Discover the charms of Ath, Hainaut, Hainaut

This circuit is only available in French and in Dutch. Please feel free to download the FR map card.

Ath, a city of history and traditions! Its ducasse, its monuments and its museums bear witness to the riches that the city has to offer.At night, blue diodes light the way to lead you along the ancient path of the Dender. They will take you along the light-guided route and introduce you to the town’s unmissable attractions. After your walk, you can stop off in the Grand-Place to try some giant’s beer, “La Gouyasse”, and venture into some of the nearby streets for a spot of shopping.

This circuit is only available in French and in Dutch. Please feel free to download the FR map card.

Between mountains and valleys, the White Mill of Ostiches emerges from several angles throughout the walk. But the landscape is not the only attraction of this hilly green region: it is also known for its good produce and its traditional rural heritage. Still in operation, its forge teaches you about iron work and bladesmithing. The mill, meanwhile, comes alive on Sundays in summer and transports you to another time. Also enjoy the charms of place d’Ostiches, its old brick and limestone farmhouses and its sun terraces.Hike nodes : START 91 - 92 - 1 END

The town of Mons has a number of valuable assets to draw you in. Its many museums – show everything from pride of place to current or latter-day artistic creation (Fine Arts Museum) to reverence for wartime history (Mons Memorial Museum). Its architectural heritage and old streets give it the charm of a historic town and can be seen wherever you look: The Belfry, listed by UNESCO, the ‘Sainte-Waudru’ Collegiate church, the ‘Grand Place’ (Town Square).. Tournai is one of the oldest towns in Belgium. It retains many traces of its millennial history. In terms of heritage, you can notably admire the oldest Belfry in Belgium as well as the Notre-Dame Cathedral, legacies from the medieval period and both on the UNESCO list. Don’t miss the ‘Halle aux Draps’ (former cloth trading building) known for its pretty Baroque and Renaissance facade and, more recently, the many Art Nouveau buildings that line the streets.

Climbing the Mount of San, among ancient trees, is the equivalent of going back into time. Mid-slope stands a calvary of the 18th century. The inhabitants of the village have dubbed it 'Moses', in reference to one of the stone characters. A legend tells that accomplishing the complete tour of the statues allows to benefit from abundant crops, to find a husband or to have children. Besides its undeniable heritage interest, this country walk combines tranquility and symbiosis with nature. Hike nodes : START 82-80-84-82 END

This circuit is only available in French and in Dutch. Please feel free to download the FR map card.

A ridge Road leads you to the philosopher’s cross. There, lying on the grass under the willow, you can enjoy relaxing tranquillity thinking about the "farmer Anrys”. For a few moments, you will think that time has stopped. Yet this tranquillity will be present during this walk along the fields and meadows of the region. Lahamaide will seduce lovers of nature and the Pays des Collines. Hike nodes : START 62-50-57-68-64-65-66-67-62 END

This rural walk is a nice getaway in the heart of the Pays des Collines, along encased dirt roads that connect Ostiches Lahamaide and Oeudeghien, three villages, each belonging to a different entity. The past, memory, folklore and nature encounter the walkers and lead them on a discovery of its present. The circuit allows you to guess the passage of the former vicinal steam tramway. At the end of the walk, stop at the tavern of the Ecomuseum to quench your thirst.Hike nodes : START 62-59-74-61-78-24-21-31-79-59-62 END

On display are the only Gallo-Roman boats that have so far been restored in Belgium and that were discovered at Pommeroeul (an archaeological site from the 2nd century located about twenty kilometres from Ath) in 1975. The museum boasts three Celtic barges including a dugout and an exceptional barge over 9 metres long listed as a “treasure” of the "Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles" of Belgium. These vessels are the centrepieces of this museum, which focuses on inland navigation.Accompanied by Rufus, boatman from ancient Pommeroeul, you will discover life in the Roman era thanks to scale models, frescoes, milestones and interactive games for children. Numerous activities, workshops, temporary exhibitions and demonstrations are organised for youngsters as well as for families.

Figures of giants were first used in Ath in the 15th century to celebrate the consecration of the church of Saint-Julien. At that time widespread in Europe, the giants performed in religious processions so as to give religious instruction to a largely illiterate population. Nowadays, the Ducasse parade in Ath is listed as UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage and is an exuberant combination of worldly and religious elements. In line with tradition, the Ath giants (Goliath, Samson, Ambiorix, the two-headed eagle…) are still carried on men’s backs rather than transported on mobile platforms, even though they each weigh over 100 kilograms!The Maison des Géants is the only museum specifically dedicated to giants in Belgium and France, and also serves as Ath’s tourist office and as a centre for study and research on popular traditions concerning large human and animal figures. The exhibition explains the history and techniques used to make and carry the giants. You will see the frame of a giant and even get the chance to try to carry it! In addition, you will discover the history and atmosphere of this beautifully renovated city (historic spots, shopping streets, mediaeval Burbant tower, Gallo-Roman Museum) following the Circuit des Lumières along the former course of the Dendre river.ACTIVITIES: La Ducasse d’Ath (4th weekend of August).

A local breakfast made with quality products is available to start the day. Upon reservation, a simple and friendly table d’hôtes can be served in the evening, perfect after a busy day.Housed in a mid-19th-century building with a classified façade, this property was a boys' school until the 1980s, giving it the name La Récré de Bauffe.Bicycles and motorcycles can be securely stored in a protected parking area, either under a carport or in the garage.Families are warmly welcomed. A travel cot for babies, a high chair, a changing mat, and a microwave for warming bottles or meals are provided. For young children, an adjustable bed is available, while a mezzanine with 2 sleeping spaces can accommodate teenagers.The large 70 m² terrace is perfect for enjoying sunny days. The shared lounge offers relaxation with board games, books, or planning the next day's activities. The region is brimming with attractions and activities to discover.The room, decorated with a school theme focusing on geography, features a private bathroom, a separate toilet, a television, and free Wi-Fi. Hot drinks (coffee, tea) and water are also available.This location provides peace and tranquility in the countryside, ideal for a rejuvenating stay.Special rates are available for companies working in the region for stays from Monday to Friday (minimum 2 nights).

