Top 20 Natural Monuments in Hainaut
Natural monuments in Hainaut offer a diverse landscape for exploration, characterized by its varied terrain. The region features hills, extensive forests, and significant wetlands, providing a range of natural environments. These natural elements contribute to the distinct character of the Hainaut landscape, making it a notable area for outdoor activities. The area's geological features and natural reserves are points of interest for visitors.
Best natural monuments in Hainaut
- The most popular natural monument is Mont-Saint-Aubert, a summit that offers panoramic views. This location is known for its challenging climbs and open roads suitable for cycling.
- Another must-see spot is Le Caillou-qui-Bique, a natural monument featuring a large rock formation. This 20 to 25 meter high rock is composed of fragments of several natural elements and is situated on the edge of a path in the forest of Angre.
- Visitors also love Kluisberg - Mont de l'Enclus, a man-made monument and summit. This hill, part of the Flemish Ardennes, is covered by the Kluisbos forest and offers valuable nature and views.
- Hainaut is known for its diverse natural monuments, including summits, rock formations, and extensive wetlands. Visitors can explore a variety of natural landscapes, from forests and hills to unique geological features and nature reserves.
- The natural monuments in Hainaut are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 800 upvotes and over 150 photos shared across various highlights.
Last updated: May 13, 2026
Mont-Saint-Aubert
Highlight • Summit
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Livierenbos
Highlight • Forest
The Livierenbos is partly private domain, partly public domain forest. You can walk on the central forest avenue. Various signposted hiking trails (Tweebossenpad, Taalgrenswandelroute T6), the hiking junction networks 'Pays des Collines' / 'Ge witness hills Flemish Ardennes' and the Livierenbos route pass through the area.
nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Livierenbos
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Kluisberg - Mont de l'Enclus
Highlight • Monument
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Le Caillou-qui-Bique
Highlight • Natural Monument
A little step back in time...
Saint-Ghislain completes the construction of its abbey.
The devil decides that he will take advantage of the inauguration day to destroy the abbey and its occupants, by throwing an enormous stone found in the Pyrenees at the community.
An angel warns Saint-Ghislain of the imminent danger weighing on the abbey.
He gathers as many pairs of worn shoes as possible, which he slips into a huge bag and takes to the road to meet the evil one.
Coming across a poor fellow in rags with holes in his shoes at this place, the devil, quite exhausted by the heavy load, questions him: “Is the abbey of Saint-Ghislain still far away? ".
- “I’m coming from there, if it’s far!” » replies the old man while emptying his bag, filled with threadbare shoes, in front of the devil.
Discouraged and disappointed, Satan preferred to give up, dropping his heavy stone on the ground and walking away blaspheming, fooled by the subterfuge.
An hour and a half.
N.B.: some historians say that this is the legend of Saint Remacle, during the construction of Stavelot Abbey.
You are therefore free to substitute Remacle for Saint-Ghislain since this substitution does not modify the spirit of the story.
In both cases, the devil is defeated.
Cfr de informatiesteen ter hoogte van Le Chalet de Garde.
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Mer de Sable State Reserve
Highlight • Natural
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Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve
Highlight • Natural Monument
Source: visitwapi.be/nl/moeras-van-harchies
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Hyon Waterfall and Ponds
Highlight • Waterfall
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Hanging gardens
Highlight • Historical Site
Thuin Hanging Gardens
Thuin Hanging Gardens are world famous! The small town of Thuin is located southwest of Charleroi and still belongs to Wallonia. The town is known for the Belfry, the medieval alleys but especially the Hanging Gardens. This is truly unique in Belgium and is therefore on the list of exceptional heritage! The alleys around the Hanging Gardens are also recognized as an exceptional heritage of Wallonia.
From the medieval center you come to the edge of the town and this is where the Hanging Gardens begin. The gardens can be seen even better if you drive in from the south. Thuin is located on a high hill and on the foothills of the hill are the gardens. The gardens are only found on the southern slope. The gardens and terraces were created during the construction of the city. They are part of the fortifications of the city. Very special is that the terraces have a microclimate. Due to the abundance of sunlight, special fauna and flora grows for the region.
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The bubbling spring of Stambruges and its mysteries.
Highlight • Natural Monument
The legend of the sunken coach
the boiling fountain of Stambruges hides the legend of the sunken coach. This unusual phenomenon has fueled a tragic legend linked to the place. In fact, it is said that in the past, one of the princes of the house of Ligne, to which Beloeil castle belongs, not far from here, was nicknamed the great devil. A nickname due to his reputation as an unrepentant gallant. He invited a young lady to spend a romantic evening on Good Friday. The unfortunate woman never returned to her home ... Coach, horses, coachman and young girl disappeared body and well in the waters of the spring. Nobody knew that she was the cause of the accident… divine punishment or jealousy… Some murmured that the mad coachman in love with his mistress could not bear that she gave herself thus to this prince so depraved… He then rushed all his crew in the dark waters, reputed to engulf forever objects and living beings trapped in the sands that sleep at the bottom ... This is how since midnight, every Good Friday, it is said that the coach reappears for a short time. We then hear the driver cracking his whip ... Before he dives again until the following year ...
