Explore Tournai, Hainaut, Hainaut: A Belgian Gem

What to see? Tournai’s UNESCO-worthy belfry and cathedral, the lakes at Cerfontaine, the Château in Beloeil and Hitler’s hideaway in Brûly-de-Pesche. Where to drive? The N598 over the tranquil lakes, the N59 to sample Wallonia’s customary mix of open fields and close-set villages, the roads around Brûly for compact twists in a tunnel of green. Just eight kilometres from the French border and 90 minutes from the Channel Tunnel, the city of Tournai is the medieval gateway to Wallonia. Clustered around the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, itself a UNSECO world heritage site that mixes Gothic and Romanesque styles, the centre delights with open squares, cobbled streets and cultural sights. The remains of the 17th century citadel commissioned by King Louis XIV and the art gallery that houses a range of Impressionist works demand attention, but the city’s most remarkable story is almost invisible. Besieged in 1513 and held for the next ve years, Tournai is the only continental European city to ever fall under the control of Henry VIII. One of the main towers built during the occupation – the Grosse Tour – still stands in the north of the city. Spy it from Rue de Rempart, then pick up the N7 for a leisurely cruise east through Leuze-en-Hainaut and the N526 heading south. The pace soon slows, the route wandering through the centre of Belœil, and a keen eye might spot the entrance to the local château. A multi-era building that sits within acres of pristine Baroque garden, it’s well worth a stop. Nearby Chemin du Major oŸers another angle on the estate, skimming along the perimeter to oŸer a glimpse of the grounds’ imposing water features. If it’s tranquil vistas you’re after, the N90 and N59 track over open land to the expansive Lakes of Cerfontaine but that’s no reason to miss Mons. Hungry travellers will welcome the restaurants that ¡ank the main square here, while the Biercée Distillery in nearby Thuin will satisfy passengers looking for something stronger. Fast twists lead on into Chimay where glimpses of Armco and coloured kerbing reveal that you’re on the route of the Chimay road circuit, once host to Maserati 250Fs and straight-eight Bugattis, now a classic motorcycle racing venue. The town’s streets fuss with antique terrace housing and the local Abbey is renowned for its brewery. Amble south through the trees and turns of the Rue des Parconniers and Brûly-de-Pesche eventually appears. A short walk in the forest brings you to Wolf’s Gorge – the secret base where Hitler resided in May and June 1940. His walking route and emergency bunker have both been preserved; to walk into the sparse concrete interior is unsettling but highly recommended. Dinant, the birthplace of saxophone inventer Adolf Sax, echoes to jazz. The medieval fortress towers above the town, the local scenery rewards a Meuse river cruise and the restaurants tempt with popular moules marinière.

What to see? Mahymobiles for an excellent car collection, full of unrestored and premium vintage machines, the expansive Pairi Daiza zoo, a curious boat lift and a Huyssens baroque church in Namur. Where to drive? The N947 outside Namur for thrills and the roads twisting up to the citadel for grandeur, unparalleled views and cobblestones. Lovely as they may be, there’s more to Wallonia than castles and lakes. A 20- minute blink from Tournai, Leuze-enHainaut snares unsuspecting petrolheads with the excellent Mahymobiles museum – expect coachbuilt Packards, the Alfa Romeo RL SS that took a podium at the 1926 German Grand Prix and more – and nearby Brugelette stuns with a very different kind of collection. From its 65-hectare site to its status as Belgium’s most popular tourist attraction, the Pairi Daiza zoological gardens know how to live large. This extends to themed gardens and enclosures that can be viewed by path, steam train and suspension bridge. Now drive east over the N57 to Écaussinnes. From here, the road cuts between the trees to run north along the line of the BrusselsCharleroi canal until you reach the Plan Incliné de Ronquières. This mechanical curiosity has been here since 1968 and succeeds the 14 locks that previously carried boats over the local geography. Vessels are now placed on giant crates of water and winched over the incline within minutes and creates a remarkable sight. Back on the road, the N533’s gentle curves carry you through Nivelle, home to an imposing Romanesque collegiate church, and onto the N237. Quiet Genappe punctuates the drive east and marks the point where the roads get twister and forest views more dramatic. Fast and challenging, the next ten minutes are all about driving. You’ll roar back into the light just above Abbaye de Villers to pick up the southbound N275. Villers-la-Ville passes in a flash, before a hard left onto the N93. Namur – a medieval city that sits between the Meuse and Sambre rivers and hosts an extensive citadel – is the target now. The centre is best explored on foot, so park up and marvel at the belfry, cathedral and cavernous 16th century Halle al’Chair butcher’s building. Finish at the Saint-Loup church and you’ll save the best for last. Giddyingly excessive, the 1621 Catholic church exhibits the Baroque works of Huyssens. The Meuse snakes away from the city, the N947 a rollercoaster along its every move, and you pass through the villages of Wépion and Rivière until the signs to Crupet appear. The village has been voted one of the prettiest villages in Wallonia – while the road east bumbles past churches and townhouses before merging into the twisty and engaging N944. Progress gets faster over the open, flowing roads of Ciney and Buissonville, then Marche-en-Famenne appears to complete the route. Nearby Château Jemeppe offers a fittingly grandiose overnight stop for groups. All 77 rooms are uniquely appointed and the classically-appointed common areas evoke Belgium’s most famous fictional detective.

