Top 5 Natural Monuments around Saint-Waast
Best natural monuments around Saint-Waast are situated within the Avesnois Regional Nature Park, an area characterized by rolling landscapes, groves, fields, and forests. This region in the Nord department of France offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The park encompasses vast expanses of meadow, farmland, and diverse ecosystems, providing opportunities to experience the region's natural riches. Its highest point reaches 143 meters, with several streams flowing through.
Best natural monuments around Saint-Waast
- The most popular natural monuments…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Le Caillou-qui-Bique
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A little step back in time... …
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Bois d'Angre
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Trees with mistletoe
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The white, berry-like fruit is spread by birds. …
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Quélipont Waterfall
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GR121C
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Tips from the Community
Very nice little spot at the bend of a jogging
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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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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 unique geological features can I find among the natural monuments near Saint-Waast?
The region is home to fascinating geological formations, most notably Le Caillou-qui-Bique. This 25-meter-high 'pudding rock' is approximately 370 million years old and is composed of fragments of various natural elements, making it a distinctive landmark.
Are there any legends or historical stories associated with the natural monuments?
Yes, Le Caillou-qui-Bique is steeped in local folklore. A legend tells of an angel warning Saint-Ghislain of the devil's plan to destroy his abbey with this enormous stone. The devil, tricked by Saint-Ghislain, dropped the stone in frustration, creating the monument we see today.
What kind of flora and fauna can I expect to see in the natural monuments around Saint-Waast?
The Bois d'Angre is particularly rich in biodiversity, featuring a variety of oaks, ash trees, and other rare species. It's a precious natural site managed for its unique fauna and flora. You might also spot mistletoe, an evergreen semi-parasite, on trees in the forest areas, as highlighted by Trees with mistletoe.
Are the natural monuments around Saint-Waast suitable for family visits?
Many natural monuments in the area are family-friendly. For instance, the Bois d'Angre offers numerous walking trails suitable for all ages, and Quélipont Waterfall is a refreshing and accessible spot for families to enjoy.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments around Saint-Waast?
The region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore running trails, such as those found in the Running Trails around Saint-Waast guide, or enjoy mountain biking on routes like those in the MTB Trails around Saint-Waast guide. Cycling is also popular, with options detailed in the Cycling around Saint-Waast guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments near Saint-Waast?
The natural monuments can be enjoyed year-round. During warmer months, sites like Quélipont Waterfall offer a refreshing escape. The forests, such as Bois d'Angre, are beautiful in spring with new growth, vibrant in autumn with changing leaves, and offer crisp, clean air in winter.
Are there hiking trails near the natural monuments?
Yes, the area provides several hiking opportunities. The Bois d'Angre features numerous walking trails. Additionally, sections of the GR®121C, a long-distance trail, pass through natural areas, offering scenic routes for hikers. You can find more detailed routes in the Running Trails around Saint-Waast guide, which often include walking paths.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the natural monuments in this region?
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The unique geological formations like Le Caillou-qui-Bique, the rich biodiversity of Bois d'Angre, and the serene beauty of Quélipont Waterfall are highly rated. The community has contributed over 70 photos and more than 200 upvotes, reflecting a strong appreciation for these sites.
What is the Avesnois Regional Nature Park like, where these monuments are located?
The Avesnois Regional Nature Park, where Saint-Waast is situated, is characterized by rolling landscapes, groves, fields, and forests. It encompasses vast expanses of meadow, farmland, peat bogs, plateaus, plains, and valleys, offering diverse ecosystems and opportunities to breathe in clean forest air. It's an ideal setting for experiencing the region's natural riches.
How can I access the natural monuments around Saint-Waast?
The natural monuments are generally accessible within the Avesnois Regional Nature Park. Many sites, like Le Caillou-qui-Bique and Bois d'Angre, are located along paths and trails. While specific public transport details vary, the park is well-suited for exploration by car, with parking often available near popular trailheads and attractions.
Are there any waterfalls to visit near Saint-Waast?
Yes, you can visit Quélipont Waterfall, a pretty waterfall nestled within a forest. It's known as a refreshing place to visit, especially during warmer months, and offers a picturesque spot for a break during your explorations.
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