Explore Froidchapelle, Hainaut, Hainaut: Local Wonders Await

Depart from the former train station on the outskirts of Sivry-Rance and discover part of the history of Froidchapelle and the hidden corners of Bois d’Hernoy forest, an ideal location for peace and tranquillity. The route is punctuated with remarkable trees and ponds, including the Notre-Dame de Lumière oak tree, which is known for its hanging virgin and beneficial properties for visual impairments. You follow the RAVeL trail, a former railway line, for a while and cross Rau d’Hernoy. In the midst of scarcely used roads and forest paths, you will also see the former quarry in Roc, which is famous for its beautiful pink marble (known as Rance marble). En route, you pass the home of a marble worker built from pink marble in 1910. 

Starting from the Chemin des Quinze Pieds car park, the Promenade de l’Ermitage leads you to the heart of the Rance national forest. It primarily comprises oak trees, hornbeams, beech trees, cherry trees, maple trees and ash trees. Some resinous varieties have been planted along the trails. The entire area has economic, ecological and social functions. The entire forest is ‘Natura 2000’-listed, a sign of significant biological quality, and PEFC-certified, which guarantees sustainable management. The route follows wooded trails, but you will briefly follow plains and see the Ermitage farmhouse in the background. When the weather is fine, you can make out the tower of the Eau d’Heure dams in the distance on your right.

These two immense dams, ValJoly lake and the Eau d’Heure lakes spreading over 180 and 600 hectares respectively invite you to relax and enjoy a host of sports and leisure activities: golf, mini-golf, swimming, wellness, mountain-biking, Nordic walking, pedaloes, windsurfing, stand-up paddle-boarding, water-skiing, and more. IN Sivry-Rance, a charming wooded landscape unfurls between forest paths, countryside tracks and pools. Visit Magma dedicated to the history of marble and the mining of Rance red marble. You can also stay in atypical accommodation such as a ‘roulette’, a bubble or a cabin. 

From Rance, whose landscape is criss-crossed by small streams, ponds, woods and hedgerows, you can continue your discovery of our beautiful countryside in the area around Froidchapelle, with its rich built and natural heritage. After a brief stretch alongside the Cerfontaine airfield and village, you’ll reach the Eau d’Heure Lakes and their impressive Plate Taille dam, the only one you can visit in Belgium. Enjoy the magnificent views along the water.

After passing the Cerfontaine aerodrome, you enter the lush Bois de Senzeille forest. A special ambience hangs over the former railway line, along with a range of picture-perfect landscapes. Pass through the former Beauchâteau quarry, a gem of Walloon heritage. Red marble was extracted here until 1950. This site has been classified as a site of ‘Major Biological Interest’ since 1992 and is beloved by hikers, divers and climbers thanks to its unique geological and biological features. After Neuville, you cross the bridge over the N5 on Rue de l’Arbalète. Finally, you end your journey at the streams in Hermeton Valley, which is named after a tributary of the Meuse, by passing through the charming villages of Samart and Sautour.  

The itinerary starts at Place de Rance and the museum dedicated to the history of marble and the exploitation of red marble from Rance. The route takes you to iconic locations in the village: sometimes through woods, sometimes near water or ponds on the borders of the forest. The route takes you to the former quarries where the famed Rance marble was once extracted: ‘Carrière à Roc’, ‘Carrière de la Marzelle’ and ‘Carrière Fosset’. The house of a former marble worker, which adjoins ‘Carrière à Roc’, dates to 1910 and showcases red Rance marble that is striped with grey veins and white and blueish spots.

Fun is guaranteed at the ValJoly tourist resort on the edge of the largest lake in northern France. At the Eau d’Heure lakes, discover the basics of dam-building, as well as the many water sports and recreational, sporting and relaxation activities. The Eau d’Heure lakes and ValJoly lake are real gems of unspoilt nature, and were both built in the 70s to create one water dam to regulate the flow of the Sambre river and another the Helpe Majeure river. Stop in the charming little village of Thuillies, and the town of Beaumont which is known for its tasty macarons and its legend of Charles V. 

This route, which slips between Belgium and France, boasts fields, forests, wooded countryside, lakes and rivers. There’s a poetic ambience along the Sambre river whose fauna and flora change throughout the seasons. The charming towns of Thuin, Lobbes and Chimay reveal an impressive heritage. In an unspoilt green setting with a convivial ambience, stop by the Eau d’Heure lakes with their variety of recreational, sports and relaxation activities. Not to mention the fine flavours of the liqueurs, brandies and gins of the Biercée distillery and the Trappist beers of Chimay at the Espace Chimay, etc. 