Get on your bike and go from one UNESCO gem to another in the South of Belgium! This open-air adventure, which follows the local ‘RAVeL’ and ‘Points-Noeuds’ cycling network, can be easily adapted to your desires: a gentle one-day ride or a few days itinerary. There is much to see in our beautiful region… Between Tournai and on to the remarkable Blegny-Mine site - located at the gateway of the Netherlands, enjoy the stunning, varied landscapes of the Hainaut plains, the Meuse river, the Condroz hills and the secret Ardenne valleys. Dotted here and there, get to admire exceptional historical treasures, included in UNESCO’s list of World Heritage sites, as well as other fantastic tourist attractions. Add to this a selection of bike-friendly lodgings… it's a magical 500 km Wallonian adventure that is sure to stay in your treasured holiday memory chest.

Tournai, City of 5 bell towers, reveals its heritage and history: its belfry and cathedral, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, its Grand-Place and its quays along the Scheldt…Take the time to look at the bronze statuettes and information panels along the route to find out about historical figures and the town’s history and unusual features. Enjoy the friendly atmosphere in the cafés along the quays; or take the time to enjoy a Tournay on the Grand-Place while the children have fun in the jets of water!

Tournai, city of Art and History but also gastronomy! In the city of the five bell towers, a multitude of typical cafes and local shops invite you to discover local produce. After pedalling in the Tournai countryside you arrive in Brunehaut where the brewery of the same name presents traditional beers, the pride of the region: Abbey of St. Martin, Brunehaut Bio Blonde... You return quietly to Tournai along the water.Cycle Nodes: START 85 - 36 - 47 - 40 - 78 - 55 - 58 - 57 - 66 - 69 - 70 - 71 - 77 - 80 - 83 - 90 - 91 - 92 - 93 - 59 - 58 - 96 - 97 - 15 - 25 - 9 - 11 - 8 - 49 - 48 - 36 - 85 END

With its two millennia of history, Tournai invites you to discover its exceptional heritage. The belfry and the cathedral, classified as UNESCO world heritage sites, the Grand Place, Cloth Hall... all these symbols are the pride of the city. This tour takes you into the Tournai countryside up to the outskirts of Grand Large de Péronnes, a site that’s completely safe for stabilisers. Take the opportunity to stop for a picnic break or have a drink on the terrace at the water's edge. On the way back, you’ll enjoy the comings and goings of barges on the Scheldt, testifying to the river’s ceaseless activity.Cycle-nodes : START 85 - 36 - 47 - 46 - 75 - 77 - 68 - 72 - 82 - 73 - 84 - 81 - 83 - 90 - 57 - 58 - 96 - 13 - 14 - 53 - 73 - 94 - 56 - 52 - 92 - 45 - 21 - 74 - 54 - 55 - 53 - 14 - 13 - 15 - 25 - 9 - 11 - 8 - 49 - 48 - 36 - 85 END

