Discover Montigny-le-Tilleul, Hainaut, Hainaut: Activities and Attractions

During this escapade, you go up the River Sambre from Charleroi to Erquelinnes, the first Belgian town crossed by this Franco-Belgian river.

It is like a real impressionist painting along the beautiful, plunging Sambre valley, home to majestic swans, geese and ducks and featuring manual locks, typical taverns and the magnificent ruins of Aulne abbey. Along this node way, cross through Hourpes with its astonishing château and labourers’ homes from the 17th century metallurgical industry. Semi-rural landscapes in Anderlues, as well as Fontaine-l’Evêque, proudly show the traces of our prosperous mining past.  TO DO :Visit the ruins of the Cistercian Aulne Abbey; drink a beer from the abbey in a spot near Aulne Abbey; play a game of mini-golf on the terraces of Aulne Abbey; sail down the Sambre river at Cafe Leblon, near Aulne Abbey; taste organic produce from Maustitchi farm in Leernes. TO SEE :The Sambre valley and the manual locks found there; the hamlet of Hourpes, located in Thuin; the survey marker on the boundary of Lobbes and Anderlues; the headframe in Anderlues; Saint-Martin church in Leernes;the memorial monument for WWI fighters found on the plateau de l’Espinette.

This route, which departs from Aulne Abbey, starts quite drastically, with an ascent through woodlands. The descent to the centre of Leernes allows you to catch your breath and discover a pleasant hamlet. Its small square features a kiosk, which springs to life on the first Sunday of each July during the traditional ‘Chaudeau’ festivities. At this time, young people from the village go door to door, asking for the ingredients needed to make the ‘Tchaudia’: a soup made from milk, sugar, eggs and mastelles (small cinnamon buns). The route continues with a gentle ascent into the woods. You will stay in the woods until you return to the beginning of the route. The panorama from the ‘trou d’Aulne’ reveals the small hamlet of Hourpe and a magnificent view of the Valley of Peace, the name given to the Sambre valley by the Cistercian monks. 

The monks who founded the majestic Aulne abbey chose this site for its peace and quiet. Leaving from the abbey entrance, on your stroll you will appreciate the ‘Valley of Peace’ in all its diversity. You will walk along the ruins and go past the old main entrance. Just before entering the wood, you will see the pretty blue stone columns of the abbey farm. The path will also take you through the fields and lead you past the pools that were the source of all the abbey’s water through an underground hydraulic network. To finish your day’s relaxation, take advantage of the many open-air cafés, the crazy golf and the boat rides nearby. 

This walk, which starts from the centre of Jamioulx, begins by following the railway tracks towards the Hébert route, which is also known as ‘the Jamioulx wasteland’, to escape along small, wooded paths. Cross a small bridge that spans the Eau d’Heure, which flows further into the Sambre. After passing through the Bois de Marbaix forest, the route runs through orchards, fields and meadows with cattle and offers a beautiful panoramic view of the Eau d’Heure valley. The route also passes a site of biological interest known for its abundant flowers, insects, amphibians, birds and small mammals, such as rabbits and foxes.  

This mountain-biking route offers a pleasant athletic hike through our beautiful region of Thudinie that alternates between woods, countryside, farming landscapes, churches and tourist sites. There are very beautiful views over the Sambre. Walk near the Baudribu farm and fields, Biesme-sous-Thuin church, ‘Le Gibet’ hamlet, Notre-Dame des Carmes church, etc. Between the different tourists spots, the route runs through magnificent loamy landscapes and fields of crops. Walk by Aulne abbey and its majestic abbey church nestled in the Sambre Valley. Crossing through the paved streets of Thuin and climbing through Waibes Wood with its steep slopes promise to be challenging.  

