Attractions and Places To See around Houplines - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Houplines include a mix of natural landscapes, historical sites, and cultural points of interest. This commune in northern France features green spaces, the Lys River, and a rural setting with agricultural fields. The area offers opportunities for walks and exploring local heritage, with many sites reflecting its history and natural environment. Houplines provides a blend of outdoor activities and cultural insights for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see around Houplines
- The most popular attractions is Port of Wambrechies, a river area that offers a quiet and peaceful environment. It is located close to the church, the castle of Robersart, and a distillery.
- Another must-see spot is Mesen, a settlement known as the smallest town in Belgium. Visitors can climb the tower of St. Nicholas Church for a panoramic view over the hills of the Heuvelland towards Lille.
- Visitors also love General de Gaulle Square, an old medieval market place in Lille. This square is a central point for sightseeing in Lille's old town and features the Old Exchange building, known for its Flemish Baroque style.
- Houplines is known for its natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and cultural experiences. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from river ports to historical town squares and significant settlements.
- The attractions around Houplines are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 700 upvotes and over 40 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Port of Wambrechies
Highlight • River
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Old Stock Exchange of Lille
Highlight • Historical Site
The tower features a gold-colored Mercury (the god of trade) and the facade looks rich due to the combination of red brick with white natural stone, lavishly decorated with fruit, horns of plenty, medallions and other ornaments.
It is a successful calling card of (Baroque) Flemish architecture in the 17th century.
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Mesen
Highlight • Settlement
St. Nicholas Church with its striking dome dates back to those golden years. The entire building was damaged during the First World War and only partially rebuilt in 1928. Only the tower is a reminder of what the church must have looked like in the past.
Want to keep track? Then climb the tower. 37 meters above the ground you have a wonderful panoramic view over the hills of the Heuvelland to Lille.
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Pool of Peace (Spanbroekmolen Crater)
Highlight • Natural Monument
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General de Gaulle Square
Highlight • Settlement
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Tips from the Community
Super nice, and go inside the courtyard, you have old book sellers there.
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Mesen (also called Messines) is the smallest city in Belgium with only about 1075 inhabitants. Mesen has a rich history dating back to Roman times and played an important role in medieval trade, especially in the cloth and leather industry . The town is best known for the Battle of Mesen during the First World War, where it was a strategic location . Today, Mesen is home to several monuments and memorials, such as the New Zealand Division Memorial and the Irish Peace Tower, which commemorate the history and sacrifices of the soldiers during the war .
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Place du Général de Gaulle is an old medieval market place, where a tree has never stood. The traders met here three times a day, in all weathers. Until they received permission from Philip IV of Spain to build the Old Exchange in 1652. The building was finished in 2 years and is made of porous stone, which is why it is painted. The restoration of the front facade was financed by companies, their logos can be found above the top row of windows. This building has 24 homes that are still mostly occupied by their owners. We also notice the many sculptures, typical of the Flemish Baroque style, but also because the architect, Julien Destrée, was a wood sculptor. Above the entrance gate we see the symbol of Lille (Fleur de Lys), with next to it the lions of Flanders and the crown of the city (with fortress towers on top) and two horns. Horns of Plenty, to refer to the wealth of Lille.
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One of these important sights is the Place du Général de Gaulle, also known as the "Grand Place". A must-see! He was a general, resistance fighter and president - Charles de Gaulle is still a great personality for many French people today. He has been dead for over 50 years and this great square is here in his memory.
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Also known as Grand’Place, this square is the beating heart of the city. It is surrounded by colorful facades and historical monuments, including the Old Stock Exchange and the Goddess Column. The square was named in honor of Charles de Gaulle, born in Lille, and is a gathering place for various events and festivities
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Built between 1652 and 1653, this former stock exchange is a jewel of Flemish architecture. It is made up of 24 identical houses surrounding an interior courtyard where book sellers and tango demonstrations take place today in summer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Houplines?
