Hainaut Travel Guide

Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide to Hainaut, Belgium. Learn about the cultural and natural attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay and more.


Introduction to Hainaut

Located in Wallonia, in Belgium, Hainaut is an idyllic region that’s known for its natural beauty, rich history, and cultural attractions. It’s no wonder that it has become a popular tourist destination in recent years. Hainaut offers visitors a mix of modern and traditional attractions that are sure to captivate anyone’s imagination.

From museums and historical places to natural wonders and outdoor adventures, Hainaut has something for everyone. This guide will help you plan your perfect trip by providing a comprehensive list of attractions, activities, and accommodations to make the most of your time in Hainaut.

List of Places to Visit in Hainaut

If you’re planning a visit to Hainaut, here’s a list of must-visit places that’ll help you uncover the region’s beauty and culture:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Grand-Hornu: Former coal-mining site turned museum, Grand-Hornu offers visitors a glimpse into the industrial past of Hainaut.

  • Mons Memorial Museum: A tribute to the First World War, the Mons Memorial Museum houses an impressive collection of military memorabilia.

  • Folklore Museum: Located in Ath, the Folklore Museum showcases the region’s customs and traditions, including straw dolls, old tools, and carnival costumes.

Natural Attractions of Hainaut: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pays des Collines: The picturesque Pays des Collines is a hilly region located between Brussels and Lille. It’s perfect for hiking and cycling, and also boasts beautiful views of the countryside.

  • Eau d’Heure Lakes: With a surface area of 600 hectares, the Eau d’Heure Lakes are the largest in Belgium. They offer ample water sports activities such as kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, and fishing.

  • Pairi Daiza: A 55-hectare zoo and botanical garden located in Brugelette, Pairi Daiza is a must-visit attraction for animal lovers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hainaut

Hainaut is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Here are a few of the best hiking and biking routes:

  • RAVeL Mons-Chimay: This 100 km cycling path connects Mons to Chimay, allowing you to explore the beautiful scenic landscape of Hainaut.

  • GR 129: This long-distance hiking trail extends from the North Sea in Flanders to the Ardennes in Wallonia. Part of the trail passes through Hainaut, providing fantastic views of the region’s beautiful countryside.

  • Le Sentier de la Truite: Known as the Trout Path, this 11km-long path is ideal for hiking enthusiasts who enjoy breathtaking landscapes and riverside views.

Best Things to Do in Hainaut: Activities and Tours

Hainaut offers a range of activities and tours that will keep you engaged throughout your trip. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Boat Ride on the Saint-Vaast Canal: Take a relaxing boat ride along the Saint-Vaast Canal and soak in the picturesque landscape of Hainaut.

  • Funicular at Strépy-Thieu: This giant elevator lift connects the levels of the canal between the lifts of Strépy-Thieu. It offers a unique and exciting experience to visitors.

  • Beer Tasting: Hainaut is home to many breweries, with Chimay and Leffe being the most popular. Go on a beer tasting tour and sample some of the best brews in the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hainaut

Here’s a sample itinerary that will allow you to make the most of your weeklong trip to Hainaut:

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Mons
Day 2 Visit Grand-Hornu, Mons Memorial Museum, and Saint-Waudru Collegiate Church
Day 3 Explore Pairi Daiza
Day 4 Hike or Bike around Pays des Collines
Day 5 Visit the Folkmuseum and enjoy a boat ride on the Saint-Vaast Canal
Day 6 Explore Eau d’Heure Lakes
Day 7 Visit Chimay Brewery and sample some local beers

Food and Drink Scene of Hainaut

Hainaut has a rich culinary tradition that dates back centuries. Here are a few dishes and beverages that you must try while in Hainaut:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carbonnade flamande: This classic Belgian dish is made of beef slowly cooked in beer with onions and brown sugar. A hearty meal that’ll keep you warm on a cold day.

  • Poulet à la bière: This is another beer-based dish that consists of chicken cooked in beer, with onions, mushrooms, and spices.

  • Waterzooi: This is a hearty stew made with fish or chicken, potatoes, carrots, and herbs.

Local Beverages

  • Chimay: Belgian Trappist beer, brewed by monks at the Chimay Abbey, is a must-try for beer lovers.