From Charleroi, the industrial sites along the Sambre RAVeL network quickly give way to rural landscapes. Your journey takes in a series of picturesque locks, which are adjusted to the size of the old barges that were once built in various shipyards in the region. Discover the history of the ruins of Aulne abbey, with a stop on the terrace to enjoy a beer from the abbey. The omnipresence of the pleasure boats is proof that Thuin was, and still is, important to the inland waterways. Do not miss its hanging gardens and its UNESCO-listed belfry, which has an exceptional view of the valleys of the Sambre and the Biesmelle.  

"Hikers will love this demanding 22 km loop, an additional part of the GR 412 route called ‘Sentier des Terrils’ (slag heaps). (GR 412 Route: Borinage - Charleroi - Basse Sambre - Hesbaye - Bassin Liégeois). It carries on to Charleroi rail station, passing through interesting tourist spots such as ‘Marchienne’ and ‘Monceau’ castles, ‘Martinet Mining site’ and its slag heaps and the chain of slag heaps at ‘Dampremy’ and 'La Docherie’. The route includes the ascent of four slag heaps linked together by passages, paths and short crossings of secondary roads. Look out for the Boucle Noir (Black Loop logo). Its not a typical trail but its sporty, unusual and challenging. "

La Sambre d’Amis is a charming guesthouse nestled in Landelies, on the banks of the Sambre. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy the peaceful river and the charm of a typical little village. The rooms are comfortable, tastefully decorated, and designed to make you feel right at home. Every detail is carefully considered, from the cozy bedding to the private bathroom. In the morning, a delicious homemade breakfast is served, featuring fresh and local products. The house also offers a welcoming lounge, a flower-filled garden, and a terrace overlooking the water—perfect for reading, enjoying a drink, or simply listening to the gentle lapping of the Sambre. In the evening, upon reservation, a table d’hôtes is available: simple, generous, homemade cuisine prepared with fresh market ingredients, shared in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The welcome is warm and genuine, with attentive hosts who take the time to chat and offer recommendations, making every stay a peaceful and tasty escape. Access is easy: by car, by train (the Landelies station is just a stone’s throw away), by bike via the RAVeL, and even by pleasure boat thanks to the nearby dock. An ideal place to reconnect with nature, unwind, and enjoy the gentle rhythm of life by the riverside.

Housed in a former Carmelite convent, the largest photography museum in Europe covers the history of photography, from its invention to the most recent artistic movements. At the back of the museum, the 8500 m2-park is ideal for walks.

At the Café Lebon, in the stunning setting of Aulne Abbey, five of you at most will get onboard and relax as a family or among friends on a 5.6km return trip along the Sambre river between Aulne and Landelies. Once in the boat you are the helmsman. Don’t panic! Electric boats are easy to helm and don’t require a licence. Bar/café/restaurant with many special beers, soft drinks, ice creams, fresh local produce and fries, rental of electric bicycles and mountain bikes, etc. As well as a playground with slides, spring riders, zip-line, etc. It’s a children’s paradise!

Located in a magnificent historical setting, the Auberge de l'Abbaye hotel offers fully refurbished double rooms in the former Porte de l'Abbaye d'Aulne. The rooms have been furnished in accordance with the spirit of the building, which is rustic, modern and comfortable. Not to mention the stunning view of the ruins of Aulne Abbey. On the ground floor, the Auberge de l’Abbaye tavern serves local produce with exceptional presentation on the sun-drenched terrace. Enjoy the Aulne Abbey site and the tourist gems that are found there, including walking and cycling excursions along the Sambre River, with its manual locks, or even short cruises.  

When Aulne Abbey was offered by the prince-bishop of Liège in 1147 to Saint Bernard, abbot of Clairvaux and propagator of the Cistercian reform, it was already nearly five centuries old! Like its sister at Lobbes, it was founded by Saint Landelinus who, according to legend, was a brigand before becoming a man of the cloth. You will find out more about the history of the abbey and the life of the Cistercian monks from the information panels installed along the open-air route. Come and enjoy the landscaped garden and its walking area.

The location of a mining disaster, the site offers a tour involving three areas: Espace 8 août 1956, the Industry Museum and the Glass Museum. The Industry Museum recreates the time of the Industrial Revolution through the main fields of activities and highlights the plight of the working class. Included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, this architectural complex boasts two headframes and is surrounded by three converted slagheaps.

