Attractions and Places To See around Hestrud - Top 20

Hestrud and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the historic Église Saint Romain d'Hestrud, dating back to the 13th century, known for its early Gothic architecture and 16th-century stained-glass window. Another significant site is L'abreuvoir de l'empereur, commemorating Napoleon's passage in 1815. The Church of Liessies, part of a former 8th-century abbey, also offers a glimpse into the region's past with its defensive towers and ancient wooden statues. Additionally, the Solre-le-Château Church is notable for its distinctive bulbous and tilted tower.

Yes, Hestrud is home to the Musée de la Douane (Customs Museum). Established in 1996, this museum recounts the history of customs and the Franco-Belgian border, which was significant to the village until 1989. It features a reconstructed customs office and various objects illustrating 300 years of customs life in the region.

Nature lovers will appreciate the La Vallée de la Thure, a picturesque 6-kilometer stretch from Hestrud to Cousolre, perfect for scenic drives or walks alongside the rapidly flowing river. The Lake Val-Joly is a large artificial lake offering a 16-kilometer route around its banks, allowing you to discover meadows and the Abbé-Val-Joly national forest. While further afield, the Forest of Mormal, about 29 km away, is the largest forest in the region with hundreds of kilometers of trails.

The region offers excellent cycling opportunities, particularly along the Voie verte de l'Avesnois. This 'green way' provides a secure and scenic route for cyclists, stretching over 100 kilometers through diverse landscapes of forests, meadows, and charming villages in the Avesnois region. For more specific routes, you can explore various road cycling options, such as the 'Avesnois Greenway loop from Hestrud', which is a moderate 55 km ride. Find more routes on the Road Cycling Routes around Hestrud guide.

Yes, there are several hiking trails around Hestrud suitable for various skill levels. You can find easy routes like the 'Sivry Church – Village Church loop from Sivry' (7.1 km) or moderate options such as the 'Hestrud Church loop from Hestrud' (11.3 km). These trails allow you to explore the local landscapes and villages. For a comprehensive list of trails, refer to the Hiking around Hestrud guide.

The Val Joly Lake and its accommodations offer a wide range of relaxation and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy walks around the lake, horseback riding, mini golf, simple or electric pedal boat rentals, and bike rides. There's also a swimming pool available, making it a great spot for a holiday or a day out.

Absolutely. The Val Joly Lake and its accommodations are particularly family-friendly, offering activities like mini golf, pedal boating, and a swimming pool. The Voie verte de l'Avesnois is also suitable for family bike rides, providing a safe and scenic environment away from traffic.

The La Vallée de la Thure, stretching from Hestrud to Cousolre, is best experienced by driving or walking alongside the river. This 6-kilometer route winds through an enclosed valley with lush greenery and schistic escarpments, offering one of the most picturesque routes in the region. You'll encounter delightful undergrowth, meadows, and a small pond along the way.

Yes, the area around Hestrud provides several mountain biking trails. Options range from easy to moderate, such as the 'Étang de la Fédération loop from Cousolre' (19.4 km, easy) or the 'Côte du Canaris – Old Dam of the Roman Bridge loop from Cousolre' (41.2 km, moderate). These trails allow you to explore the diverse landscapes of the region. More details can be found in the MTB Trails around Hestrud guide.

The Church of Liessies is unique due to its historical significance and architectural features. Built in the 16th century at the gates of an 8th-century abbey, it served as both a shelter and protection. It features two defensive towers on its facade and contains numerous remarkable wooden statues from the 16th to 18th centuries, which are protected as historical monuments. It also houses four 18th-century paintings representing the cardinal virtues.

While not directly in Hestrud, nearby towns host local markets on various days, offering a glimpse into local life and produce. You can find markets in Cousolre on Wednesdays, Jeumont on Thursdays, and Bavay on Fridays.

L'abreuvoir de l'empereur (The Emperor's Drinking Trough) marks a historical moment when Napoleon passed through Hestrud on June 14, 1815, on his way to Waterloo. A monument and a stele commemorate the spot where Napoleon's horse drank from the Thure river and where he famously interacted with a young village boy.