The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Avesnois
4.4
(4485)
21,635
hikers
287
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Avesnois traverse a varied landscape characterized by hedged farmland, rolling countryside, and extensive deciduous forests. The region, largely defined by the Avesnois Regional Natural Park, features clear-flowing streams, meandering rivers, and notable waterways like the Sambre canal and Val-Joly Lake. Hikers will find a network of marked trails winding through these diverse natural features, offering options for various abilities.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Avesnois
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Walk…
Last updated: May 18, 2026
4.3
(30)
106
hikers
10.3km
02:43
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(31)
107
hikers
11.0km
02:55
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(25)
106
hikers
10.7km
02:50
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(19)
62
hikers
4.76km
01:13
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(77)
430
hikers
19.3km
05:16
290m
290m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Wallen Garden in Le Quesnoy is a beautiful park designed around the historic fortifications of the city. It offers a peaceful and serene environment for walking and relaxing. The Wallen Garden is a relatively new addition to the city, designed to embrace the historic fortifications and integrate them into a green, accessible space. The park is a symbol of the combination of nature and history. The park is designed with a focus on natural materials and landscaping that harmonizes with the historic fortifications. It offers several walking paths that surround the city walls and provide access to the fortified bastions and gateways.
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The fortifications of Le Quesnoy date back to the Middle Ages and were further strengthened in the 17th century under the direction of the famous military engineer Vauban. These fortifications were necessary to protect the city from attacks and sieges. The fortifications have been declassified since 1901, but they are still well maintained. The remparts are designed in a Renaissance style with heavily fortified walls and gateways. They are built of brick and stone, which is typical of the military architecture of that period. The fortifications include several bastions, such as the Porte Faurœulx and the Bastion Vert, which are strategically placed to protect the city.
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The Jardin de la Paix Belge was created in 2018 by the collective artist group Plan B, consisting of Thomas Van Eeckhout and Mathieu Allain. The park is located in the fortifications of Le Quesnoy and is a symbol of peace and memory. The park was designed with a concept in which part of the city walls of Le Quesnoy is projected horizontally onto a lawn. The walls, originally 12 meters high, are now terraces that offer a peaceful place for walks and reflection. The use of brick and natural materials, such as engraved stones, emphasizes the historical and cultural ties between the regions.
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The Porte Faurœulx is part of the fortified city walls built between the 15th and 17th centuries. These walls were built to protect the city from attacks and sieges. The gate itself dates from this period and is a remnant of the military architecture of the time. The gate is designed in a Renaissance style with strongly fortified walls and gateways strategically placed to protect the city. It has a circular plan and is built of brick and stone, which is typical of the military architecture of the period.
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This large artificial lake is a superb hiking spot. The tour of the lake is a route of approximately 16 kilometers, allowing you to discover the banks of the lake and the Helpe Majeure river, through beautiful meadows and the Abbé-Val-Joly national forest.
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This large artificial lake is a superb hiking spot. The tour of the lake is a route of approximately 16 kilometers, allowing you to discover the banks of the lake and the Helpe Majeure river, through beautiful meadows and the Abbé-Val-Joly national forest.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Avesnois?
Avesnois offers a fantastic network for families, with over 200 hiking routes suitable for various skill levels. Among these, you'll find nearly 90 easy trails, perfect for outings with children.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Avesnois?
The Avesnois region, often called 'La Petite Suisse du Nord,' features diverse and family-friendly terrain. You'll encounter rolling countryside, hedged farmland (bocage), peaceful meadows, and extensive deciduous forests. Many trails follow clear-flowing streams and rivers, offering picturesque views without overly challenging ascents.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, Avesnois has several easy circular options. For a gentle and historically interesting walk, consider the Circuit of the Ramparts of Le Quesnoy. This route is relatively flat and allows you to explore the historic fortifications of Le Quesnoy, which are also home to the Le Quesnoy Ramparts.
What are some notable natural features or attractions we can see on family hikes?
Avesnois is rich in natural beauty and cultural landmarks. You can explore vast forests like Mormal, Trélon, and Fourmies, or enjoy the tranquility of waterways. Grand Fayt Mill is a charming historical site, and the town of Le Quesnoy itself offers historical insights. Many trails also pass through charming villages with traditional bluestone houses.
Are there any trails that follow old railway lines, suitable for a very easy walk?
Yes, the region is known for the Sentier du Petit Train (Little Train Trail), which is an easy path along an old railway track. This type of trail is generally flat and well-suited for families, offering a smooth experience through forests and meadows.
Can we find trails near water, like lakes or rivers, for family enjoyment?
Absolutely. The Avesnois landscape is shaped by numerous streams and rivers, and the Sambre canal is a notable feature. Val-Joly Lake is a significant natural attraction, providing a tranquil setting and opportunities for water activities. While the Val Joly Dam – Lake Val-Joly loop from Willies is a longer, more difficult hike, the lake area itself offers many shorter, family-friendly paths and activities.
What do other hikers enjoy most about family-friendly trails in Avesnois?
The Avesnois region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 4,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet, well-maintained paths, the beautiful forest scenery, and the charming villages encountered along the way, making it a perfect destination for family outings.
Are there any specific trails that offer good viewpoints or scenic overlooks?
Many trails in Avesnois wind through rolling countryside and forests, offering lovely views of the hedged farmland (bocage) and valleys. While specific 'viewpoints' might not be signposted as such, routes like the Caillou-qui-Bique loop from Eth provide varied landscapes and open vistas across the Hauts-Pays natural park.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Avesnois?
Avesnois is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for family hikes. In spring, the deciduous forests burst with new growth, and in autumn, the foliage offers spectacular colors. Summer is also great, especially for trails near water, but be mindful of warmer temperatures. Winter walks can be magical, though some paths might be muddy.
Are there any trails that follow the Grande Honnelle river?
Yes, the Grande Honnelle river offers lovely routes for families. You can enjoy a pleasant Walk along the Grande Honnelle, or opt for a circular option with the Hike along the Grande Honnelle — loop from Gussignies, which provides a comprehensive experience of the river's surroundings.
Where can I find more information about the Avesnois Regional Natural Park?
For more detailed information about the Avesnois Regional Natural Park, its mission, and its natural heritage, you can visit the official tourism website: tourisme-avesnois.com. It provides valuable context about this significant biodiversity reserve.
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