Located in the peaceful hamlet of Hourpes on the banks of the Sambre, this holiday home invites you to relax and recharge your batteries. The rooms are bright and feature a modern, minimalist décor. Outside, you can kick back on the spacious terrace and in the garden, which affords magnificent views of the surrounding countryside. There is a secure shelter for your bicycles and motorbikes. Close to the Gîte de Hourpes there are numerous walking and cycling trails along the RAVeL. Heritage enthusiasts will also enjoy the mediaeval town of Thuin, with its belfry and hanging gardens. Not to mention the Eau d’Heure lakes with their recreational, aquatic and sporting activities.   

Discover a unique outdoor experience at the Arboreo leisure park! Set in the heart of the forest near Charleroi, this park offers a wide range of adventure activities for all ages, including tree climbing, zip lines, a children's course, a skydive and an interactive treasure hunt, the Explor game...

Before its extensive renovation in 2015, the BPS22 was known as a space for contemporary creation, a pioneer of Charleroi's cultural development since the beginning of the century. Today, the BPS22 is a major art museum in the Belgian cultural landscape, setting itself apart with its specialised, at times radical, exhibitions, yet accessible to all thanks to innovative mediation activities. Anxious to contribute to the elaboration of critical thought, relations between art, power and society are the main focuses of the Museum's programming and acquisition policy. 

Located at number 76 opposite the Charleroi police station tower, this spacious, light-filled guest room is ideal for resting or working in the city centre. The adjoining small room ensures comfortable accommodation is available for up to three people. The two connecting rooms are wonderfully quiet thanks to the south facing garden. The Art Deco-style house is located close to transport services, hospitals, the courthouse, restaurants and Charleroi-Danses. Effortless parking .

With 80,000 photographs in its collection (800 of which are permanently on show), Charleroi's Museum of Photography is considered the most important of its kind in Europe. walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/content/museum-photography-charleroi

Housed in a former Carmelite convent, the largest photography museum in Europe covers the history of photography, from its invention to the most recent artistic movements. At the back of the museum, the 8500 m2-park is ideal for walks.

At the Café Lebon, in the stunning setting of Aulne Abbey, five of you at most will get onboard and relax as a family or among friends on a 5.6km return trip along the Sambre river between Aulne and Landelies. Once in the boat you are the helmsman. Don’t panic! Electric boats are easy to helm and don’t require a licence. Bar/café/restaurant with many special beers, soft drinks, ice creams, fresh local produce and fries, rental of electric bicycles and mountain bikes, etc. As well as a playground with slides, spring riders, zip-line, etc. It’s a children’s paradise!

When Aulne Abbey was offered by the prince-bishop of Liège in 1147 to Saint Bernard, abbot of Clairvaux and propagator of the Cistercian reform, it was already nearly five centuries old! Like its sister at Lobbes, it was founded by Saint Landelinus who, according to legend, was a brigand before becoming a man of the cloth. You will find out more about the history of the abbey and the life of the Cistercian monks from the information panels installed along the open-air route. Come and enjoy the landscaped garden and its walking area.

Dating from the late 19th century, the chapel is located in the place called “Les Trois Arbres” (the three trees). Napoleon watched his army marching towards Charleroi from this spot on the 15th of June 1815. Dedicated to Notre Dame de la Victoire, the chapel is the starting point for processions during the “Marches of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse” (Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity recognised by UNESCO). Hundreds of marchers escort the relics of local saints, dressed in uniforms resembling those worn by the soldiers of Napoleon’s Old Guard. Eglise Saint-André • Rue Willy Brogneaux • 6120 Jamioulx

The ruins of the Cistercian Aulne Abbey are nestled on the right bank of the Sambre, in a place beautifully called "Vallée de la Paix" or Valley of peace. The atmosphere is indeed very soothing and calls for a pleasant walk. walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/content/aulne-abbey

