Top 4 Lakes around L'Eau d'Heure
Best lakes around L'Eau d'Heure are located in Wallonia, Belgium, forming the country's largest lake complex. This domain spans 600 hectares of water and 1,200 hectares of surrounding forests and meadows across Hainaut and Namur. Formed in the 1970s for water regulation, the L'Eau d'Heure lakes now serve as a destination offering diverse activities. The complex features five artificial lakes, providing various natural landscapes and recreational opportunities.
Best lakes around L'Eau d'Heure
- The most popular lakes is Lake Viewpoint, a viewpoint that offers views of jet skis and fish in the water. From this location, visitors can observe water sports activities on the lake.
- Another must-see spot is Lac du Ry-Jaune, a lake known as the fourth largest of the five reservoirs. It provides a quieter setting within the larger domain, suitable for tranquility and fishing.
- Visitors also love Water sports center, a facility where visitors can engage in water skiing, flyboarding, and other water sports. A restaurant is also available at this location.
- L'Eau d'Heure is known for its large lakes like Lac de la Plate Taille, medium-sized family-oriented lakes such as Lac de Falemprise, and smaller lakes dedicated to towed water sports like Lac de Féronval. The variety of lakes offers options for water sports, relaxation, and fishing.
- The lakes around L'Eau d'Heure are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 115 upvotes and 17 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Lake Viewpoint
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Lac du Ry-Jaune
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Water sports center
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Féronval Dam
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The dam is located near the N907, where various hiking and cycling routes pass. The surroundings are quiet, green, and very popular with recreational users. Anglers like to come here because fishing from a boat on Lac de Féronval is permitted, which is not possible on all lakes in the area.
Several beautiful walks start around the dam. A popular route is the Balade du Grand Cerf, an accessible tour of about eight kilometers that starts at the Féronval pre-dam. The walk leads through forests and open fields and regularly offers beautiful views of the Lac de l’Eau d’Heure. There are picnic spots and ample parking along the way, making it an ideal outing for families or leisurely walkers.
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Lac de Falemprise
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The origin of the dam lies in the need to regulate water flows in the region. In a landscape characterized by calcareous soils, hilly relief, and fast-reacting watercourses, floods and seasonal water fluctuations were a recurring phenomenon. The construction of weirs and small dams like the one at Féronval therefore served to stabilize water levels, distribute water, and in some cases also support energy or irrigation.
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The Féronval dam is part of the impressive Les Lacs de l’Eau d’Heure lake complex, the largest artificial lake area in Belgium. These dams and reservoirs were built in the 1970s to improve water quality in the region, support the flow of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, and make the Charleroi–Brussels Canal suitable for larger inland vessels. The Lac de Féronval, formed by the dam, is one of the smaller but important links within this hydrological system. The dam is located near the N907, where various hiking and cycling routes pass. The surroundings are quiet, green, and very popular with recreational users. Anglers like to come here because fishing from a boat on Lac de Féronval is permitted, which is not possible on all lakes in the area. Several beautiful walks start around the dam. A popular route is the Balade du Grand Cerf, an accessible tour of about eight kilometers that starts at the Féronval pre-dam. The walk leads through forests and open fields and regularly offers beautiful views of the Lac de l’Eau d’Heure. There are picnic spots and ample parking along the way, making it an ideal outing for families or leisurely walkers. Also
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Lake Ry-Jaune is the fourth largest lake in terms of surface area of the five reservoirs. It is located just behind the Eau d’Heure, Plate-Taille and Falinfluence lakes. And just in front of Féronval.
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From here you can see the jet skis doing their magic on the water. If they see you photographing, they might come and put on a show.
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On a hike around the lake, you will come across countless beautiful vantage points like this one. The forests and the water provide many surprising perspectives and views.
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At Lac de l'Eau d'Heure you can not only go water skiing, but also try the so-called "flyboards" and other water sports. There is also a restaurant here.
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From this point you can see the jet skis at work and the fish swimming in the water.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of activities are available at the L'Eau d'Heure lakes?
