scrub-like hedges. You will follow a short stretch of the Véloroute des lacs, a bike path that runs between the Eau d'Heure lakes and the lakes in Val Joly in France to reach Bois de Bruyère. You will eventually pass through the villages of Sautin and Rance, before reaching the former train station in Froidchapelle. This relaxed route soon bypasses the Eau d’Eppe and begins to pass through Bois Robert. The great crossing runs across the Fagne de Chimay, a vast schist depression with poor-quality soil, for a few kilometres. Upon reaching the village centre in Virelles, you will join the Virelles-Nismes section of the great crossing. Two camp sites are located in this section: the Château Doyen camp site and the Bois de Hernoy camp site.

Located in Leugnies, a border village in the La Botte du Hainaut region in Beaumont, between the cities of Chimay and Thuin, the Gîte de Bonne Espérance is a charming holiday rental made from local stone. It has been converted from a former farmhouse building from the Abbey of Bonne-Espérance with environmentally friendly materials. As part of their environmentally friendly approach, the owners have opted for natural materials: slate, blue stone from Hainaut, clay walls, locally sourced oak, cork and thermofloc insulation, etc. The Gîte de Bonne Espérance boasts a wood and stone terrace, a wood-burning stove and a pretty private garden with flowers. Access to the vegetable and aromatic plant garden is available.

Located in the Main Square in Sivry, with lush greenery opposite, this family accommodation is ideal for hikers with the RAVeL network nearby. Le Marronnier's interior comprises refined furnishings and décor, adding a feeling of peace and serenity to your stay. If it takes your fancy, you can explore tourist attractions a few kilometres from this accommodation: the marble museum, the Natural Space in the Botte du Hainaut region, the Bressant chocolate factory, the Salamandre guided tour, the Aquascope and the impressive flora and fauna found there, and much more. Don’t forget the magnificent Eau d’Heure Lakes and Val Joly, as well as all of the water sports, outdoor and recreational activities on offer there.   

Located in the charming little village of Sivry, close to Virelles lake and the Eau d’Heure lakes, this functional lodge is the ideal place to unwind with family and/or friends. The owners of the L’orée des Près lodge offer a warm welcome in their cosy and comfortable establishment. Outside, on the terrace, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the meadows and forests that decorate this breathtaking setting. Perfect for a relaxing stay in the heart of nature. The location is ideal for hiking and cycling. The owners will be happy to provide you with the best information on the region’s many tourist attractions.

Housed in a former 18th-century farmhouse that has been completely restored, Le Temps d’un Souffle holiday rental promises a relaxing stay in a calm, verdant setting. The owners of this charming building, which is made from local stone, will extend a warm welcome, and offer advice about tourist attractions in the region. The rooms are bright and spacious, with décor that blends wood and contemporary furnishings. There is a games area with table tennis and darts. The garden has beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and an area for barbecuing. Ideal for a family getaway and/or a trip with friends. It is located close to the Eau d’Heure Lakes site and beautiful sign-posted walks.  

Located at the entrance to the village of Sautin, a stone’s throw from the RAVeL network and surrounded by the national forest, these unique rooms allow you to escape to the heart of nature, with a swimming pool, Jacuzzi and sauna. À la carte treatments, a private spa and treatment packages complement this original and reinvigorating offering. The owners of Terre Insolite offer guest rooms with unique décor and unusual accommodation where you can come to recharge your batteries, reconnect with nature, have time to yourself, or enjoy relaxing time together. Enjoy a nice breakfast and/or a hearty meal in your own room or outside, surrounded by nature.

The Emperor entered the existing Walloon territory through this little village. It was here where he made a legendary encounter with an audacious young villager who tried to convince him not to continue on his way. A little stele near the Pont de la Tannerie bridge, is a reminder of this “conversation”. Stele - Rue de la Tannerie • 59740 Hestrud, France

The Emperor entered the existing Walloon territory through this little village. It was here that he made a legendary encounter with an audacious young villager who tried to convince him not to continue on his way. The little standing stone , near the Pont de la Tannerie (bridge), is a reminder of this premonitory conversation. Standing stone - Rue de la Tannerie • 59740 Hestrud, France

Located in Leugnies, within Beaumont, the owner of ÂnimanimÔ promises you a wonderful experience with her donkeys. On the guided walks, you will meet Le Trio d’Enfer (The Infernal Trio): Ernest, Pompom and Cadichon. Whether it’s for a simple family outing or a birthday celebration, you’ll enjoy moving slowly and responsibly while taking in landscapes that are often inaccessible to motorised vehicles. What’s more, the walk fosters respect for local flora and fauna and promotes environmental and community values. And above all, it’s about discovering this loyal and endearing animal! And at the same time, restoring the donkey to its rightful place. Activities available on request: children’s days such as birthdays, themed days, corporate events, etc.

Set off with Maya to discover the flora of the beautiful Beaumont countryside! On this walk, you’ll harvest the best wild plants and flowers to make your own massage oil and skin balm. At the beginning of the workshop, our enthusiastic artisan will explain how to pick plants ethically and safely. You’ll also learn about the unique properties of the plants you’ve chosen and their many benefits. After picking the plants, you’ll head to the cosmetics workshop to make your own products using natural, skin-friendly ingredients. At the end of the activity, you’ll leave with your creations, plant identification cards and a detailed recipe sheet so you can continue the experience at home.   