A bucolic private holiday home that offers total serenity and modern comfort. Nestled near the Eau d’Heure Lakes site with its water sports activities, the owners of La Pierraille welcome you to a relaxing rural setting. Its 17-acre enclosed garden is ideal for rest and relaxation surrounded by preserved flora and fauna. The furnished pergola is ideal for a barbecue, even when the weather is not. An ideal location for anyone looking for peace and rural living while still being close to everything. The RAVeL linking the lakes is located nearby – 500 metres away – offering pleasant, marked walking trails. 

Near the Eau d’Heure lakes, the Pont Alsort apartment with a terrace is the ideal place for a break to get away from it all with family and/or friends. This holiday rental has bright rooms with a modern, relaxing décor. You can bask in the sun on the south-facing wooden terrace. Kicking back in the jacuzzi with a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside is an absolute must. The owners offer you breakfast and meal packs. Just five minutes away at the Eau d’Heure lakes there’s a whole host of recreational, sporting and leisure activities on offer. Not to mention the many signposted walking and cycling trails.

Located in the heart of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse region, in a verdant, forested setting at the heart of the bucolic village of Fourbechies, this charming refurbished home welcomes you into a comfortable and pleasant environment. You can enjoy its spacious garden, which has a pretty view of the countryside. La Sautizelle holiday rental boasts rustic furnishings and a simple décor. Ideal for a pleasant weekend getaway, or a week away with family or friends. It is located close to the Eau d’Heure Lakes site and the many outdoor, water sports and recreational activities that are found there, as well as the Aquascope de Virelles and the famous Chimay. 

Located in the countryside and converted from a 19th-century barn made from local stone, this comfortable and spacious holiday rental promises a rural escape. The owners of Taille à Genettes offer a warm welcome to their home, which is equipped with all contemporary and environmentally friendly comforts while retaining its rustic appeal. The establishment adjoins a small, authentic farmhouse, with its pretty garden and a small grove available for your use. It is situated a few hundred metres from the RAVeL and close to tourist attractions such as the Eau d’Heure Lakes, Virelles Lake and Chimay.  

Located three kilometres from the Eau d'Heure Lakes recreational site, this 18th-century building was once a farmhouse, and now promises a relaxing and reinvigorating stay. The owners of the Ferme du Ravet - Le Petit Logis have kept the materials in this farmhouse authentic by adding contemporary and refined décor. The rooms are bright and thoughtfully arranged. The charming garden offers a beautiful view over more than two hectares of meadow. Horse-riding enthusiasts can leave their horse in the available meadows, or in a box. Pleasant hikes, cycling routes and horse-riding itineraries are available near the accommodation.   

Spread across 50 hectares, the Pro1Golf Entertainment Center at the Eau d’Heure Lakes boasts facilities that allow golfers of all ages and experience levels to have fun. Whether you’re a novice or seasoned golfer, playing with friends or as a family, you can have fun, improve your technique and enjoy a pleasant day out. The one-of-a-kind Pro1Golf Academy has different themed stations, which allow golfers of all experience levels to train for any situation they may encounter on a course. Finally, more experienced golfers can enjoy a nine-hole course (par 36 – 3,000 metres) in a unique setting beside the lake. 

This accommodation overlooking a small, wooded valley and a babbling stream that runs into a fish pond is an oasis of serenity and comfort. It is located near the Eau d’Heure Lakes site with the water sports and outdoor activities found there – and the City of Chimay. The owners of La Bergerie promise a getaway that combines well-being, greenery, birdsong and unspoilt nature. For a reinvigorating and relaxing stay in the heart of nature, in a region that is packed with tourist attractions, at the starting point for hiking and cycling trails. Ideal for trips with family or friends.

On the edge of the bucolic forest of Rance, this comfortable guesthouse welcomes you to a rusty, woody and flowery setting.Near to the RAVeL network / Breakfast with local produce / Cot / Bike garage / Permaculture vegetable garden

Located at the edge of the bucolic forest in Rance, these comfortable guest rooms welcome you in a rural, wooded and flowery setting. The owners of Prés du Bois offer a warm welcome, so you’ll feel at home right away. In the morning, enjoy a hearty breakfast made from local produce. The breakfast area and lounge are open to you for relaxation purposes. The garden can be accessed by nature lovers at any time; it offers a stunning panorama over the countryside of Rance. Located a stone’s throw from the Eau d’Heure Lakes site, it is the ideal starting point for hiking. 

