Attractions and Places To See around Leers - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Leers include a mix of historical sites, natural waterways, and cycling landmarks. The region is characterized by its proximity to the Belgium-France border, featuring canals that serve as both historical routes and modern cycle paths. Visitors can explore significant cultural sites and enjoy outdoor activities along these routes. The area offers diverse points of interest, from elevated viewpoints to renowned sporting venues.
Best attractions and places to see around Leers
- The most popular attractions is Mont-Saint-Aubert, a summit that offers a challenging climb and beautiful panoramas. It is a notable viewpoint with significant elevation.
- Another must-see spot is Roubaix Velodrome, a man-made monument. This open cycle track has a long history as the destination of the Paris-Roubaix race, where bicycle history was written.
- Visitors also love Espierres Canal, a river that lies between the French border and the Scheldt. It is known for its new cycle path and scenic surroundings, making it ideal for easy walks near Leers.
- Leers is known for its historical sites, canals, and cycling routes. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, including family friendly attractions Leers and opportunities for circular walks Leers.
- The attractions around Leers are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 800 upvotes and over 150 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 4, 2026
Mont-Saint-Aubert
Highlight • Summit
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Roubaix Velodrome
Highlight • Monument
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Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix
Highlight • Monument
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Espierres Canal
Highlight (Segment) • River
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Our Lady of the Tonte Chapel
Highlight • Religious Site
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Tips from the Community
As is the case with many chapels, pieces of cloth are tied to the bars of the door (see, for example, the Passjekapel on the Catsberg in Godewaerdsvelde in French Flanders). This refers to a devotion that is actually based on a Germanic tradition: believers come to the chapel hoping for (or in gratitude for) protection and healing from illnesses that cause fever. They leave behind a piece of cloth (bandage, sock, handkerchief, etc.), worn by the sick person.
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The Tonte Chapel is a magnificent chapel, largely due to its location: at the highest point in Kooigem, with a number of nearly upright poplars as neighbors. It can therefore be seen from afar. The combination of white paint on the walls and blue woodwork gives the chapel an extra special character. The history of the chapel, which has been a protected monument since 2004, dates back to the first half of the 18th century. The first, smaller chapel was probably built in 1729 but destroyed in 1914, not by war, but by fire following a lightning strike. The current chapel dates from after the First World War. The small chapel was enlarged in 1929 by the residents of the nearby farm. The Tonte Chapel is a popular place of worship, especially in May. Source: Heritage Inventory
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The Roubaix Canal, or the Espierres Canal, as it's called in French or Belgian, forms part of the link between the Deûle River in France and the Scheldt River in Belgium. In 1843, the two canals were connected between Leers, France, and Leers-Nord, Belgium. Despite damage sustained during the two world wars, the canal was the pinnacle of the region's textile industry for over a hundred years, transporting coal from Belgium to numerous French factories. In Leers-Nord, Belgium, the workers who pulled the coal-laden barges were called "satcheux" (sailors). Next to the lock keeper's house, a stone's throw from France, the crossing point between France and Belgium, a customs guardhouse was built. Customs officers were present to inspect the numerous goods transported by barge. After the decline of the textile industry in the 1970s and 1980s, the canal gradually lost its usefulness and was closed to shipping in 1983. In the early 2000s, the canal was the subject of a cross-border rehabilitation project to allow tourist boats to pass through again. As part of the Interreg Blue Links project, a collaboration between France, Flanders, and Wallonia, it was flooded again. The final works were completed in 2011, and navigation reopened. Since the early 20th century, the Roubaix/Espierres Canal has been a place of conviviality, walking, and fishing for cross-border residents and commuters. Consequently, strong public opposition has arisen to the plan to convert the canal into a motorway. Source: www.caue-nord.com
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For a cycling tourist, the arrival at the Roubaix velodrome is also a great moment. Even after dozens of times!
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For the legend this race is, and how normal in fact the velodrome is...