Espace Nature houses a remarkable collection of naturalised animals from Belgium and around the world, with a special focus on Natura 2000 species and symbolic Walloon species, in a fully -renovated setting. Permanent themed exhibitions. Guided tours on request. Eco-educational walks in hedgerow, forest, grassland or aquatic environments. School activities based on the programmes. Special activities (night-time and early morning walks, etc).

In Anne’s writing workshops, you take pleasure in writing and putting your thoughts on paper, in a space that is conducive to creation, with a great group dynamic. This activity can be organised in many locations and, in partnership with many sporting activities (yoga, sophrology, etc.) or cultural activities but also on a walk for a trip to discover tourist or city sights. Inspiring places: castles, boats, water’s edge, forest lodges, treetops, museums, etc. are obviously of great interest but the workshop is also possible at Anne’s home, in a simple living room or a beautiful garden.

Napoleon and his troops spent the night of the 14th to the 15th of June 1815 in Beaumont. The soldiers set up their camp at the foot of the Salamander Tower, which was built in the 11th century. It now houses a small local history museum including a room dedicated to Napoleon’s passage. The Emperor stayed nearby in the mansion of Maurice Gabriel Joseph Riquet de Caraman, the Prince of Chimay. A plaque on the façade of the building reminds us of this event (Grand Place 12). Tour Salamandre • Rue de la Poterne • 6500 Beaumont visitwallonia.com/en-gb/content/tour-salamandre?cookie_lang=en-gb

At Beaumont, a Mediaeval town, Salamandre Tower, rising proudly above the small village bears witness to its rich past. Walk through the paved alleyways and climb the many steps to reach the top of the tower and discover the fantastic views over the valley of Hantes, the ramparts and listed buildings. The audioguided tour will recount testimonies of this local heritage with evidence that can still be seen today. The tour is in four languages (FR, NL, EN and DE), with an adult version and another guide that is more appealing to children. There are two options possible: an urban circuit of around 1.6km which takes 1 hour 30 mins, with an additional loop of 1 km along our ramparts. You can get the audioguides from the Beaumont Tourist Office.

Visit Salamandre Tower, the dungeon of the old fort, as a family or among friends. Come and discover the city’s past with its history and regional craft museum. You will great Charles V and the three Auvergnats. You will meet Charles de Croÿ and his famous miniatures. You will relive Napoleon’s visit to this city and the life of the “Caraman-Chimays”. Not to mention the stunning view you will have from the top of the walls across the Beaumontois countryside.

The old cradle of the glass-making and marble trades in the region — Barbençon will not leave you indifferent! The charming houses are a remarkable part of the heritage. Finish your visit with a moment’s relaxation around Barbençon Lake, a real haven of peace with a view over the castle that rises proudly above the old ramparts.

The Le Court Tournant friterie offers delicious “home-made” dishes for all ages, with a wide range of à la carte dishes, dishes of the day, drinks and desserts. Everything is prepared on the same day with high-quality ingredients. This family establishment boasts beautiful facilities in a refined cottage setting. When the weather is good, they open their wooden terrace and children can play in their playground.

The name Le Cœur literally means what this restaurant represents: the beating heart of Landal Village L’Eau d'Heure. Located on the holiday village square, the friendly managers welcome you in a modern and refined setting. Treat yourself to a coffee, a pastry, a good beer or a delicious meal before or after your walk in the magnificent Eau d’Heure lakes. When the weather is fine, you can eat on the terrace with a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside. Close to beautiful signposted walks and the authorised and supervised swimming area of the Espace Fun. Not to mention the many fun and sporting activities available on site.    

Housed in the former barn of a farm, Grange de la Courte is a restaurant focusing on local cuisine. It offers quality produce from the farm or neighbouring holdings. Each table resembles a traditional farm table, overflowing with tasty dishes and intended to facilitate moments of joy. Grills, ratas, casseroles, fish, gourmet desserts, etc. A south-facing terrace, children's playground and proximity to farm animals.

In the heart of the Eau d’Heure lakes site, Iwago 66 offers various snacks and nibbles to take away or eat on site. There is something for everyone: pure grilled beef burgers, cheeseburgers, chips, a wide range of sauces, sandwiches, desserts, drinks, and more. A snack bar with vintage American decoration, with booths, a jukebox and photos of Elvis Presley. Not far from the snack bar, there are sports, aquatic activities and relaxation activities to delight young and old alike.

With exotic origins, Vincent and Ling prepare refined, high-quality cuisine. A place of well-being with a friendly family atmosphere, "Le Pré en Bulles" offers innovative cuisine mixing Chinese culture and local produce, mainly from their farm. In good weather, the setting is very pleasant and quiet with the large sun terrace, the view of the lush nature and the playground for children. Ideal for complete relaxation in the countryside.

