Explore the charms of Fontaine-l'Evêque, Hainaut, Hainaut

This route begins in the city centre of Fontaine-l’Evêque, along a main road. The Pétria mound, which is classified as a Natura 2000 zone, spans several hectares. You’ll discover exceptional biodiversity there. This is a real green expanse, with various ecological nooks, such as pools, ponds, dry meadows and more. The food chain is complete, from microscopic creatures in dry or wet environments, such as dragonflies and frogs, to diurnal and nocturnal raptor super-predators, such as buzzards, common kestrels, Eurasian hobbies and owls, among others. From the peak, enjoy a stunning vista over the chain of mounds.  

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

Starting from Bourlette Tower, the last 12th century remains of Saint-Médard church which used to be a bell tower, belfry and fortified tower, the route twists through a semi-urban setting. The most rural and woody part will be a surprise to many. It seems incredible to have preserved these locations a few hundred metres from a main street. The mining past is also present with the headframe, a typical emblem of coal society whose slap heaps beside the site are now covered with flourishing vegetation. Take the time to gather your thoughts as you stroll through Collarmont cemetery. At the end of the walk, you will go near the source of the Haine, which gave its name to Hainaut province.

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. 

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.

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 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.  

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.

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.

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.  

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.   

Located less than 30 minutes from Charleroi airport, Relais De La Haute Sambre is a large, verdant estate with a pond. The rooms are spacious and have everything you need to get comfortable. The restaurant is 20 metres from the establishment and serves traditional French cuisine. Two kilometres away, the RAVeL network along the Sambre River is a very calm, peaceful spot, perfect for walking, relaxing or enjoying sports. The woods in Lobbes and Thuin, which are five minutes away on foot, are a serene setting for a hike.

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.

Escale de Flore is a charming, fully refurbished home from the early 20th century. This urban holiday rental is located in the Medieval city of Thuin. Located along the bucolic towpath, it offers a spectacular view of the Sambre valley, the historic shore district and the UNESCO-listed belfry. You can relax in the enclosed garden if you wish. A games room is available for children. It is an ideal starting point for various walking and cycling excursions to Aulne Abbey, Chimay, Lobbes, etc. It is also close to the train station, shops and various tourist activities, such as Aulne Abbey, the golf course in Ragnies, etc. 

The Martinet site is a former colliery site whose shafts were kept in working order until 1979.Recently, this site has been given a new lease of life. The hanging room of this former Charleroi colliery has been renovated and the site should continue to expand to become an important tourist attraction. Many walks are possible and you can discover the typical biodiversity of these environments.A site between biodiversity, history and reconversion...The map of the Martinet is available free of charge at the Maison du Tourisme du Pays de Charleroi, Place Charles II, 20.It can also be downloaded from www.charleroi.be/découvrir

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.

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

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!

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

In Collarmont cemetery lie the valiant french soldiers who heroically fought the germans during the invasion of 22nd august 1914. Collarmont is situated on a promontory that separates the Haie valley from the Haine valley. The tombs are set out in rows, with red roses adding the only touches of bright colour. Four types of emblem mark the graves: a Latin cross, a Muslim tombstone, a Jewish tombstone, and a tombstone for other faiths and free-thinkers.

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.

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/

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Described as a "Maison Gourmande" by its owner Arnaud Hamoline, this gourmet restaurant has been in existence since 2002. At the end of 2015, Arnaud took over from his father Alain at the helm of this quality restaurant. The kitchen is run by a talented young chef, Nicolas Tournay, who trained in Michelin-starred establishments.

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.

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

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

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.  

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.   

Located less than 30 minutes from Charleroi airport, Relais De La Haute Sambre is a large, verdant estate with a pond. The rooms are spacious and have everything you need to get comfortable. The restaurant is 20 metres from the establishment and serves traditional French cuisine. Two kilometres away, the RAVeL network along the Sambre River is a very calm, peaceful spot, perfect for walking, relaxing or enjoying sports. The woods in Lobbes and Thuin, which are five minutes away on foot, are a serene setting for a hike.