Best lakes around Genappe include a significant natural reserve, the Réserve Naturelle des Décanteurs de la Sucrerie de Genappe, known for its exceptional biodiversity. This 77-hectare site, once industrial settling basins, now features various water bodies and reed beds. The area offers unique ecosystems and opportunities for wildlife observation, particularly birdwatching.
Last updated: August 11, 2026
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Popular around Genappe
Crossing from east to west — Wallonia by Gravel
Belgian Ballads – winter hiking in the Belgian Ardennes
Walks in the Belgian Ardennes — historic walls & magical forests
Belgische Balladen - charmante Kurzwanderungen in den belgischen Ardennen
Hiking around Genappe
Running Trails around Genappe
Road Cycling Routes around Genappe
MTB Trails around Genappe
Cycling around Genappe
Gravel biking around Genappe
To see and don't hesitate to get lost there
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Early in the morning to avoid the crowds
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The Genval Lake (French: Lac de Genval) is located on the edge of the Sonian Forest southeast of Brussels. The lake is partly in Genval, a sub-municipality of Rixensart in the province of Walloon Brabant and partly in Overijse in the province of Flemish Brabant. It is an artificial lake that was created in 1903 by creating artificial banks around a marshy area.[1] Around the lake are several buildings from the Belle Époque, including the five-star hotel Château du Lac. The area around the lake is very touristic and is home to a yacht club, among other things. nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Meer_van_Genval
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The Genval lake is located in the Zilverbeek valley. The artificial lake is located for the most part on the territory of Overijse and was constructed by order of lawyer and businessman Gustave Smets - Mondez. The 18 ha lake was constructed in 1904 in an area with a series of spring-rich ponds and marshes through which the Zilverbeek or the Argentine flowed. The Zilverbeek still flows along the lake on the Overijse side. The area attracted many tourists from the very beginning. Around 1900, the urban development plans were also drawn up for the construction of the park on the Walloon side. Several impressive villas were built here that were reminiscent of copies of buildings from Versailles and monuments on the Swiss Lake Lucerne. On the Overijse side, there was less interest in the construction, which is why the slopes are less developed than on the Walloon side, where it was promoted as a spa. After the First World War, the lake was sold to John Martin (1886-1966), an English brewer from Antwerp. He would establish the Schweppes factory here (Belgian license) in the "Château du Lac" (until 1981). The lake is still in the hands of his heirs. On the Meerlaan there are still a few cottage-style villas overlooking the lake. These villas are depicted on various old postcards and are still recognizable today but have been heavily modified. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Maleizen, https://id.erfgoed.net/themas/14294
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Genval Lake is an atmospheric spot with beautiful clear water, surrounded by stately old villas and shady trees. A picturesque path follows the banks, ideal for a walk along the rippling water.
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The path which crosses the Solvay estate and which passes near the Château de La Hulpe is in good condition and has only a few holes filled with water... but easily avoidable.
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The region around Genappe offers a variety of natural features, from the unique ecosystem of the Réserve Naturelle des Décanteurs de la Sucrerie de Genappe, known for its rich biodiversity and birdlife, to the expansive forests and ponds within domains like Domaine Solvay. You'll find reed beds, mudflats, and diverse flora and fauna, particularly around the nature reserve.
Yes, the Réserve Naturelle des Décanteurs de la Sucrerie de Genappe is considered one of the most important ornithological sites in Wallonia. Over 200 bird species have been recorded there, making it a prime destination for birdwatching, especially during migratory periods. Observation points are available along the walking path to view wildlife without disturbance.
This 77-hectare nature reserve is unique because it was established on the former settling basins of a sugar factory. This transformation from an industrial site into a thriving natural habitat showcases ecological succession and restoration, creating a biodiversity hotspot with various water features, reed beds, and mudflats.
Yes, for independent visitors, the Réserve Naturelle des Décanteurs de la Sucrerie de Genappe features an exterior walking path called 'La Balade du Tadorne,' which is just under 5 km long. Additionally, the large park surrounding Château de La Hulpe and Domaine Solvay offer extensive walking opportunities. Lake Genval also provides pleasant country walks along its shores.
Beyond walking and birdwatching, Lake Genval offers activities such as angling, sailing, and canoeing. For more extensive outdoor pursuits, you can explore numerous routes for hiking, gravel biking, and cycling in the wider Genappe area.
Absolutely. Many of the areas around Genappe's water features are family-friendly. Château de La Hulpe and Domaine Solvay are public parks with ample space for families to explore. Lake Genval is also a popular spot for families, offering walks and water activities. The 'La Balade du Tadorne' at the Réserve Naturelle is suitable for families interested in nature observation.
Yes, the region is rich in history. Château de La Hulpe, a castle built in 1842, is set within a beautiful park. Domaine Solvay also houses the Château de Béthune. The Zevenbronnen Pond area is the site of a former Augustinian monastery, with a history dating back to the 14th century. Lake Genval is surrounded by opulent Belle Époque villas and features the iconic Little Mermaid of the Lake statue.
While Genappe features several water bodies, the primary natural attraction, the Réserve Naturelle des Décanteurs de la Sucrerie de Genappe, is a protected ecological site and not intended for recreational swimming. Lake Genval offers activities like sailing and canoeing, but specific swimming conditions should be checked locally as regulations can vary.
Yes, guided tours are regularly organized by local environmental associations in collaboration with the municipality of Genappe for the Réserve Naturelle des Décanteurs de la Sucrerie de Genappe. These tours are led by naturalists and ornithologists and offer insights into the reserve's bird species, its industrial past, and ongoing conservation efforts.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and nature immersion offered by sites like the Réserve Naturelle des Décanteurs de la Sucrerie de Genappe, especially for birdwatching. The beautiful parklands of Château de La Hulpe and Domaine Solvay are also highly rated for their scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Lake Genval is enjoyed for its walks, water activities, and charming lakeside restaurants.
The park surrounding Château de La Hulpe is noted as being wheelchair accessible, offering paths suitable for visitors with limited mobility to enjoy the gardens and water features. For other locations, it's advisable to check specific accessibility details, as terrain can vary.


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