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Tips from the Community
Attention change of regulation, a part of the reserve is forbidden to bicycles. I saw it this morning.
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Superb forest path, in relatively good condition and with a gentle slope. Be careful, it can be quite slippery when it's wet.
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Away from the hustle and bustle. Enjoy the mystical Livierenbos. The mystical Livierenbos is a large old forest with open spaces located on the border of the Flemish Ardennes and Pays des Collines. In this large forest, too, the bluebell is the main character every year in April. Historical significance: the name of the forest – in French Bois de la Louvière – is Romanesque in origin and refers to the presence of wolves. Wolves lived in the forest until the 17th century, which regularly led to fierce hunts. With the knowledge of the past (werewolves) and the possible appearance of flying witches, it is doubly enjoyable and we stroll dreamily along blue-purple carpets through the present.
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The mystical Livierenbos is a large old forest with open spaces located on the border of the Flemish Ardennes and Pays des Collines. In this large forest, too, the bluebell is the main character every year in April. Historical significance: the name of the forest – in French Bois de la Louvière – is Romanesque in origin and refers to the presence of wolves. Wolves lived in the forest until the 17th century, which regularly led to fierce hunts. With the knowledge of the past (werewolves) and the possible appearance of flying witches, it is doubly enjoyable and we stroll dreamily along blue-purple carpets through the present.
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Very nice to have a drink on a terrace and recover from the climb
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Beautiful panorama and quite a bit of elevation. 😅 😉
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Mont de l'Enclus or Kluisberg is a hill located in the Flemish Ardennes, on the border of Flanders and Wallonia, which rises to 141 meters. A popular destination for cycling, tourism and recreation, the hill has a built-in tower. Two thirds of the area is in Kluisbergen. The Kluisbos stands out at the top of the Kluisberg! This 141 meter high mountain is one of the jewels of the Flemish Ardennes. Precious nature, magnificent views, sights and leisure activities for little nature lovers make it an ideal destination for young and old.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I explore in Hainaut?
Hainaut offers a diverse landscape, including hills, extensive forests, and significant wetlands. You can discover unique geological formations like Le Caillou-qui-Bique, a remarkable rock formation, or enjoy the tranquility of wetlands such as the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in Hainaut?
Yes, several natural monuments in Hainaut are suitable for families. The Kluisberg - Mont de l'Enclus offers valuable nature and views, while the Mer de Sable State Reserve provides a great outdoor experience. The Witches’ Trail – Sculpture Route in the Parc naturel du Pays des Collines is also a fun option for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near Hainaut's natural monuments?
Hainaut is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and hiking. For cycling, explore routes like the RAVeL Eau d'Heure Lakes Tour. Mountain bikers can tackle challenging trails such as the Muziekbos – Keunaarde Gravel Path loop. Hikers can enjoy paths like The strange trail in the Parc naturel du Pays des Collines. Find more details on these activities in the Cycling in Hainaut, MTB Trails in Hainaut, and Hiking in Hainaut guides.
Are there any natural monuments with historical significance in Hainaut?
Yes, some natural monuments are intertwined with local history and legends. Le Caillou-qui-Bique, for instance, is steeped in local folklore about its formation. Additionally, the Hanging gardens in Thuin, while man-made, are recognized as exceptional heritage and offer unique microclimates.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Hainaut?
Visitors frequently praise the panoramic views, challenging climbs for cyclists, and the peaceful atmosphere. Many appreciate the diverse landscapes, from the forests of Kluisberg - Mont de l'Enclus to the unique rock formations. The region's natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation are highly valued.
Are there any natural monuments in Hainaut that are wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve is noted for its wheelchair accessibility, allowing visitors to enjoy the wetlands and observe local wildlife.
Can I find waterfalls or significant water features among Hainaut's natural monuments?
Yes, you can visit the Hyon Waterfall and Ponds, which offers a picturesque setting with water features. The region's wetlands, like the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul, also provide significant natural water environments.
Are there any unique or 'hidden' natural gems in Hainaut?
Beyond the well-known spots, you might enjoy discovering the bubbling spring of Stambruges and its mysteries, which offers a unique natural phenomenon. Another interesting site is The Nail Tree of Stambruges, a natural monument with local traditions.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Hainaut's natural monuments?
The diverse natural environments in Hainaut, particularly the extensive wetlands and forests, support various wildlife. The Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve is especially renowned as an ornithological site, home to numerous bird species, some rare or endangered. Bringing binoculars is recommended for birdwatching.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments in Hainaut?
Hainaut's natural monuments can be enjoyed throughout the year, with each season offering a different experience. Spring and autumn provide pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer days outdoors, while winter can offer serene, snow-dusted landscapes, particularly in forested areas like the Kluisbos.
Are there any challenging climbs or viewpoints among the natural monuments?
Absolutely. Mont-Saint-Aubert is known for its challenging climbs and offers beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding area. Similarly, the Kluisberg - Mont de l'Enclus provides excellent views from its summit, which is part of the Flemish Ardennes.
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