During your stay in, or visit to, the Eau d’Heure lakes, why not enjoy a culinary break at "La Brasserie des Lacs"? Located in the Golden Lakes Hotel, a cosy setting, refined decor, with a bay window offering a breathtaking view of the lake and refined no-frills cuisine. Whether on the terrace or inside, you can unwind by enjoying a drink or stay longer and savour an excellent selection of dishes, which are carefully prepared by the chef using local produce (vegetarian options also available). This culinary break will be enriched by the 180° view of the peaceful lake setting and its verdant environment.

Restaurant, café and terrace in the heart of Ferme de la Cour, which adjoins the Biercée Distillery. Ideal for a gourmet break and spirit tasting in a remarkable site along the Route Napoléon. www.lagrangedeslegendes.be/

This brasserie-restaurant, which is located adjacent to Distillerie de Biercée and in the magnificent Ferme de la Cour, serves typical Belgian cuisine. Don't forget its artisanal alcohols and beers, which are made from fresh fruit. This incredible vaulted setting houses an exceptional collection of old enamelled drinking plaques. The history of Belgian advertising in the last century is illustrated here, adding a charming vintage touch that enthusiasts will enjoy. A very pretty outdoor terrace has games for kids. 

Located in Leugnies, a border village in the La Botte du Hainaut region in Beaumont, between the cities of Chimay and Thuin, the Gîte de Bonne Espérance is a charming holiday rental made from local stone. It has been converted from a former farmhouse building from the Abbey of Bonne-Espérance with environmentally friendly materials. As part of their environmentally friendly approach, the owners have opted for natural materials: slate, blue stone from Hainaut, clay walls, locally sourced oak, cork and thermofloc insulation, etc. The Gîte de Bonne Espérance boasts a wood and stone terrace, a wood-burning stove and a pretty private garden with flowers. Access to the vegetable and aromatic plant garden is available.

Located in the Main Square in Sivry, with lush greenery opposite, this family accommodation is ideal for hikers with the RAVeL network nearby. Le Marronnier's interior comprises refined furnishings and décor, adding a feeling of peace and serenity to your stay. If it takes your fancy, you can explore tourist attractions a few kilometres from this accommodation: the marble museum, the Natural Space in the Botte du Hainaut region, the Bressant chocolate factory, the Salamandre guided tour, the Aquascope and the impressive flora and fauna found there, and much more. Don’t forget the magnificent Eau d’Heure Lakes and Val Joly, as well as all of the water sports, outdoor and recreational activities on offer there.   

Located in the charming little village of Sivry, close to Virelles lake and the Eau d’Heure lakes, this functional lodge is the ideal place to unwind with family and/or friends. The owners of the L’orée des Près lodge offer a warm welcome in their cosy and comfortable establishment. Outside, on the terrace, you can enjoy a fantastic view of the meadows and forests that decorate this breathtaking setting. Perfect for a relaxing stay in the heart of nature. The location is ideal for hiking and cycling. The owners will be happy to provide you with the best information on the region’s many tourist attractions.

Located at the heart of the charming village of Sivry, just next to the French border, the Chez Bertine holiday rental offers a getaway that combines nature, relaxation and serenity. The owners warmly welcome you to their beautifully furnished, stylishly decorated and well-equipped accommodation. The rooms are bright and thoughtfully arranged. Outside, there’s a terrace with furniture and a barbecue, as well as a charming garden with a stunning view over the river Thure and the surrounding countryside. It’s ideal for a getaway with friends and/or family. Nearby, there are beautiful sign-posted walks, the attractive town of Chimay and the Eau d’Heure lakes for a change of scenery.  

Located in the heart of the Belgian portion of the Thiérache region, at the entrance to the village with its lively social calendar, the rustic Marie-Groëtte holiday rental promises a relaxing getaway in a natural, locale with rich heritage. A south-facing terrace and garden offer peace and quiet, as well as a breathtaking view over the fields and the sound of birdsong. This getaway is all about getting back to basics, nature preservation, ecology, waste sorting and composting, wood and pellet-based fires for heat, etc. It's an ideal starting point from which to explore nature and the forest and lakes with sign-posted trails, the RAVeL network and other activities.

Housed in a former 18th-century farmhouse that has been completely restored, Le Temps d’un Souffle holiday rental promises a relaxing stay in a calm, verdant setting. The owners of this charming building, which is made from local stone, will extend a warm welcome, and offer advice about tourist attractions in the region. The rooms are bright and spacious, with décor that blends wood and contemporary furnishings. There is a games area with table tennis and darts. The garden has beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and an area for barbecuing. Ideal for a family getaway and/or a trip with friends. It is located close to the Eau d’Heure Lakes site and beautiful sign-posted walks.  

Located at the entrance to the village of Sautin, a stone’s throw from the RAVeL network and surrounded by the national forest, these unique rooms allow you to escape to the heart of nature, with a swimming pool, Jacuzzi and sauna. À la carte treatments, a private spa and treatment packages complement this original and reinvigorating offering. The owners of Terre Insolite offer guest rooms with unique décor and unusual accommodation where you can come to recharge your batteries, reconnect with nature, have time to yourself, or enjoy relaxing time together. Enjoy a nice breakfast and/or a hearty meal in your own room or outside, surrounded by nature.