Attractions and Places To See around Laires - Top 19
Best attractions and places to see around Laires, a commune in the Pas-de-Calais department of northern France, offers a tranquil base for exploration. The surrounding region features a rich tapestry of notable landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites. Visitors can discover historical architecture, serene natural landscapes, and significant cultural heritage within a short distance.
Best attractions and places to see around Laires
- The most popular attractions is Moulin Espagnol d'Enquin les Mines, a historic mill that was built around 1635 on the banks of the Lacquette River. This former flour mill, now a private residence, features a restored waterwheel and a dam that creates a waterfall.
- Another must-see spot is Birthplace of Saint Benoît Labre, a significant pilgrimage site. This small country cottage in Amettes is dedicated to the memory of Saint Benoît-Joseph Labre, housing objects that belonged to him.
- Visitors also love Amettes, a picturesque village. It is an essential stop on the religious route of the Via Francigena and is known for being the birthplace of Saint Benoît-Joseph Labre.
- Laires is known for its historical sites, charming villages, and natural features. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient mills to significant cultural landmarks and the source of the River Lys.
- The attractions around Laires are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 19 upvotes and 14 photos shared.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
Moulin Espagnol d'Enquin les Mines
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It is built with brick and stone (white limestone). All that remains of the original building is the north gable (17th century), and also a porch. The water wheel is still in place but it no longer turns. The dam forms a pretty waterfall. A turret was added on the river side. It is a very beautiful private home with a beautiful garden in which you can see a stone fountain.
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Birthplace of Saint Benoît Labre
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The birthplace of Saint Benoît-Joseph, a small country cottage, has become a major place of pilgrimage in Artois dedicated to his memory bringing together objects that belonged to him.
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Amettes
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Source of the River Lys
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Enquin les Mines
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In 1905, the name of the municipality was changed from Enquin to Enquin-les-Mines, referring to the mining.
However, the mine suffered somewhat from poorer access and less large coal and ultimately proved to be unprofitable. The mine closed definitively in 1928.
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A very well-known place for pilgrims and a good tavern which recently reopened: LA TABLE DE ST BENOIT.
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This picturesque village owes much of its fame to the birth of Saint Benedict Joseph Labre, born in the village in 1748. It is also an essential stop on the religious route of the Via Francigena.
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The patron saint of the marginalized, Saint Benedict Joseph Labre, was born in 1748 in the picturesque village of Amettes. He is better known as "God's Traveler." A French mendicant pilgrim, he traveled the roads of Europe, from sanctuary to sanctuary until his final stop: Rome. He was canonized in 1881. The birthplace of Saint Benedict Joseph, a small chalet, has become an important pilgrimage site in Artois, dedicated to his memory and housing his belongings.
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Enquin was located on the western edge of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais coal basin, which was mined on a large scale in the 19th century and around 1850 coal was also being sought in Enquin. Initially, the mine had a good yield. The mining company built a town with miners' houses between Enquin and Fléchinelle. In 1905, the name of the municipality was changed from Enquin to Enquin-les-Mines, referring to the mining. However, the mine suffered somewhat from poorer access and less large coal and ultimately proved to be unprofitable. The mine closed definitively in 1928.
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Patron saint of the marginalized, Saint Benoît-Joseph Labre was born in the picturesque village of Amettes in 1748. He is better known as the “wanderer of God”. A French beggar pilgrim, he traveled the roads of Europe going from sanctuary to sanctuary until his final stop: Rome. He was canonized in 1881. The birthplace of Saint Benoît-Joseph, a small country cottage, has become a major place of pilgrimage in Artois dedicated to his memory bringing together objects that belonged to him.
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This Spanish mill was built around 1635, on the banks of the Lacquette River. It produced flour until 1938, then milling for livestock. It was bought in 1974 to be transformed into a home. It is built with brick and stone (white limestone). All that remains of the original building is the north gable (17th century), and also a porch. The water wheel is still in place but it no longer turns. The dam forms a pretty waterfall. A turret was added on the river side. It is a very beautiful private home with a beautiful garden in which you can see a stone fountain.
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The Spanish mill of Enquin les Mines is a former water mill which dates from the 17th century and was used to produce flour and animal feed until 1938. It is today a private residence with a beautiful garden and a fountain. You can admire the old brick and stone building, the restored waterwheel and the waterfall created by the dam on the Laquette.