As a family or among friends, come and discover the fabulous history of marble: geology, palaeontology, social history and techniques, children’s library, marble creations, building site and workshop... you will explore all these aspects at MAGMA. The museum is also a documentation centre and has a rich library full of various information about the history of marble. Several specialist publications by the museum are also available. Playground for children. Visits with a trilingual audioguide.

Located at the heart of the Eau d’Heure Lakes, this wellness centre has the ideal facilities with refined, chic and urban décor. There’s nothing like quite like alternating therapeutic baths to relax and be revitalised. Traditional sauna and infrafred sauna, hammam, luminotherapy room, cold water pool and experience showers, etc. The outdoor space has a jacuzzi swimming pool and a salt sauna. Do you want to surprise a loved one with a memorable and original event? Hen party, birthday, outing with friends, etc. All kinds of private events can be accommodated. For an oasis of well-being!

In the Landal Village l’Eau d’Heure domain, you will enjoy a great family holiday. The little ones will have loads of fun in the covered playground, where there is a ball pit, giant Lego, slides, etc. In this domain that is perfectly suitable for children, the most wonderful activities are organised during the school holidays. Outdoor crazy golf and bikes for men, women and children to hire, as well as mountain bikes and electric bikes. The rolling hills, the extensive lakes and the green forests are a stunning setting.

Located on the banks of the Plate Taille lake, the Wellness Centre at Golden Lakes Hotel offers you a chance to relax for a few hours, or even a few days. Inside the Spa Area, saunas, Turkish baths, a Jacuzzi and a swimming pool with various water-based attractions will guide you towards serenity and spiritual balance. Awaken the five senses with a beauty treatment at the Treatment Area, where facial and body treatments, wellness rituals and massages are available. Don’t forget the Spa Float experience, which is accompanied by a unique combination of atmospheric lighting and relaxing music. When you emerge from the body-temperature salt water, you will feel reborn.

Whether you’re with family, friends, colleagues or on your own, enjoy a gourmet hike at Natura Parc. You’ll discover charming landscapes at the heart of the magnificent Eau d’Heure Lakes, while savouring delicious local produce. Four routes are available to suit all levels of walking ability: choose from 3.5 to 11 km. Once you've chosen your route, you’ll set off with your backpack containing everything you need to cook local produce at the heart of nature. The adventure begins with a tasty fondue to share during your hike. Please note that the dishes change periodically to offer our customers variety and encourage them to come back every season.  

Built in the 1970s to regulate the flow and level of the Sambre, it is the largest Dam in Belgium and the only one that you can visit inside. The visit starts with the origins and history of the site, with a giant model. Then it’s the start of a 450-metre walk through the dam galleries 40 metres underground. You will see the four powerful reversible pump turbines, capable of a flow at 400 m³ per second and producing electricity for 6,000 families. With easy access by lift, take the SkyWalk for a stunning view 107 metres high. It offers you a panorama over the Plate Taille, Eau d’Heure and Falemprise lakes.

Whether you’re passionate about flora and fauna or history, or simply looking for an immersive experience in the heart of nature, this activity is for you! Our guide Bernard, who has lived in a cabin in the middle of the woods for many years, will introduce you to the wildlife of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse National Park: lemon butterflies, wood pigeons, wrens, chickadees, deer, and deeper in the woods, wild boar. This enthusiastic expert will provide you with high-end optical equipment and introduce you to the art of birdwatching. It’s a unique opportunity to reconnect with nature while exploring the rich local heritage. Remember to bring hiking boots, weather-appropriate clothing and a backpack.  

This chapel was built in 1953 in honour of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. The citizens of Cerfontaine had it built in thanks for their relative safety during World War Two. The place it was built used to be called 'basse Zome' which means 'pond'.

Little is known about la Forêt du Pays de Chimay, a magnificent forest located in the southwest of Belgium, on the borders of the provinces of Hainaut and Namur. You will have the opportunity to discover a varied biodiversity around the ponds and rivers of the forest! West of the banks of the Meuse, the forest extends over the communes of Doische, Viroinval, Couvin, Philippeville, Sivry-rance, Momignies, Chimay and Froidchapelle.

This monument was inaugurated on 28th October 1923. It shows the names of the 3 soldiers who died during World War II, as well as the names of all the victims of World War II: 4 soldiers who died in captivity; 6 civilian casualties; 2 victims of the Holocaust and 10 prisoners who died in concentration camps after the 'Maquis de Senzeilles' catastrophe.

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.    