  • Leffe: Another famous Belgian ale, Leffe has a sweet and fruity taste, and it goes well with most traditional Belgian dishes.

  • Peket: A strong spirit made from juniper berries, Peket is a popular digestif in Hainaut.

Where to Stay in Hainaut: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hainaut offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Here are a few suggestions:

  • Best Western Plus Hotel Lido Mons Centre: This four-star hotel located in the center of Mons, offers modern, comfortable rooms with a fitness center, bar, and restaurant.

  • Le Terminus: This cozy and budget-friendly hotel located in Binche offers comfortable rooms with a lounge bar and free parking.

  • La Table de Maxime: A charming guesthouse located in the Pays des Collines region, La Table de Maxime offers luxurious rooms with a restaurant and spa facilities.

What to Buy in Hainaut: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are a few souvenirs and local products that you can bring back home from Hainaut:

  • Chimay Cheese: A must-try for cheese lovers, Chimay cheese is a soft cow’s milk cheese that’s produced in the Chimay region.

  • Binche Carnival Souvenirs: Binche Carnival is a UNESCO heritage event, and you can find many souvenirs and masks in the city center.

  • Artisanal Beers: Hainaut is known for its traditional beers, and you can find them in most supermarkets and beer specialty stores.

Local Culture and Customs of Hainaut

Hainaut has a rich cultural heritage, with many customs and traditions that are unique to the region. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Binche Carnival: One of the most popular events in Hainaut, Binche Carnival takes place in February and is famous for its Gilles costumes and mask.

  • Saint George’s Day: On April 23rd, Hainaut celebrates Saint George’s Day, the patron saint of the region. Expect colorful parades and festivities on this day.

  • Belfries: Hainaut has four belfries that have been recognized as UNESCO World Heritage sites. These towers are an essential part of the region’s heritage.

Best Time to Visit Hainaut

The best time to visit Hainaut is during the spring and summer months from April to September when the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are available.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hainaut

Here are a few do’s and don’ts to keep in mind whilst visiting Hainaut:

Do:

  • Try the local beers and cuisine.

  • Respect local customs and traditions

  • Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places

  • Litter or vandalize

  • Take photographs without permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Hainaut

Overall, Hainaut is a safe place to visit. However, it’s always advisable to take the necessary precautions while traveling. Here are a few safety tips:

  • Stay alert and vigilant, especially in crowded places

  • Keep an eye on your belongings in public areas

  • Avoid dark and isolated areas at night

Health in Hainaut

Hainaut has excellent healthcare facilities, and visitors can avail medical services in public hospitals or private clinics. It is mandatory to have travel health insurance before entering Belgium.

Getting to Hainaut: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hainaut is well-connected to other Belgian cities and towns via road and public transport.

Airports Near Hainaut

The nearest airport to Hainaut is Brussels International Airport, located around 60 km away. From there, you can take a bus or train to Hainaut.

Bus Stations Near Hainaut

Several bus companies operate in Hainaut, including Flibco, TEC Hainaut, and Eurolines. You can find bus stations in most major cities and towns.

Other Options

Hainaut is well-connected via rail to other Belgian cities and towns. The Eurostar train connects Hainaut to London and Paris via the Brussels-South railway station.

How to Get Around in Hainaut

The best way to get around Hainaut is by car or bicycle. Public transport is available, but it’s not very convenient. A car rental will be the most convenient and useful, especially if you plan on exploring the countryside or remote areas.

Where to Go Next from Hainaut: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’d like to explore other destinations nearby, here are a few suggestions:

  • Brussels: The capital city of Belgium is just an hour’s drive from Hainaut and is an essential destination for any visitor.

  • Bruges: A UNESCO heritage site, Bruges is a historic city known for its picturesque canals and charming old town.

  • Lille: This French city is just a short drive across the border from Hainaut. It’s known for its vibrant cultural scene and excellent shopping.

Conclusion

Hainaut is a beautiful region of Belgium that offers visitors a mix of culture, nature, and adventure. Whether you’re into outdoor pursuits or prefer to explore museums and historical sites, Hainaut has something for everyone. With this comprehensive guide, you’ll be able to plan your perfect trip to this charming destination. Bon voyage!



    Charleroi
    Chimay
    La Louvière
    Mons
    Pottes
    Spiennes