Best attractions and places to see around Menen, a city in the Belgian province of West Flanders, blend historical significance with local character. Situated on the border with France, with the Leie river forming part of this boundary, the region offers diverse points of interest. Visitors can explore a mix of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. The broader Flanders region provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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The Roubaix Canal, or the Espierres Canal, as it's called in French or Belgian, forms part of the link between the Deûle River in France and the Scheldt River in Belgium. In 1843, the two canals were connected between Leers, France, and Leers-Nord, Belgium. Despite damage sustained during the two world wars, the canal was the pinnacle of the region's textile industry for over a hundred years, transporting coal from Belgium to numerous French factories. In Leers-Nord, Belgium, the workers who pulled the coal-laden barges were called "satcheux" (sailors). Next to the lock keeper's house, a stone's throw from France, the crossing point between France and Belgium, a customs guardhouse was built. Customs officers were present to inspect the numerous goods transported by barge. After the decline of the textile industry in the 1970s and 1980s, the canal gradually lost its usefulness and was closed to shipping in 1983. In the early 2000s, the canal was the subject of a cross-border rehabilitation project to allow tourist boats to pass through again. As part of the Interreg Blue Links project, a collaboration between France, Flanders, and Wallonia, it was flooded again. The final works were completed in 2011, and navigation reopened. Since the early 20th century, the Roubaix/Espierres Canal has been a place of conviviality, walking, and fishing for cross-border residents and commuters. Consequently, strong public opposition has arisen to the plan to convert the canal into a motorway. Source: www.caue-nord.com
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For a cycling tourist, the arrival at the Roubaix velodrome is also a great moment. Even after dozens of times!
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For the legend this race is, and how normal in fact the velodrome is...
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A very famous part of the Paris/Roubaix cycling race
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Last bend before the cyclists enter the track.
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Ideal spot for a picnic next to the statue. My journey is then about half way.
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Mythical place for cycling lovers, unmissable if you go cycling in these areas
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Menen offers several historical sites. You can visit the Menen German War Cemetery to learn about the city's role in past conflicts. The Black Watch Corner Memorial is another significant site, commemorating a pivotal moment during WW1. Additionally, the Roubaix Velodrome, though primarily a sports venue, holds deep historical significance in cycling.
Yes, the region around Menen features natural attractions. The Espierres Canal is a notable waterway, originally built to connect the Deûle with the Scheldt. The Leie river forms part of the border with France and offers scenic views. For dog owners, the Hondenzone Preshoekbos in Lauwe, near Menen, is a natural area suitable for outdoor enjoyment.
Absolutely. The area around Menen is well-suited for cycling. You can find various routes, including those along the Leie River and the Canal de Roubaix. For more detailed options, explore the Cycling around Menen guide, which includes routes like 'Cycling route along the Lys - West Flanders' and 'Towpath of the Lys – Pont Rouge loop from Menen'.
Yes, the broader Flanders region, where Menen is located, is known for beautiful landscapes offering hiking and walking opportunities. You can find various running and walking trails. For specific routes, check the Running Trails around Menen guide, which lists options such as 'Walking on Water – Dragonfly loop from Menin' and '17-oktoberbos loop from Menin'.
Several attractions around Menen are considered family-friendly. The Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix is a great spot for families to cycle or walk. The Espierres Canal also offers pleasant surroundings for family outings. Additionally, the Black Watch Corner Memorial can be a meaningful educational visit for older children.
Beyond its historical sites, Menen has a distinct local character. While many cultural listings point to nearby cities, Menen itself offers local charm, including traditional cheese shops and lively bars. The Menen Town Hall is a significant civic building worth noting for its architectural and historical presence in the city.
Yes, dog owners can enjoy the Hondenzone Preshoekbos located in Lauwe, near Menen. This natural area is specifically suitable for dog walking and offers a pleasant environment for you and your pet to enjoy the outdoors.
The region is characterized by its waterways and bridges. The Espierres Canal is a significant historical waterway. The Belgium–France Border on the Canal de Roubaix marks where the canal changes its name. Further afield, the College Bridge in Kortrijk is a striking pylon bridge for pedestrians and cyclists with a characteristic zigzag shape over the Leie river.
Visitors appreciate the blend of history and outdoor activity. For instance, the Roubaix Velodrome is highly regarded for its cycling history. The canals, like the Espierres Canal, are praised for being 'nice for cycling' with 'beautiful surroundings'. The border crossing on the Canal de Roubaix is noted as a unique experience for cyclists.
Yes, gravel biking is a popular activity in the area. You can find several routes designed for gravel biking, offering a mix of terrain. The Gravel biking around Menen guide features routes such as 'The River Lys at Wervicq – Towpath of the Lys loop from Wevelgem' and 'Bois Leurent Park – Old Leie loop from Menen'.
Menen is a city with local infrastructure, and public transport options are generally available within the region to connect to various points of interest. For specific routes or attractions, it's advisable to check local public transport schedules.
The broader Flanders region, including Menen, is enjoyable for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons typically offer milder weather, making it ideal for cycling, hiking, and exploring historical sites. Late autumn and winter can be colder and wetter, but still offer opportunities for brisk walks.


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