Holidayhomes in Hainaut
Hainaut is a French-speaking province in Belgium and is a region full of surprises and hidden treasures. Nature lovers are sure to enjoy the area but culture lovers are also in their element in this region full of tradition and folklore.
The region of Tournai (Doornik in Dutch) is very interesting. The city of Tournai itself is one of the oldest cities in Belgium and offers many interesting sights such as the mixed Romanesque and Gothic-style cathedral of Notre Dame de Tournai and the belfry, the oldest in Belgium (both UNESCO World Heritage Sites). The city is one of the most important cultural sites in Belgium. You can stroll down the Pont-des-Trous (13th century bridge) and main square (Grand Place, with cafes and pubs) and visit several old city gates, historic warehouses and a variety of museums. The 14th century castle of Beloeil is very worthwhile for art lovers, culminating in its 20,000 volume library. After a bit of reading you are welcome to relax in the castle. In Aubechies there is a lively archaeological museum with various exhibitions about life in the Gallo-Roman village. In the region you will find numerous other interesting sights including: Attre Castle, Parc Paradisio (interesting zoo), Notre-Dame a la Rose in Lessines, Pays des Collines in Ellezelles, the Sugar Museum of Frasnes and the Oldtimers in Leuze.
Near Mons (Bergen), the capital of the province, there is plenty to see and do. The city itself has a wonderful belfry with 49 bells (the cathedral dedicated to St. Waltrude (St Waudru in French) is the biggest tourist attraction of the city). The market is very nice and there are a host of festivities held throughout the year. Furthermore, the city has numerous museums that are all worth a visit. Near the town you will find an old castle ruin. The former castle of Havre has a beautiful rose garden. For geology enthusiasts there is an old quarry in Obourg, where a beautiful geological garden has been laid out. In Fameries there is the Science Adventure Park (PASS – Parc d’Adventures Scientifique) built on an old mine site. Here you can spend the entire day enjoying the marvels of the scientific community. Grand-Hornu is another old mining site situated in the heart of the Borinage, and certainly worth a visit.
The Canal du Centre is a major attraction in this region. This channel connects Brussels with the Sambre. In total the canal has a relief of 89 meters and contains numerous locks. The section between Thieu and Houdeng-Geognis is to steep for a canal lock so it contains 4 hydraulic boat lifts (dating from 1888-1917; part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List). The oldest lift is now a museum. In 2002 a new lift opened, which at the time was the tallest in the world. The province also has numerous castles you can visit.
Belgium’s cities are known for their culture, and the county of Hainaut certainly has its share. Binche is known for its carnival (proclaimed one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO) and castle ruins. You can stroll along the remaining 25 watchtowers. For culture lovers, Charleroi is highly recommended. Here you will find many interesting museums such as the municipal museum and the photography museum. Thuin is a beautiful medieval town with wonderful narrow streets. The ship museum (naval museum) is an absolute must. The place is also inextricably linked with Chimay beer and cheese. You can visit the brewery, but even more interesting are the castle, chapel and cozy theater. Lake Virelles and the lakes of L’Eau d’Heure are also worthwhile and offer a variety of aquatic sports activities.