From the City of Five Steeples to the City of Hurlus Get ready for two great days in Picardy Wallonia between Tournai and Mouscron along the French border. Start the adventure on foot or by bike from Tournai, the City of Five Steeples. The name was given due to the five towers of its cathedral and is one of the oldest cities in Belgium. Everywhere you go you’ll find traces of multi-millennial history in its preserved architecture. In particular, the oldest Belfry in Belgium as well as Notre-Dame Cathedral and heritage sites from medieval times, both on the UNESCO list. Another highlight is the Museum of Fine Arts designed by Victor Horta. In this impressive building, you’ll discover the paintings of great names in art, from the middle ages to the present day. You then leave Tournai, following the recently re-developed banks of the River Scheldt in the direction of ‘Mont Saint-Aubert’. Once you’ve made the climb you’ll be rewarded with a superb panorama of Tournai and its surrounding countryside. Then, as you follow the canals again you’ll discover the Domaine and ‘Château de Bourgogne’, arriving in Mouscron where you can admire its famous ‘Château des Comtes’. Mouscron was nicknamed the City of Hurlus in reference to a character who lived on crimes of all kinds in the region during the religious wars in the 16th century. This resulted in the Hurlus festival which takes place every first weekend of October and is punctuated by trumpets, drums and folkloric characters. Picardy Wallonia is full of surprises you won’t expect.

From the City of Five Steeples to the City of Hurlus Get ready for two great days in Picardy Wallonia between Tournai and Mouscron along the French border. Start the adventure on foot or by bike from Tournai, the City of Five Steeples. The name was given due to the five towers of its cathedral and is one of the oldest cities in Belgium. Everywhere you go you’ll find traces of multi-millennial history in its preserved architecture. In particular, the oldest Belfry in Belgium as well as Notre-Dame Cathedral and heritage sites from medieval times, both on the UNESCO list. Another highlight is the Museum of Fine Arts designed by Victor Horta. In this impressive building, you’ll discover the paintings of great names in art, from the middle ages to the present day. You then leave Tournai, following the recently re-developed banks of the River Scheldt in the direction of ‘Mont Saint-Aubert’. Once you’ve made the climb you’ll be rewarded with a superb panorama of Tournai and its surrounding countryside. Then, as you follow the canals again you’ll discover the Domaine and ‘Château de Bourgogne’, arriving in Mouscron where you can admire its famous ‘Château des Comtes’. Mouscron was nicknamed the City of Hurlus in reference to a character who lived on crimes of all kinds in the region during the religious wars in the 16th century. This resulted in the Hurlus festival which takes place every first weekend of October and is punctuated by trumpets, drums and folkloric characters. Picardy Wallonia is full of surprises you won’t expect.

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

Located in the historical centre of the Town of Tournai, Hôtel Peeters houses an atypical museum which is devoted to puppetry arts in all their forms. The Puppet Centre will take you on a voyage of discovery, during which the Centre's hidden treasures will be revealed to you – treasures from the four corners of the earth. This trip around the world will thus take you in the footsteps of the most popular figures in European puppet theatre, known by the young and the not-so-young alike, but also in the footsteps of the typical characters and techniques found in the puppetry traditions of various African and Asian countries. Apart from the heritage items stored in the museum, the Puppet Centre offering for visitors also consists not only of various temporary exhibitions, educational events (upon request), creative workshops, but also many shows, training sessions and courses for children and adults. NEW! An unaccompanied tour for families entitled "Jack s'est fait la malle" – the puppet called Jack has disappeared! The only evidence of where he has been are the selfies that he has hidden, here and there, in the museum's rooms. We need you to help him to get back to his designated place amongst the other puppets! During your investigation, you will have to solve riddles, experiment with various puppet handling techniques, observe the puppets in detail, imitate their expressions, touch the material they are made of, and so forth. Available every day the museum is open. We prefer that you book in advance (by calling us on +32 (0)69 889 140 or by emailing us at maisondelamarionnette@skynet.be).

