Lakes around Tournai offer diverse aquatic environments in the Wallonia region of Belgium. The area features a mix of artificial lakes, former quarries, and cut-off river arms. These bodies of water serve various purposes, from water regulation to recreation and nature conservation. Visitors can find opportunities for water sports, nature observation, and walking trails.
Last updated: August 10, 2026
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The Taintignies-Willemau water buffer basin ("Zone d'Immersion Temporaire" or "ZIT") was created in the middle of agricultural land to capture excess water from the fields, preventing it from reaching residential areas and causing flooding. The entire area is designed as a beautiful experience zone. While the boardwalks invite you to cross the water, that's clearly not the intention: a very clear prohibition sign is posted (at least during my visit, on frosty days). The dikes and grasslands are managed by sheep. In the long term, this area will undoubtedly develop into a fascinating habitat for (water) birds.
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The Péronnes-Antoing marina, located on the Grand Large of Péronnes in Wallonia, is an unmissable nautical site. This vast 45 hectare body of water, developed in the 1960s, serves to regulate the level between the canal and the Scheldt. The port offers 157 mooring rings for boats, as well as modern facilities such as a harbor master's office and a Club House. It is also a popular location for water sports and leisure activities.
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just across the bicycle bridge 'the shell' land art
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The Avelgem Scheldemeersen is now a combination of grassland, cultivated land and a diked Scheldt, but that used to be different. The Scheldt lakes were probably covered with shrubs after the last ice age. The Scheldt had not yet been diked, which meant that the valley regularly flooded. This created a lake biotope, especially in winter. Sand was piled up on the southern edge of the valley, on which the village centers of Escanaffles and Ruien later emerged. The northern edge, where Avelgem is located, was created after clay was deposited in curved soils or "meersen". The northern and southern valley edges in the Avelgem Scheldemeersen are almost the only places within the valley where habitation is present. When the Scheldt was straightened for the last time last century, several 'coupures' or cut-off arms were created with stagnant or weakly flowing water. The 'Coupure Deweer' is a wonderful example of this. In the still water of the meander, fish, plants and other organisms maintain a delicate balance. You will also find the Nature House (NEC) of Natuurpunt Avelgem there.
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Several lakes around Tournai offer family-friendly activities. The Péronnes-Antoing Marina (Grand Large) is excellent for family outings and picnics, with green spaces and a cycling path. The Water buffer basin of Taintignies-Willemau is designed as an experience zone with boardwalks (though not for crossing the water) and managed by sheep, offering a unique natural setting. The Coupure Deweer also provides a tranquil setting for nature observation.
The Grand Large de Péronnes is a popular spot for nautical activities, especially for members of affiliated clubs like ADEPS, Péronnes Yacht Club, and Kayak. While further afield, the Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure offer a vast array of water sports including kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, paddleboarding, water skiing, jet skiing, motorboating, pedal boats, swimming, and diving. You can find more information about the Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure on Visit Wallonia.
Yes, the Grand Large de Péronnes features a cycling path that allows visitors to circle the lake, covering about 15 km, with another 20 km loop connecting to Tournai. For more extensive options, you can explore various routes in the region. For hiking, check out the City hikes around Tournai guide. If you prefer cycling, the Road Cycling Routes around Tournai guide and Gravel biking around Tournai guide offer many options, including routes that pass by the Grand Large de Péronnes.
The Coupure Deweer is a serene lake biotope where fish, plants, and other organisms thrive in a delicate ecological balance. It's an excellent spot for nature observation, and the Nature House (NEC) of Natuurpunt Avelgem is nearby. The Water buffer basin of Taintignies-Willemau is also developing into a fascinating habitat for water birds.
For adventure seekers, the Carrière de l'Orient (Quarry of the Orient) near Tournai offers the longest zipline in Belgium, gliding over the lake. It's part of the Ecopark Adventure, which also includes a tree-climbing course, providing an adrenaline rush and impressive views.
Yes, the Etang du Saule - Chez Martin is primarily dedicated to trout fishing in a green, tree-planted, and secure area. It offers a calm and natural environment, perfect for fishing enthusiasts. You can find more details on Visit Wallonia.
The lakes around Tournai can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful natural colors. Summer is ideal for water sports and picnics. Even in winter, the landscapes can be serene for quiet walks, especially around the Coupure Deweer.
Many natural areas around the lakes are generally dog-friendly, especially for walks on trails. However, specific rules regarding leashes and access to certain areas (like swimming zones or nature reserves) may apply. Always look for local signage. The Grand Large de Péronnes and Coupure Deweer are popular for walks with dogs, provided they are kept under control.
The Péronnes-Antoing Marina (Grand Large) has modern facilities, including a Club House, which may offer refreshments. The surrounding areas of the lakes often have local establishments. For the Grand Large, you can find more information on Visit Wapi.
While some lakes like the Grand Large de Péronnes are relatively close to Tournai and might be accessible via local bus routes or a short taxi ride, many of the more natural or specialized lake areas are best reached by car. Public transport options can be limited for sites like Coupure Deweer or the Etang du Saule - Chez Martin. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific destinations.


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