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Beautiful panorama and quite a bit of elevation. 😅 😉
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Mont-Saint-Aubert is the name of the small town and the hill on which it is located. Two roads lead to the summit, but there is a whole network of cool trails for running in the great outdoors.
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A very famous part of the Paris/Roubaix cycling race
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there family-friendly attractions around Leers?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix offers a unique experience on a cycle path. The Roubaix Velodrome is a fascinating historical site for sports enthusiasts of all ages. Additionally, the Espierres Canal provides scenic and easy paths for family walks or bike rides.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near Leers?
The area around Leers is excellent for cycling and running. You can explore various routes, including easy cycling loops like the 'Grimonpont Drawbridge in Leers – La Maison du Canal loop' or more challenging ones like the 'Greenway Hem-Anstaing – As the water flows loop'. For runners, there are moderate trails such as the 'La Maison du Canal – Leers-Nord Lock loop'. You can find more details and routes on the Cycling around Leers guide and the Running Trails around Leers guide.
Where can I find easy walking or cycling paths near Leers?
The Espierres Canal is ideal for easy walks and cycling, featuring a new cycle path and beautiful surroundings. The Canal de Roubaix, which is the French extension of the Espierres Canal, also offers paved sections in Belgium and gravel paths in France, perfect for leisurely rides or strolls.
Are there any challenging climbs or hikes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Mont-Saint-Aubert offers a challenging climb to its village. It's known for its significant elevation and is a popular spot for cyclists and hikers looking for a more strenuous activity, rewarding visitors with beautiful panoramas.
What historical sites can I visit around Leers?
Leers and its surroundings boast several historical sites. The Roubaix Velodrome is a landmark where cycling history was made, especially as the finish line of the Paris-Roubaix race. The Espierres Canal also has a rich history, originally built to connect waterways for trade. Additionally, the Our Lady of the Tonte Chapel is a protected monument with a fascinating past as a pilgrimage site.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots to enjoy the landscape?
Absolutely. Mont-Saint-Aubert is a prominent summit offering beautiful panoramas of the surrounding region. The Our Lady of the Tonte Chapel is also situated at the highest point in Kooigem, providing scenic views.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Leers?
Visitors frequently praise the scenic beauty and the opportunities for outdoor activities. The challenging climb and beautiful panoramas of Mont-Saint-Aubert are highly appreciated. Cyclists love the historical significance of the Roubaix Velodrome and the new cycle paths along the Espierres Canal. The unique border crossing experience on the Canal de Roubaix is also a popular highlight.
Can I find circular walks around Leers?
Yes, the area around Leers is well-suited for circular walks, especially along the canal systems. The Espierres Canal and Canal de Roubaix offer numerous possibilities for creating scenic loops, combining natural beauty with historical routes. Many of the cycling and running routes listed in the nearby guides are also circular.
Are there any unique or less-known spots worth exploring?
Beyond the main highlights, the Our Lady of the Tonte Chapel offers a unique blend of history, local tradition, and a peaceful setting with panoramic views. It's a protected monument with a fascinating story of pilgrimage and local customs, making it a charming discovery.
What is the best time of year to visit Leers for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for outdoor activities around Leers, offering pleasant weather for cycling, walking, and exploring historical sites. The new cycle paths along the canals are particularly enjoyable during these seasons. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though temperatures will be cooler.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting near Leers?
While not explicitly a wildlife sanctuary, the natural areas along the Espierres Canal and Canal de Roubaix, with their scenic surroundings and waterways, provide opportunities to observe local birdlife and other small animals in their natural habitat, especially during quieter times of the day.
Are there any attractions that are particularly significant for cycling enthusiasts?
Absolutely. The Roubaix Velodrome is a must-visit for any cycling enthusiast, being the historic finish line of the Paris-Roubaix race. The canals, including the Espierres Canal and Canal de Roubaix, are also highly significant, offering extensive cycle paths that are part of the Euro Velo Route 5.
Most popular attractions around Leers
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