Founded in the 7th century on an estate planted with alder trees, Aulne abbey became a Cistercian monastery in 1147. In 1794, the buildings were burnt down. The main ruin is that of the Gothic church, built in the 12th and 15th centuries, and altered in the 16th century; the apsidal chapels and the porch are 18th-century additions. The monks built a number of industrial buildings on the banks of the Sambre, including a mill which still stands. To the south of the complex and 30 metres above it is a garden, the Jardin de la Montagne. The abbey complex is listed as part of Wallonia’s special heritage, and is becoming increasingly popular with visitors. Monument and site listed  (25-06-1980 and 24-04-1991) Listed as an exceptional heritage site of Wallonia

Do you want to enjoy a peaceful walk through a glorious setting? The Abbaye d’Aulne is the ideal location! Nestled in a quiet, leafy area bordered by the Sambre river, the abbey had many incarnations before housing a hospice in the main building once reserved for the abbot. The remains of this abbey that is listed as part of Wallonia’s exceptional heritage are an essential destination. To finish your day’s relaxation, take advantage of the many open-air cafés, the crazy golf and the boat rides nearby. Throughout the year, the abbey hosts colourful events such as the Juillet Musical D’Aulne and Scène sur Sambre music festivals

Listed by UNESCO as one of the major mining sites in Wallonia, the Bois du Cazier is a particularly touching memorial. Located South of Charleroi, this preserved industrial heritage site stretches along 26 hectares. A remarkable orientation trail has been designed to present its 3 heaps and architectural features.

The location of a mining disaster, the site offers a tour involving three areas: Espace 8 août 1956, the Industry Museum and the Glass Museum. The Industry Museum recreates the time of the Industrial Revolution through the main fields of activities and highlights the plight of the working class. Included on the UNESCO World Heritage List, this architectural complex boasts two headframes and is surrounded by three converted slagheaps.

Situated on the water's edge with a breathtaking view of Aulne Abbey (a must-see!), embrace a moment of sunshine and relaxation on the terrace. www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076065380883

Nestled in the heart of Aulne Abbey, "Bief du Moulin" is rooted in an ancient terroir that has been successful since 1966. Located in a dream-like setting at the edge of the water, this building looks like a holiday cottage and exudes authenticity and joie de vivre. The quality of the cuisine and the service has given it a reputation for gastronomy and hospitality with an increasingly extensive and loyal local population. To follow family recipes based on local produce to create wonderful flavour is the ultimate aim of the Bief du Moulin team. They offer a varied menu, reasonably-priced set menus and chef's specials changed on a seasonal basis, as well as a comprehensive wine list. A veranda on the banks of the Sambre or a dining room await you.

On the ground floor of the Auberge de l'Abbaye hotel, the tavern offers locally sourced, organic produce, such as charcuterie and cheese boards. You may dine and enjoy a drink on the terrace. The Aulne Abbey site will also delight hiking enthusiasts, cyclists or lovers of fine dining. You can stay in one of the six rooms, which offer contemporary comfort, a shower and toilet area, a wireless Internet connection and a breathtaking view of the ruins of Aulne Abbey.

In the abbey's medieval cellars, which can be visited, or on the terrace, come and enjoy a local beer and a hearty dish. Guaranteed to make your walk in the region even more enjoyable! www.facebook.com/people/les-caves-de-labbaye-daulne/100076061192271/

Located within the verdant and majestic Aulne Abbey, the Aulne Abbey brewery and tavern offers a bucolic and relaxing setting. It boasts a charming ambience, thanks to its pretty 18th-century façade, grey stone columns and brick vaults. Enjoy snacks made from local produce, and sample the essential sausages with beer and farmhouse cheese with delicious bread from the abbey. Don’t forget the famous abbey beers: 8º ADA Rouge, a tasty brown beer with hints of cherry, 7 Chéries, a white beer from Charleroi, Tropicale and more. You can eat and/or enjoy a drink in the garden, which boasts a stunning view over the abbey.

