Attractions and Places To See around Bavay - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Bavay offer a rich historical experience, particularly its Gallo-Roman past. The area features significant archaeological sites, historical architecture, and access to natural beauty. Bavay was once the ancient capital of the Nervii, known as Bagacum Nerviorum, and served as an important Roman road center. Visitors can explore a blend of cultural heritage and natural landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Bavay
- The most popular attractions is Le Caillou-qui-Bique, a natural monument…
Last updated: May 4, 2026
Le Caillou-qui-Bique
Highlight • Natural Monument
A little step back in time... …
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Le Chalet Du Garde
Highlight • Cafe
A growing number of tourists encouraged Léon Laurent to build a café restaurant in 1892 with a billiard room and bedrooms. It was the time of …
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Bois d'Angre
Highlight • Forest
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Emile Verhaeren Stone
Highlight • Monument
"Admire man and admire the earth, and you will live fervently and …
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Fort de Leveau
Highlight • Historical Site
Fort Leveau is one of six forts (Sarts, Boussois, Cerfontaine, Bourdiau, Hautmont and Leveau) built on the outskirts of Maubeuge to protect the border. It was built …
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Tips from the Community
cafe in the middle of the woods, very friendly owner with cozy terrace. definitely recommended.
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Very friendly welcome! Ideal place during a hike or a stroll in the surrounding area to drink a local beer, Daffodil.
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The Bois d'Angre, located in Honnelles, is a forest renowned for the Caillou-qui-Bique, a 370 million year old pudding rock. This forest is home to rich biodiversity with oaks, ash trees and various rare species. A place of legends and hikes, the Angre woods is a precious natural site in Wallonia, managed by Natagora and other organizations to preserve its unique fauna and flora.
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This rock formation is very special in the forest!
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A legend has been perpetuated for generations on this 25 meter high stone planted on a ridge (in patois we say that it rocks). A little step back in time... Saint-Ghislain completes the construction of its abbey. The devil decides that he will take advantage of the inauguration day to destroy the abbey and its occupants, by throwing an enormous stone found in the Pyrenees at the community. An angel warns Saint-Ghislain of the imminent danger weighing on the abbey. He gathers as many pairs of worn shoes as possible, which he slips into a huge bag and takes to the road to meet the evil one. Coming across a poor fellow in rags with holes in his shoes at this place, the devil, quite exhausted by the heavy load, questions him: “Is the abbey of Saint-Ghislain still far away? ". - “I’m coming from there, if it’s far!” » replies the old man while emptying his bag, filled with threadbare shoes, in front of the devil. Discouraged and disappointed, Satan preferred to give up, dropping his heavy stone on the ground and walking away blaspheming, fooled by the subterfuge. An hour and a half. N.B.: some historians say that this is the legend of Saint Remacle, during the construction of Stavelot Abbey. You are therefore free to substitute Remacle for Saint-Ghislain since this substitution does not modify the spirit of the story. In both cases, the devil is defeated. Cfr de informatiesteen ter hoogte van Le Chalet de Garde.
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Friendly welcome and low prices!
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Emile Adolphus Gustavus Verhaeren (Sint-Amands, May 21, 1855 – Rouen, November 27, 1916) was a French-speaking Belgian author and a representative of Symbolism. He was a poet, wrote short stories, art criticism and drama. His work has been translated into 28 languages (including English, Russian, German, Chinese and Japanese).[1] Verhaeren made his debut in 1883 with Les Flamandes, a naturalistic collection inspired by the voluptuous scenes from Flemish painting of the 16th and 17th centuries. In 1886 Les Moines follows in the sphere of religious mysticism. From 1888 to 1891 he published his black trilogy: Les Soirs (1888), Les Débâcles (1888) and Flambeaux noirs (1891). The collections, published bibliophile by Edmond Deman in Brussels, bathe in the dark fin-de-siècle atmosphere of melancholy and self-torture. Those were the years in which Verhaeren suffered from neurasthenia. https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emile_Verhaeren
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The Bois d'Angre or Bois du Caillou-qui-bique is a Belgian forest located in Angre in the commune of Honnelles in the Walloon region, on a private plot. It is particularly known for its "poudingue" (hard rock sediment), 370 million years old, 25 meters high, whose shape is reminiscent of a human face. He is also said to have inspired the poet Émile Verhaeren. https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bois_d%27Angre
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Bavay?
