Hainaut

Hainaut is a province of contrasts, where the remnants of a booming industrial past meet the serene beauty of the Walloon countryside. The region is dotted with impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the major mining sites of Wallonia like Grand-Hornu and Bois-du-Luc, which offer a fascinating glimpse into the 19th-century coal industry. Meanwhile, cities like Tournai boast some of the oldest and most striking medieval architecture in Belgium, notably the five-towered Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Nature and leisure also play a significant role in Hainaut's appeal. The province is home to the Eau d'Heure lakes, the largest lake area in Belgium, providing ample opportunities for water sports and relaxation. Additionally, the world-renowned Pairi Daiza zoo offers an immersive journey through different global habitats, making it a must-visit for families. Whether you are indulging in the local culinary delights, exploring ancient castles, or cycling through picturesque villages, Hainaut delivers a deeply enriching travel experience.

Reasons to Visit

• Explore multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites, including historic belfries and industrial mining complexes.
• Visit Pairi Daiza, consistently voted one of the best zoological parks in Europe.
• Experience authentic Belgian beer culture with a visit to the Chimay region.
• Marvel at the engineering brilliance of the Strépy-Thieu boat lift and the historic Canal du Centre.
• Wander through Tournai, one of the oldest cities in Belgium, featuring stunning medieval architecture.

Things to Avoid

• Avoid relying solely on public transport if you plan to visit remote abbeys or rural nature reserves; a car is much more convenient.
• Don't forget to check the opening hours of museums and attractions, as many are closed on Mondays.
• Avoid dining in the immediate vicinity of major tourist squares if you are looking for budget-friendly, authentic meals; walk a few streets away for better value.

Local Transportation Tips

Hainaut is well-connected by the Belgian national railway system (SNCB), making travel between major hubs like Mons, Charleroi, and Tournai straightforward and comfortable. Local buses operated by TEC serve the towns and villages. However, to truly experience the province's rural charm, historic battlefields, and secluded abbeys, renting a car is highly advantageous. Cycling is also a popular way to explore, thanks to the extensive RAVeL network of dedicated paths built on old railway lines and towpaths.

Travel Etiquette

• Greet shopkeepers with a polite 'Bonjour' when entering and 'Au revoir' when leaving.
• Tipping is not obligatory as service is included in the bill, but leaving a small amount of change for exceptional service is appreciated.
• Dress neatly when visiting religious sites like the Tournai Cathedral; avoid overly revealing clothing.
• Respect the quiet atmosphere if visiting the grounds of active abbeys like Scourmont.

Recommended Age Group

Hainaut offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to various age groups, ensuring a memorable trip for everyone.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. While many parks are accessible, navigating cobblestone streets in historic centers with a stroller can be challenging.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Attractions like Pairi Daiza, interactive science museums, and boat rides on the canals are highly engaging for children.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. Teens will appreciate the impressive engineering sites, historic castles, and outdoor activities like cycling and water sports at the Eau d'Heure lakes.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. The rich history, stunning architecture, and exceptional local gastronomy, including Trappist beer tastings, make it perfect for adults.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The region offers relaxed sightseeing, accessible boat tours, and rich cultural heritage that can be enjoyed at a leisurely pace.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• Major museums and modern attractions like Pairi Daiza are well-equipped with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.
• Historic city centers, such as Mons and Tournai, feature cobblestone streets which may pose challenges for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
• The Belgian rail network offers assistance for travelers with reduced mobility, but it must be booked in advance.
• Many of the RAVeL cycling and walking paths are flat and paved, making them suitable for mobility scooters and wheelchairs.

Did You Know?

Did you know that the city of Mons in Hainaut hosts an annual festival called the Doudou (Ducasse de Mons), which is recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity? The festival features a spectacular mock battle between Saint George and a dragon.

Cool Statistics

• Hainaut is home to 19 UNESCO World Heritage recognitions, including sites and intangible cultural heritage.
• The Strépy-Thieu boat lift in Hainaut was the tallest boat lift in the world until 2016, overcoming a height difference of 73.15 meters.
• Tournai Cathedral, located in Hainaut, is over 800 years old and features five distinct bell towers.
• Pairi Daiza spans over 75 hectares and houses more than 7,000 animals from around the globe.