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Spanish style water mill. No longer operational
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Laires?
The region around Laires offers several historical sites. You can explore the historic Moulin Espagnol d'Enquin les Mines, a 17th-century mill with a restored waterwheel. The village of Amettes is significant as the birthplace of Saint Benoît-Joseph Labre and a stop on the Via Francigena. Further afield, the coastal city of Boulogne-sur-Mer features an old town with ramparts, while Saint-Omer and Arras are recognized as 'Towns of Art and History'.
Are there any significant religious sites in the area?
Yes, the Birthplace of Saint Benoît Labre in Amettes is a major pilgrimage site, dedicated to the memory of Saint Benoît-Joseph Labre and housing objects that belonged to him. The picturesque village of Amettes itself is an essential stop on the religious route of the Via Francigena. Additionally, the small Picardy village of Saint-Riquier, about 50 km southwest, features an attractive Benedictine abbey church.
What natural attractions are there around Laires?
Nature enthusiasts can visit the Source of the River Lys, a humble beginning to a significant waterway. For impressive coastal landscapes, the 'Grand Sites of France' Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez are approximately 57 km away. Closer to Laires, the Etangs Martin Pêcheur in Matringhem offer a serene setting with 12 ponds spread across 9 hectares, ideal for relaxation and fishing.
Are there opportunities for hiking near Laires?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities around Laires. You can find various trails, including easy and moderate options, such as the 'Source of the Lys loop from Lisbourg' (12.2 km) or the 'Hiking loop from Enquin-les-Mines' (4.6 km). For more detailed routes and options, explore the Hiking around Laires guide.
What cycling routes are available around Laires?
The area around Laires is well-suited for cycling. You can find both mountain biking (MTB) and road cycling routes. MTB options include the 'Small bridge over the laquette loop from Erny-Saint-Julien' (68 km, difficult) or the 'Source of the Lys loop from Bomy' (51.9 km, moderate). Road cyclists can enjoy routes like the 'Waterfall of Nave river in Bourecq – Amettes loop from Fléchin' (51.9 km, moderate). For a comprehensive list, check the MTB Trails around Laires and Road Cycling Routes around Laires guides.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions near Laires?
While Laires itself is small, the surrounding area offers family-friendly options. For younger children, equestrian centers like Les Écuries de l'Éode and Aux Allures d'un Cheval offer pony and riding lessons, including 'baby pony' sessions for children as young as three. The Mareis aquarium, located 44 km away, is another engaging option for families. Local markets in nearby towns like Fruges and Aire-sur-la-Lys provide a glimpse into local life and fresh produce.
What is the history of Enquin les Mines?
Enquin les Mines was historically a coal mining town located on the western edge of the Nord-Pas-de-Calais coal basin. Coal was sought here around 1850, and the mining company even built a town for miners. The municipality's name was changed in 1905 to reflect its mining heritage. However, the mine proved unprofitable due to poorer access and less large coal, eventually closing in 1928.
Are there any coastal attractions or beaches near Laires?
Yes, the region offers notable coastal attractions. The 'Grand Sites of France' Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, approximately 57 km from Laires, provide stunning natural coastal landscapes. Further west, Le Touquet, an upmarket seaside resort about 47 km away, is considered one of the most popular coastal destinations in the area, offering beaches and resort amenities.
What local experiences or markets can I find near Laires?
To experience local life, you can visit the markets in nearby towns. Fruges hosts a market on Saturdays (9km away), Aire-sur-la-Lys on Fridays (15km away), Auchel on Tuesdays (15km away), and Lillers on Saturdays (16km away). These markets are excellent places to find regional products and observe local customs.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Laires?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. Highlights like the Moulin Espagnol d'Enquin les Mines are admired for their historical architecture and picturesque settings, including the restored waterwheel and waterfall. The serene atmosphere of the Source of the River Lys and the cultural significance of Amettes also receive positive feedback, making the area appealing for those seeking a tranquil exploration of heritage and nature.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions in the Laires area?
While not widely publicized, the Etangs Martin Pêcheur in Matringhem (about 6 km from Laires) can be considered a peaceful 'hidden gem' for nature lovers and fishing enthusiasts. These 12 ponds are spread across 9 hectares in a beautiful, wooded landscape, offering a tranquil escape for outdoor activities.
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