  Burbant tower, built by count Hainaut Baudouin IV, known as the Builder, is a castle keep in the Anglo-Norman style of the second half of the 12th century. Built from local stone and faced in the 16th century in bluestone for the upper section, its defensive qualities were based on its sheer mass: sections of wall 14 metres long by 4 metres thick, elevation of at least 20 metres and few windows. The first level was only accessible by a removable platform and a ladder, also needed to reach the second level. The interior is subdivided into four levels. The blind base housed stores – later becoming a prison – beneath living quarters with fireplaces, a latrine and a chapel. A vault covers the building, which was a first for the period in Hainaut. The upper terrace was once surrounded by battlements. No trace survives of the great Renaissance pavilion in brick, the work of Jacques du Broeucq, which was on top of the keep from 1570. A raised courtyard surrounded the tower, followed in the 13th century by a lower courtyard, both with circular walls. Independent of this defensive system, the new town of Ath also had defensive walls in the 14th century, bearing at the time of its annexation by France in the second half of the 17th century, the mark of Vauban. During the Dutch period, the keep became an arsenal, then a warehouse before being restored at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries.  Listed: 16-10-1975 Exceptional heritage site of  Wallonia  

The boats and archaeological artefacts presented at the Espace Gallo-romain are the results of an exceptional discovery made in Pommeroeul in 1975. Join us on a journey through time to learn more about the Romans in Ath. visitwallonia.com/en-gb/content/espace-gallo-romain-ath-and-its-remarkably-preserved-vessels

On display are the only Gallo-Roman boats that have so far been restored in Belgium and that were discovered at Pommeroeul (an archaeological site from the 2nd century located about twenty kilometres from Ath) in 1975. The museum boasts three Celtic barges including a dugout and an exceptional barge over 9 metres long listed as a “treasure” of the "Fédération Wallonie-Bruxelles" of Belgium. These vessels are the centrepieces of this museum, which focuses on inland navigation.Accompanied by Rufus, boatman from ancient Pommeroeul, you will discover life in the Roman era thanks to scale models, frescoes, milestones and interactive games for children. Numerous activities, workshops, temporary exhibitions and demonstrations are organised for youngsters as well as for families.

From the Château d’Ath, in the historic centre of the city of giants, remains a fortified dungeon dating back to the 12th century. This 20-metre-high tower overlooks the City of Giants and offers a fascinating guided tour to visitors. visitwallonia.com/en-gb/content/tour-burbant-medieval-dungeon-ath

Who are these gigantic characters joining festivities in many European cities? Come and meet them at the Maison des Géants in Ath, nestled in a Louis XV mansion. visitwallonia.com/en-gb/content/la-maison-des-geants-dath-impressive-visit-wallonia

In this magical, timeless setting, discover a terrace and restaurant in a majestic architectural structure. www.notredamealarose.be/ latabledalix.be

Discover this old farmhouse with its bric-a-brac décor, just a stone's throw from the Aubechies Archéosite®, a visit the whole family will love. Step back in time as you enjoy a Roman meal on a leafy terrace. www.taverne-saint-gery.be/

Authentic and Accessible CuisineWith a menu highlighting fresh and seasonal ingredients, La Maison du Cocher offers a simple, healthy, and flavourful cuisine. Every dish is carefully crafted to enhance the quality of the ingredients and delight your taste buds.A Renowned Terrace and Spacious ParkingWhen the sun comes out, take advantage of the sunny terrace, known for its peaceful and welcoming ambiance. Plus, a large parking area ensures a hassle-free visit.Enjoy a gourmet getaway in a stunning setting and experience the warm welcome of La Maison du Cocher!

This stylish cocktail and wine bar offers a wide selection of creative drinks, sharing platters, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere – perfect for afterwork drinks, a night out with friends, or a romantic date.A Local Favourite in HainautWhether you're just passing through or live nearby, Be Well Bar is the perfect place to enjoy a quality cocktail, share delicious tapas, and spend a pleasant evening in great company. A trendy bar in Lens that blends hospitality, craftsmanship, and relaxation.

Southwest cuisine full of flavorsAt Le Funambule, each dish is a true culinary masterpiece, crafted with care and passion. Innovative and traditional, the chef’s cuisine takes you on a journey with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The dishes, as beautiful as they are delicious, will captivate you with their refined presentation, where aesthetics perfectly complement the taste.A warm and rustic atmosphereThe atmosphere at Le Funambule immerses you in a rustic, peaceful setting, perfect for a convivial culinary experience. The paintings and artworks adorning the restaurant’s walls add an extra dimension to your meal, creating a relaxed and welcoming environment.A culinary pleasure to shareFar from the hustle and bustle of the big cities, Le Funambule offers an authentic dining experience where every bite invites you to share memorable moments. The fair and accessible prices make this restaurant the perfect place to discover Southwest cuisine in a welcoming setting.An unforgettable experience to shareWhether you come with family, friends, or as a couple, every meal at Le Funambule becomes a unique moment. Let yourself be enchanted by generous, flavorful, and elegant Southwest cuisine, and leave with the desire to share your experience with others.

Visit an authentic Belgian brasserie in Blaton. All beers are brewed and bottled on the premises.