In the heart of Pays des Lacs, Le Tri-Marrants stands out thanks to its modern setting and panoramic view of Plate Taille lake. A restaurant cooking cuisine that combines the charm of a bistro with the elegance of fine dining. And all with seasonal local flavours: piglet with "65" Chimay cheese sauce, Lac-Iflette & seasonal salad (potatoes, bacon, La Dame des Lacs beer, cheese from Ferme des Queuwys), Chimay escabeche, etc. From the best Belgian beers such as Chimay and Blond/Brown La Dame des Lacs to the great whiskeys, there is something for everyone at their bar. Available for family parties, birthdays, etc. Private bookings taken.

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.

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.

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.

Close to the Eau d’Heure lakes, Auberge du Coin offers varied gourmet cuisine: a small restaurant, traditional dishes, hearty dishes, etc. Everything is designed for your enjoyment. Recently purchased by Mariane and Ronny who love the region. The couple will be happy to welcome you in a friendly atmosphere. They're passionate about the restaurant business and will delight your taste buds with their cooking and give you a heart-warming welcome. The two are originally from Charleroi and you will be able to taste the beer of the Pays Noir brewery as well as the beers of Chimay or the Brasserie des Fagnes. With a real mingling of flavours, it is also a good place for meeting the locals.

Chinese food- Cantonese specialties, catering service; Takeaway food - 10%. Large private parking

Close to the Eau d’Heure lakes, Chez l’Père Sarrasin is, above all, about atmosphere: a place where history and terroir have led to the creation of a family restaurant in a welcoming and picturesque setting. You can enjoy authentic and high-quality French-Italian cuisine. Cooked to order, the chef will showcase his specialities using beer from Brasserie de Silenrieux (located in the same building), such as La Joseph or even La Sarra.

A bucolic private holiday home that offers total serenity and modern comfort. Nestled near the Eau d’Heure Lakes site with its water sports activities, the owners of La Pierraille welcome you to a relaxing rural setting. Its 17-acre enclosed garden is ideal for rest and relaxation surrounded by preserved flora and fauna. The furnished pergola is ideal for a barbecue, even when the weather is not. An ideal location for anyone looking for peace and rural living while still being close to everything. The RAVeL linking the lakes is located nearby – 500 metres away – offering pleasant, marked walking trails. 

Near the Eau d’Heure lakes, the Pont Alsort apartment with a terrace is the ideal place for a break to get away from it all with family and/or friends. This holiday rental has bright rooms with a modern, relaxing décor. You can bask in the sun on the south-facing wooden terrace. Kicking back in the jacuzzi with a breathtaking view of the surrounding countryside is an absolute must. The owners offer you breakfast and meal packs. Just five minutes away at the Eau d’Heure lakes there’s a whole host of recreational, sporting and leisure activities on offer. Not to mention the many signposted walking and cycling trails.

This light, rural, functional residence decorated with surprising objects, including one in the shape of a boat, offers peace and quiet, or a romantic getaway.Near to the Eau d'Heure and Chimay lakes

Located in a verdant rural setting, this modern holiday rental, which was converted from a former 19th-century farmhouse, offers all modern comforts and a breathtaking view of the fields. The owners of A La Petite Eolienne provide a warm welcome to their well-equipped establishment, which is situated in a very quiet area (the only neighbour is a farmer 100 metres away). Ideal for couples or families who want to relax or escape to the countryside. If it takes your fancy, you can discover the incredible Eau d’Heure Lakes site nearby, or even the charming city of Chimay and its Château Princier.  

Located in the heart of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse region, in a verdant, forested setting at the heart of the bucolic village of Fourbechies, this charming refurbished home welcomes you into a comfortable and pleasant environment. You can enjoy its spacious garden, which has a pretty view of the countryside. La Sautizelle holiday rental boasts rustic furnishings and a simple décor. Ideal for a pleasant weekend getaway, or a week away with family or friends. It is located close to the Eau d’Heure Lakes site and the many outdoor, water sports and recreational activities that are found there, as well as the Aquascope de Virelles and the famous Chimay. 

Located in the countryside and converted from a 19th-century barn made from local stone, this comfortable and spacious holiday rental promises a rural escape. The owners of Taille à Genettes offer a warm welcome to their home, which is equipped with all contemporary and environmentally friendly comforts while retaining its rustic appeal. The establishment adjoins a small, authentic farmhouse, with its pretty garden and a small grove available for your use. It is situated a few hundred metres from the RAVeL and close to tourist attractions such as the Eau d’Heure Lakes, Virelles Lake and Chimay.