The Centre de la Tapisserie, des Arts Muraux et des Arts du Tissu (Centre for Tapestry, Mural Arts and Textile Arts) is one of the five contemporary centres established by the Wallonia-Brussels Federation in the field of textile art. The fact that it is established in Tournai is not insignificant, as the “capital” of Wallonie picarde was one of the country’s main centres of tapestry production in the 15th and 16th centuries. The TAMAT is housed in a beautiful mansion in neo-classicist style, the Museum of Tapestry of the City of Tournai.The collections of the TAMAT are an accurate reflection of the diversity of textile art. More than 250 items from 6 centuries of textile production are exhibited, from old 15th-century tapestries – remarkable heritage of the City of Tournai - over items from the post-war movement “Forces Murales” to contemporary works.The TAMAT also houses research workshops. Every year scholarship holders come here to work in total artistic freedom. A documentation and study centre welcomes researchers, students, teachers and the general public within the context of historical or biographical studies. Moreover, a conservation and restoration workshop, open to the public, enables visitors to gain an insight into the painstakingly slow and meticulous work done by the restorers, who will gladly answer any and all questions.

Dating from the 12th century, the belfry of Tournai is the oldest in Belgium. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its height of 72 m, the belfry dominates the Grand-Place square. While climbing the 257 steps to the top, you will discover educational exhibits, the dungeon, the bellringer’s room and the peal of bells itself, which can be heard in the entire city on Sundays in the summer season (at 3.30 pm).Constructed in 1192, the belfry of Tournai was the symbol of communal liberties. Its bell (the “Bancloque”) informed the citizens of trials and executions and warned them of invasions, fires… The belfry was used as watchtower, prison, bell tower and town hall. At the first floor, you can enjoy a breath-taking view of Tournai and its vicinity.

Included on the UNESCO World Heritage list, the Gothic belfry at Tournai is the oldest in Belgium. A potent symbol of municipal freedom, it was probably built after Philippe II Auguste, king of France, gave the town its charter of freedom in 1188. The lower belfry is believed to date from that period, although it was altered at the end of the 14th century during the construction of the upper belfry, which contains the bells and clock, and displays great architectural unity. The belfry owes its present appearance to 19th-century restoration work, and to a lesser extent, 20th-century restoration work. It will soon house a museum. Building listed by RD (15-09-1936) World Heritage listed in December 1999 Listed as an exceptional heritage site of Wallonia

  Saint-Quentin church is a Romanesque and transitional building. The Romanesque church, built in around 1200, was cruciform and today there still remain the nave, transept and transition crossing tower, two chapels and the upper part of the chancel. In the 13th century, the arches of the chevet were added, along with the arms of the transept and other chapels. The lower part of the chancel was rebuilt in the 15th century, ringed by an ambulatory and three chapels. The main restoration was carried out after the bombing in the Second World War. This work was completed in 1968. The Romanesque façade, flanked by two corner turrets, is made up of three levels topped by a triangular gable. The first level features a neo-Romanesque door, the second three large Gothic windows ahead of a way through and the third features alternating blind and open Roman windows. Above the crossing is a squat tower topped by a pyramidal spire. The tower is enclosed by four octagonal corner turrets with pinnacles. The nave rises to three levels with five bays. The higher it goes, the larger the windows and more light enters the building. The nave has a flat wooden ceiling. The prominent transept with two bays has two windows, above which is a large round window. The arms of the transept have a vaulted ceiling. The chancel has one bay and seven walls. It is vaulted in white stone and surrounded by a late Gothic Tournai ambulatory with large windows under an archivolt. This is crowned by a ridged vault in Tournai stone. Note the polychrome vaults in the axial chapel dating from the 15th century depicting the four evangelists accompanied by angels, as well as the marble wall separating the chancel from the ambulatory. Listed 15-09-1936  

Tournai is best seen from its 15th century belfry, listed by UNESCO. Built on the site of the 1218 original after it burnt down, it is the oldest in Wallonia's seven belfries and the only one with outdoor viewing platforms.

Situated at 50 metres from the Grand-Place square in an authentic 17th-century building, this museum evokes daily life in Tournai during the first half of the 19th century. Rich and varied collections are exhibited in 23 rooms (1100 m²) in the form of reconstructions (pharmacy, chapel, forge, inn, kitchen, classroom), scenes with dummies and showcases full of implements and artefacts. Be sure not to miss the “jeu de fer” (a game typically played in Tournai) in the old inn and the large relief map of the city under the reign of Louis XIV (1701). Old paintings or posters on the walls of the different rooms recreate the atmosphere of bygone times. The themes of the museum include old crafts, printing, porcelain, nobility, religion, the military, domestic tools, carnival, puppets, giants, medicine, pharmacy, education, fashion, associations, music, art and scale models of the old city.