Looking for an unusual address in the heart of Charleroi? Go to the Carolo Cat.This cat bar offers a tasting area where you can find homemade pastries and lunches, all in the company of cute cats to adopt.A victim of its own success, this is an unusual address that you should try without delay.

In Lobbes, in the heart of the peaceful countryside, this restaurant offers French brasserie-style cuisine at an attractive price. The setting is modern with a nice view of the gardens and the pond and a superb 52-seat suspended terrace. They offer dishes of the day, various set menus, business lunches, seasonal menus, etc. This includes ultra-fresh ground beef tartare, grilled swordfish steak seasoned with herbal oil and foie gras. The menu is updated every season. There are set menus adapted to your needs: banquet, communion, marriage, birthday, etc.

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. 

La Sambre d’Amis is a charming guesthouse nestled in Landelies, on the banks of the Sambre. It’s the perfect place to relax, enjoy the peaceful river and the charm of a typical little village. The rooms are comfortable, tastefully decorated, and designed to make you feel right at home. Every detail is carefully considered, from the cozy bedding to the private bathroom. In the morning, a delicious homemade breakfast is served, featuring fresh and local products. The house also offers a welcoming lounge, a flower-filled garden, and a terrace overlooking the water—perfect for reading, enjoying a drink, or simply listening to the gentle lapping of the Sambre. In the evening, upon reservation, a table d’hôtes is available: simple, generous, homemade cuisine prepared with fresh market ingredients, shared in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The welcome is warm and genuine, with attentive hosts who take the time to chat and offer recommendations, making every stay a peaceful and tasty escape. Access is easy: by car, by train (the Landelies station is just a stone’s throw away), by bike via the RAVeL, and even by pleasure boat thanks to the nearby dock. An ideal place to reconnect with nature, unwind, and enjoy the gentle rhythm of life by the riverside.

Located in a magnificent historical setting, the Auberge de l'Abbaye hotel offers fully refurbished double rooms in the former Porte de l'Abbaye d'Aulne. The rooms have been furnished in accordance with the spirit of the building, which is rustic, modern and comfortable. Not to mention the stunning view of the ruins of Aulne Abbey. On the ground floor, the Auberge de l’Abbaye tavern serves local produce with exceptional presentation on the sun-drenched terrace. Enjoy the Aulne Abbey site and the tourist gems that are found there, including walking and cycling excursions along the Sambre River, with its manual locks, or even short cruises.  

The Auberge de l'Abbaye hotel features 6 beautifully renovated double rooms. Nestled within the former gate of the Aulne abbey, it offers quite a stunning setting. walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/content/auberge-de-labbaye-daulne-hotel-gozee

Thudi-Nids en bulle, an extra-ordinary camping site at the Aulne Abbey (near Thuin, Hainut), invites you to spend a romantic night in a transparent bubble (or sphair), set on a high-rise terrace. walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/content/thudi-nids-en-bulle-fun-glamping-site-near-aulne-abbey

Hotel located in front of the station in the lower city area. 100 m from the shopping centre and 10 mn from the airport. Parking open 24 h a day, 9 €. Restaurant open in the evening week days. walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/content/ibis-charleroi-centre-gare

Ideally located in the lower part of the town, Charleroi Youth Hostel offers a choice of 189 beds as well as comfortable, modern meeting rooms. walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/content/arthur-rimbaud-charlerois-youth-hostel

The youth hostel is located on the quays opposite Charleroi station. Only 10 km from Charleroi Airport (Brussels South Charleroi Airport, mainly served by Ryanair and AirBelgium) and only 1 hour from Brussels.The ideal place to stay to be within each reach of so many activities and sites: the GET UP Festival, Summer District, Quayside Flea Market, City Parade or, for the more athletic types, a walk along a long-distance hiking route to discover the slag heaps and so many other interesting places.Take the opportunity to discover this brand-new hostel and see how we have thought of everything to maximise your comfort and enjoyment!