Attractions and Places To See around Brunehaut - Top 20

Brunehaut is rich in history. You can visit the impressive Pont des Trous in nearby Tournai, a medieval military bridge. Another significant site is the Pierre Brunehaut, a large Neolithic menhir in Hollain, steeped in local legends. The region also features several protected heritage churches, such as the 15th-century choir of the Church of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine in Howardries, and the historic Château de Lannoy.

Yes, for natural beauty, the Scarpe-Escaut Regional Nature Park is a significant attraction nearby. You can also visit the Brunehaut Orchards, known for their environmentally conscious methods and local produce like apple and pear juice. The Petit Marais in Hollain offers a recreational area that was once home to a pontoon across the Scheldt River.

The area is excellent for cycling and hiking. Cyclists often challenge themselves on Mont-Saint-Aubert, known for its challenging climbs and scenic surroundings. The mythical Carrefour de l'Arbre cobbled sector, part of the Paris-Roubaix race, also attracts cyclists. For more outdoor options, explore the various hiking trails, MTB trails, and road cycling routes available around Brunehaut.

Families can enjoy exploring the historical sites like the Pierre Brunehaut, which sparks imagination with its ancient origins and legends. The Brunehaut Orchards offer a pleasant outing, especially for those interested in local agriculture. The Petit Marais also provides a nice spot for a leisurely stroll. While not explicitly listed as 'family-friendly' in all categories, many of the natural areas and less strenuous hiking routes are suitable for families.

Cyclists seeking a challenge should head to Mont-Saint-Aubert, which offers demanding climbs and a network of trails. The Carrefour de l'Arbre cobbled sector is another iconic and difficult section, famous from the Paris-Roubaix race. Other challenging cobbled sectors include the Pave Bourghelles to Wannehain and the Secteur Pavés Duclos-Lassalle.

The Pierre Brunehaut, located in Hollain, is Belgium's largest built megalith, weighing 23 tons and standing 4.25 meters above ground. It's a Neolithic menhir situated near an ancient Roman road and has been a protected heritage site since 1934. Local legends attribute its erection to Queen Brunehaut or even Jesus, who is said to have left a footprint on it, making it a site of historical and mythical interest. More details can be found on Visit A City.

Yes, Mont-Saint-Aubert is not only a challenging climb but also offers beautiful panoramas and scenic surroundings, making it a popular spot for views. The area around Brunehaut generally features flat landscapes, but elevated points like Mont-Saint-Aubert provide excellent vantage points.

Beyond the historical landmarks, the nearby city of Tournai offers significant cultural sites. The Grand Place of Tournai, a triangular square, has been a central hub for culture and trade for centuries, surrounded by historic buildings like the Cloth Hall and the Belfry. The Fontaine Norbert Duroisin in Hollain, designed by local artists, is another point of cultural interest.

Brunehaut offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. You can find routes like the 'Saint Eleutherius Church – Lesdain Rose Nurseries loop from Brunehaut' or the 'Gravel Path Between Fields – Daffodil Fields of Howardries loop'. These trails often take you through scenic countryside, past historic churches, and through natural areas. For detailed routes, refer to the Hiking around Brunehaut guide.

The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and early autumn. Spring brings blooming orchards and comfortable temperatures for hiking and cycling. Summer offers longer daylight hours, while early autumn provides beautiful foliage. Some cycling events, like the Paris-Roubaix, occur in spring, showcasing the challenging cobbled sectors.

While the Pierre Brunehaut is well-known, its ancient mystique still feels like a discovery. The Brunehaut Orchards, with their focus on sustainable practices and local produce, offer a charming and authentic experience. The various historic churches scattered throughout the municipality, often protected heritage sites, also provide quiet moments of historical reflection away from larger crowds.

The Carrefour de l'Arbre cobbled sector is a mythical and decisive section of the Paris-Roubaix cycling race. It's renowned for its extremely difficult cobblestones, especially the first 200 meters with technical turns, and a heavily curved road. This sector is often where the race's outcome is determined, earning it a 5-star difficulty rating among cyclists.