Lakes around Lecelles are found in a region of Hauts-de-France, characterized by a landscape shaped by both natural processes and historical human activity. The area features a mix of natural and artificial water bodies, many of which are mining subsidence lakes or man-made basins for water management. These lakes often serve multiple functions, from ecological reserves to water regulation and recreational areas, providing diverse environments for outdoor activities.
Last updated: June 21, 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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As you walk through the Raismes-Saint-Amand-Wallers Forest, you will come across many small, unnamed ponds that reflect the trees and the sky in winter and are covered in algae in summer.
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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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Very mobile with magnificent view of the gorial pond
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Not a good road surface....concrete slabs that sometimes stick out just a few centimeters above each other! Not ideal for racing bike
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The Goriaux pond (former pig pond as its dialect name indicates) is a mining subsidence pond in the North, in France, and a national biological reserve since 1982. A very significant mining subsidence created three ponds in 1916, which ended up joining around 1930 to form a single pond, located at the foot of slag heap no. 171, Mare à Goriaux, partly recolonized by vegetation. The site of the body of water and the slag heap of the pond in Goriaux is part of the Raismes-Saint-Amand-Wallers national forest.
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Nice spot, possibility to land, soak your feet in the water. Not far from the Arenberg gap. Accessible slag heap along the Mate in Goriaux which gives a view from above. Be careful, very narrow and sloping path if you want to go along the pond on the slag side.
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The region around Lecelles features a mix of natural and artificial water bodies. You'll find significant mining subsidence lakes, like Goriaux Pond, which formed from land collapse due to historical mining. There are also man-made basins for water management, such as the Water buffer basin (temporary immersion zone) of Taintignies-Willemau, and larger facilities like Péronnes-Antoing Marina (Grand Large).
Yes, several lakes and their surrounding areas are suitable for families. Goriaux Pond and the Water buffer basin (temporary immersion zone) of Taintignies-Willemau are noted as family-friendly. The Étang de Chabaud-Latour, while not directly in Lecelles, offers easy hikes and walks suitable for all fitness levels and families, along with picnic tables and parking.
The lakes and surrounding areas offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on over 30 km of paths, especially around the Étang de Chabaud-Latour. For more structured routes, explore the hiking trails around Lecelles, or try road cycling and MTB trails in the wider region.
Yes, fishing is a popular activity. The Étang de Chabaud-Latour is a well-known fishing spot, covering over 100 hectares with 2.5 km of authorized fishing banks. It's home to various fish species, including bream, carp, roach, perch, pike, zander, and catfish.
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and observing migratory birds. Summer is ideal for water sports at locations like Péronnes-Antoing Marina or the nautical base at Étang de Chabaud-Latour. Even in winter, the Peaceful little pond in Raismes-Saint-Amand-Wallers Forest offers serene views as the ponds reflect the trees and sky.
Yes, many areas around the lakes feature accessible paths. The Étang de Chabaud-Latour, for instance, has easy hikes and walks suitable for various fitness levels. The Water buffer basin (temporary immersion zone) of Taintignies-Willemau also offers a designed experience zone with dikes and grasslands for walking, though boardwalks over water may have restrictions.
The lakes are rich in biodiversity, especially for birds. The Étang de Chabaud-Latour is a 'hot spot' for ornithologists, with around 230 bird species observed, including dabbling ducks, Golden Oriole, Common Nightingale, Bluethroat, and Black-crowned Night Heron. The reed beds and wetlands provide crucial habitats. Goriaux Pond is also a national biological reserve.
The region has a strong historical connection to mining. The Étang de Chabaud-Latour is a mining subsidence lake, and the site includes a headframe classified as a Historic Monument, blending natural beauty with industrial heritage. Goriaux Pond is also a mining subsidence pond located at the foot of slag heap no. 171.
For water sports, Péronnes-Antoing Marina (Grand Large) is an unmissable nautical site offering modern facilities. Additionally, a nautical base on the southeast banks of the Étang de Chabaud-Latour provides opportunities for sailing, paddleboarding, canoeing-kayaking, and pedal boating.
The Étang de Chabaud-Latour area is well-equipped with amenities, including picnic tables and parking, making it convenient for visitors. While specific cafes directly at the lake shores are not highlighted, the nearby towns offer dining options.
The Étang de Chabaud-Latour is special due to its origins as a mining subsidence lake, its exceptional biodiversity (especially for birds), and its inscription on the UNESCO World Heritage list as part of the Scarpe-Escaut Regional Natural Park. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and diverse recreational activities, from birdwatching to water sports and extensive hiking paths. You can learn more about its rich features on Wikipedia or Tourisme en Hauts-de-France.


Still not found your perfect lake around Lecelles? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.