The L'Eau d'Heure lakes offer a wide range of activities. You can enjoy various water sports such as kayaking, diving, windsurfing, sailing, jet skiing, and even unique experiences like the "Crocodile Rouge" amphibious bus tour on Lac de la Plate Taille. For towed water sports like wakeboarding, Lac de Féronval is the premier destination. On land, there are extensive trails for hiking and cycling, tree-top challenges, and abseiling at Natura Parc. You can also explore nearby routes for cycling and hiking, such as those found in the Cycling around L'Eau d'Heure or Easy hikes around L'Eau d'Heure guides.
Which lakes are best for families with children?
Many areas around the L'Eau d'Heure lakes are family-friendly. Lac de la Plate Taille offers a sandy beach and the unique "Crocodile Rouge" amphibious bus. Lac de Falemprise is known for its family-oriented leisure offerings, including playgrounds and mini-golf, and is currently undergoing renovations with a new leisure station planned for 2027. The Water sports center also provides activities suitable for various ages.
Are there good hiking trails around the L'Eau d'Heure lakes?
Yes, the L'Eau d'Heure lakes boast an extensive network of trails, perfect for hiking. The area offers 70 kilometers of shoreline and diverse landscapes to explore. For easy walks, you can find routes like the "Wooden Shelter and Picnic Area – Lake Eau d'Heure loop" or the "View of the Dam – Eau d'Heure Lake loop." More options are available in the Easy hikes around L'Eau d'Heure guide.
Where can I find the best viewpoints of the lakes?
For panoramic views, visit the Barrage de la Plate Taille at Lac de la Plate Taille, which features a 107-meter high viewing tower. There are also numerous spots around the lakes offering stunning vistas, such as the Beautiful viewpoint over the water, which is just one of many scenic locations along the banks.
Can I go cycling around the L'Eau d'Heure lakes?
Absolutely. The L'Eau d'Heure lakes are very popular for cycling, with an extensive network of trails. Lac de l'Eau d'Heure, in particular, serves as a starting point for numerous RAVeL cycling routes, including a 24 km loop around the lake. You can find various routes, from easy to difficult, in guides like Cycling around L'Eau d'Heure and Road Cycling Routes around L'Eau d'Heure.
Which lake is the largest in the complex?
Lac de la Plate Taille is the largest single lake in Belgium, measuring 374 hectares with a depth of 52 meters. It is a central hub for many activities and home to Belgium's largest dam.
Is there a quieter lake for relaxation or fishing?
Yes, Lac du Ry-Jaune (also known as Ri Jaune) provides a quieter setting within the larger domain. It is known as the fourth largest of the five reservoirs and is suitable for those seeking tranquility or opportunities for fishing.
What is the best time of year to visit the L'Eau d'Heure lakes?
The L'Eau d'Heure lakes are a year-round destination, but the best time depends on your preferred activities. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports, cycling, and hiking, with warmer weather and full operational services. The autumn months offer beautiful foliage for scenic walks, while winter can provide a quieter, more serene experience, though some facilities may have reduced hours.
Are there facilities for water skiing or wakeboarding?
Yes, the L'Eau d'Heure lakes are well-equipped for water sports. Lac de l'Eau d'Heure has a dedicated water sports center where you can engage in water skiing, flyboarding, and other activities. Lac de Féronval specifically houses the Spin Leisure Park, specializing in towed water sports like wakeboarding, towed buoys, and skimboarding.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see?
The L'Eau d'Heure lakes complex is characterized by its vast artificial lakes, surrounded by 1,200 hectares of forests and meadows. You'll find diverse landscapes, including sandy beaches, wooded areas, and open grasslands. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity, contributing to its overall natural charm.
Are there places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Yes, the L'Eau d'Heure lakes area offers various accommodations and restaurants to enhance your visit. For example, the Water sports center at Lac de l'Eau d'Heure includes a restaurant. Throughout the complex, you'll find options for dining and lodging to suit different preferences.
What makes Lac de l'Eau d'Heure unique among the five lakes?
Lac de l'Eau d'Heure serves as the central lake of the complex and is particularly favored by sports enthusiasts. It is a key starting point for numerous RAVeL cycling routes, including an extensive 24 km loop, and frequently hosts nautical competitions. It's an excellent spot for water skiing, jet skiing, sailing, kayaking, and diving, with varied terrain perfect for hiking and cycling.
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