Houplines offers several natural areas for relaxation and outdoor activities. You can visit Parc Paul Harris, a peaceful green space by the Lys River, or the Étangs du Pont Ballot, five bodies of water with an ornithological observatory and apiary. The Chemin de Halage (Towpath) along the Lys River is also ideal for walks, connecting Houplines to Frelinghien. Additionally, the Pool of Peace (Spanbroekmolen Crater), a historical natural monument with a lake, offers a serene environment and beautiful views.
Are there historical sites to visit in the Houplines area?
Yes, the region has a rich history. You can explore the Hôtel de Ville and the Church of Saint Charles in Houplines, both designed by architect Albert Baert. Further afield, the Old Stock Exchange of Lille is a magnificent 17th-century building showcasing Flemish Baroque style. The settlement of Mesen, known as Belgium's smallest town, also holds significant historical importance, particularly from the First World War, and features St. Nicholas Church.
What cultural experiences are available near Houplines?
For a unique cultural experience, visit Le Petit Musée de la Gaufre (The Little Waffle Museum), which displays collections of waffle irons and old Flemish fires, concluding with a tasting (reservations required). The Jean-Charles Bringuez Center also hosts various shows and cultural events, including workshops and literary cafés.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Houplines is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking along the Lys River towpath or explore local hiking trails like 'Towards Little Flanders' (6 km) and 'The front line along the Lys' (15 km). For cycling enthusiasts, there are numerous routes. You can find detailed MTB Trails, Road Cycling Routes, and Touring Bicycle routes around Houplines.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Houplines?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Parc Paul Harris features a playground, and the educational and gourmet experience at Le Petit Musée de la Gaufre can be enjoyable for all ages. The Port of Wambrechies offers a quiet, peaceful environment, and the Pool of Peace is a serene natural spot. Historic sites like the Old Stock Exchange of Lille and Mesen are also considered family-friendly.
Where can I find good viewpoints in the Houplines region?
For panoramic views, you can climb the tower of St. Nicholas Church in Mesen, which offers a wonderful vista over the hills towards Lille. The Pool of Peace is also noted for its beautiful views. Additionally, the Port of Wambrechies is categorized as a viewpoint, offering scenic river views.
What are some popular cycling routes in the area?
The region offers diverse cycling options. For an easy touring bicycle ride, consider the 'Lys River Path – Pont Rouge loop from Houplines' (22.4 km). If you're looking for mountain biking, the 'Kemmelberg - The Angel – Bois de la Hutte Forest Trails loop from Armentières' (40.8 km) is a moderate option. Road cyclists might enjoy 'On the Front' (92.1 km). You can find more routes in the Cycling around Houplines guide.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions?
Yes, General de Gaulle Square in Lille, a central point for sightseeing, is noted as wheelchair accessible. While Houplines itself has green spaces, it's always advisable to check specific accessibility details for individual paths or facilities.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Houplines?
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty, historical depth, and cultural insights. The peaceful environment of places like the Port of Wambrechies and the historical significance of sites like Mesen are frequently highlighted. The architectural beauty of the Old Stock Exchange of Lille and the vibrant atmosphere of General de Gaulle Square are also popular among visitors.
What are some lesser-known spots or 'hidden gems' in the Houplines area?
Beyond the main highlights, Houplines' rural landscape, with two-thirds of its area consisting of agricultural fields and meadows, offers quiet charm. Exploring the various local walking routes, such as those around La Plaine de Loisirs André Claeys, can reveal hidden treasures and provide a deeper connection to the region's natural environment and local heritage.
Can I find places for wildlife spotting near Houplines?
Yes, the Étangs du Pont Ballot are particularly good for wildlife spotting, featuring an ornithological observatory where you can observe local flora and fauna. The natural areas along the Lys River and the various green spaces also provide opportunities to encounter local wildlife.
What is the best time to visit Houplines for outdoor activities?
The green spaces and natural areas around Houplines are ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities, suggesting that warmer months, typically from spring through early autumn, would be the most pleasant for exploring the walking trails, cycling paths, and river areas.
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