Listed by UNESCO for its 5 bell towers, its nave and transept of Romanesque style, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a gem of medieval architecture. Its rather large nave counts 4 horizontal levels along 8 spans. The columns are topped with capitals often decorated with botanical details and are all different: a hundred different pieces in total, quite unique in Belgium! walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/content/notre-dame-de-tournai-cathedral-listed-unesco

The Biérodrome, located along the Escaut, is fully dedicated to craft beer: the perfect place to satisfy your curiosity about the brewing world... and your tastebuds, of course.

Nestled in the lush setting of the 6 Bonniers Leisure Park in Willems, La Guinguette de la Base invites you to enjoy a summer filled with music, good food, and open-air relaxation A Rich and Eclectic Music Line-Up All Summer Long From June to September 2025, enjoy a series of free concerts celebrating musical diversity: French chansons, lively accordion tunes, and modern rhythms with a guinguette twist. Whether you're nostalgic for retro vibes or curious to discover new sounds, there's something for everyone! Delicious Local Cuisine in a Warm Atmosphere Treat yourself to a generous menu crafted with local and homemade products. Settle down on the shaded terrace, share a meal with friends or family, and soak up the laid-back, festive vibe that makes this guinguette truly special.       🪗 A perfect summer escape just minutes from Lille – music, nature, and good vibes guaranteed!

This brewery, one of the oldest in Wallonia, tells its story through a unique immersive experience. Then enjoy a drink on the Troll & Bush's large terrace in a lush green setting! visit.dubuisson.com/beerstorium/

The team at l'Almanach, just a stone's throw from Pierre Mauroy stadium, welcomes you in a warm setting to share a moment of pleasure and conviviality. Our menu features fresh local produce and is updated weekly! For more information, visit Instagram : www.instagram.com/almanach_restaurant/ Site internet : www.almanach-restaurant.com Contact : 03 20 41 06 55

Brasserie. For more information, visit Website : www.restaurant-labrasseriedulac.fr/ Contact : 07 88 91 22 15

Bar and restaurant with a friendly atmosphere, serving home-cooked food made with fresh local produce. Terrace in summer. For more information, visit Facebook: www.facebook.com/lescancanshem/ Contact: 03 20 35 82 65

Discover the world of the Moulins d'Ascq brewery, its commitments, its values and above all its products, beautiful 100% organic beers! For more information, visit Website: www.moulinsdascq.fr/ Facebook: www.facebook.com/moulinsdascq/ Contact: 03 20 59 79 38

For more information, visit Contact : 06 79 22 31 62

Step into summer at Parc du Lion in Wattrelos with the exclusive pop-up Bierbuik by renowned Michelin-starred chef Florent Ladeyn. Celebrated for his passionate commitment to locavore and sustainable cuisine, Ladeyn brings a vibrant Flemish guinguette right to the heart of the park — a festive, welcoming spot for an unforgettable outdoor culinary journey all summer long. Authentic 100% Local Flemish Cuisine Savor a carefully crafted menu featuring traditional Flemish specialties, all made from the freshest local ingredients. Whether you’re craving hearty stews or delicate seasonal dishes, each bite tells a story of terroir and tradition. Relax on the spacious 200-seat terrace, designed with long communal tables that invite sharing, connection, and conviviality — perfect for friends, families, and food lovers alike. Live Entertainment and Festive Atmosphere Bierbuik isn’t just about food — it’s a full sensory experience: Live music sets the mood with upbeat Flemish and international tunes Board games bring out the playful spirit for guests of all ages Various activities and animations keep the fun going for kids and adults alike Come immerse yourself in the warm, lively ambiance of Bierbuik, where every moment is crafted to create lasting memories of summer joy and togetherness.

This 18th century house in the centre of Tournai guarantees a relaxed atmosphere and a personalised welcome. Annual closure between Christmas and New Year. walloniabelgiumtourism.co.uk/en-gb/content/hotel-dalcantara