Bavay is rich in Gallo-Roman history. You can visit the Ancient Forum of Bavay and Archaeological Museum, one of the largest Roman forums in France, featuring remains of a basilica, temples, and a cryptoporticus. Don't miss the Hypocaust of Bavay, a 1st-century Roman underfloor heating system. The Brunehaut Column also marks the crossroads of ancient Roman roads, recalling the area's historical importance.
Are there any notable churches or architectural landmarks in Bavay?
Yes, Bavay features several significant architectural sites. The Town Hall and its Belfry showcase stunning Flemish Renaissance architecture, offering panoramic views from its belfry. You can also visit the Gothic Église Notre-Dame de l'Assomption from the 13th century, which houses 18th-century statues and funerary slabs, and the historic Saint-Nicolas Church.
What natural attractions are there around Bavay?
The region around Bavay offers diverse natural beauty. It's situated in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional de l'Avesnois, which provides numerous hiking opportunities. Within Bavay, Les Jardins de la Grange nature park is home to diverse flora and fauna, walking trails, and an observation tower. You can also explore the Regional Nature Reserve of the career of the Nervii for archaeological and geological interest.
Are there any unique natural monuments or features to see?
Absolutely! One unique natural monument is Le Caillou-qui-Bique, a 25-meter high stone with a local legend, located on the edge of a path. Nearby, the Bois d'Angre forest is renowned for its 370-million-year-old pudding rock and rich biodiversity, offering several walks to discover its natural riches.
What outdoor activities can I do near Bavay?
The area around Bavay is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, road cycling, and touring cycling. For example, explore the running trails around Bavay, or embark on a road cycling route like the 'Berlaimont Church – Le Quesnoy loop'. There are also many general cycling routes, such as the 'Au Baron – Col du Long Buisson loop'.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Ancient Forum of Bavay and Archaeological Museum can be an educational experience for older children. For outdoor fun, Les Jardins de la Grange nature park offers walking trails and wildlife spotting. Nearby, the Parc Zoologique de Maubeuge is a popular attraction for families, and the Le Chalet Du Garde cafe is a family-friendly stop during a hike.
Where can I find a good place to stop for refreshments during an outdoor excursion?
If you're exploring the natural areas, particularly near Le Caillou-qui-Bique and the Bois d'Angre, Le Chalet Du Garde is an ideal spot. Established in 1892, this cafe restaurant offers a friendly welcome and is perfect for a break, perhaps with a local beer like the Jonquille.
What is the Forest of Mormal and what does it offer?
The Forest of Mormal is the largest forest in the region, providing hundreds of kilometers of paths, cycle routes, and bridleways. It's an excellent destination for hiking, cycling, or horseback riding, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the extensive woodland.
Are there any war history sites near Bavay?
Yes, for those interested in war history, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery in Bavay contains graves of soldiers from World War II. Additionally, about 10.5 km from Bavay, you can visit Fort de Leveau, one of six forts built to protect Maubeuge, which now houses a museum largely dedicated to the First World War.
What is the Circuit des Sources?
The Circuit des Sources is a hiking trail in and around Bavay that allows visitors to explore local heritage sites. Along this trail, you can discover traditional lavoirs (washhouses) and a bridge, offering a glimpse into the region's past and local culture.
What is the significance of the Emile Verhaeren Stone?
The Emile Verhaeren Stone is a monument dedicated to the Belgian author Emile Verhaeren. You can find several stones in the area engraved with verses from his works, such as "Admire man and admire the earth, and you will live fervently and brightly." Verhaeren was a significant figure in Symbolism and his work often reflected the local landscape.
What is the best time of year to visit Bavay for outdoor activities?
While Bavay can be enjoyed year-round, the spring and autumn months are generally ideal for outdoor activities. Spring brings blooming nature to parks like Les Jardins de la Grange, while autumn offers pleasant temperatures and beautiful foliage in areas like the Forest of Mormal and the Parc Naturel Régional de l'Avesnois, perfect for hiking and cycling.
Most popular attractions around Bavay
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