Explore the Hidden Gems of Écaussinnes, Belgium

Welcome to Écaussinnes, a charming city in Belgium, located just 20 miles from the capital, Brussels. Despite being a lesser-known destination, this city has plenty to offer for tourists who are looking for a rustic and peaceful experience away from the bustling city life. Whether you are a history buff, nature lover, or an art enthusiast, Écaussinnes has something for everyone. In this tour guide, we will introduce you to some of the must-visit tourist attractions in the city.

Château fort d'Ecaussines-Lalaing

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Écaussinnes is the Château fort d'Ecaussines-Lalaing. This 14th-century castle was once the residence of the Lalaing family and served as a military base during the World War I. Today, it has been converted into a museum where visitors can explore the castle's history and admire the stunning architecture. The castle also hosts cultural events and exhibitions throughout the year, making it a must-visit destination for tourists in Écaussinnes. Website

Parc Pater

If you are a nature lover, then Parc Pater should be on your list of attractions to visit in Écaussinnes. This beautiful park is located in the heart of the city and is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with family and friends. The park has a lake, a playground for children, and several walking trails that take you through the lush greenery, providing stunning views of the surroundings. Website

Canal du Centre historique

The Canal du Centre historique is a UNESCO World Heritage site and an engineering marvel that is worth a visit for tourists in Écaussinnes. This canal, which was built in the 19th century, connects Brussels to the industrial towns of Charleroi and Mons, making it an essential waterway for commerce. Visitors can take a boat tour down the canal and learn about its history and significance in the region. Website

Dom Rénove

For tourists interested in art and architecture, Dom Rénove is a unique attraction in Écaussinnes. This former church has been converted into an art gallery where visitors can admire the stunning stained glass windows and sculptures created by local artists. The gallery also hosts art exhibitions and workshops throughout the year, making it a great destination for art enthusiasts.

Parc de la Marlière

If you are looking for a place to relax and unwind, then Parc de la Marlière is a must-visit destination in Écaussinnes. This city park is located in the outskirts of the city and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The park has several walking trails, a lake, and a playground for children, making it a great destination for families and nature lovers.

Tunnel des Amoureux

The Tunnel des Amoureux is a historical landmark in Écaussinnes that is worth a visit for tourists interested in history and culture. This tunnel, which was built in the 19th century, was once used by miners to transport coal from the nearby mines. Today, it is a popular destination for couples and has a romantic legend associated with it. According to the legend, if two lovers walk through the tunnel together, their love will last forever.

Ascenseur N°2 - Ancien canal du Centre

Another engineering marvel in Écaussinnes is the Ancien canal du Centre, which has four boat lifts that allow boats to travel up and down a steep incline. The Ascenseur N°2 is one of these boat lifts and is an impressive sight to behold. Visitors can take a guided tour of the boat lift and learn about its history and significance in the region. Website

Strépy-Thieu Boat Lift

The Strépy-Thieu Boat Lift is another boat lift in the Ancien canal du Centre that is worth a visit for tourists in Écaussinnes. This boat lift is the tallest in the world, and its engineering is a testament to human ingenuity. Visitors can take a boat tour of the canal and pass through the boat lift, making it an unforgettable experience for tourists of all ages. Website

Parc Julos Beaucarne

The Parc Julos Beaucarne, formerly known as the Parc du souvenir, is a memorial park dedicated to the victims of World War I. The park has several monuments and sculptures that pay homage to the soldiers who lost their lives in the war. It is also a great destination for nature lovers as it has several walking trails that take you through the park's lush greenery.

Aurige

Aurige is a beautiful garden in Écaussinnes that is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a picnic with family and friends. The garden has several fountains, sculptures, and a beautiful pond that provides stunning views of the surroundings. It is a great destination for tourists interested in art and architecture.

Château de Louvignies

The Château de Louvignies is a stunning castle located just a few miles from Écaussinnes. The castle, which was built in the 16th century, has a beautiful garden and several rooms that have been restored to their original splendor. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its history and significance in the region. Website

Other Attractions

In addition to the above-mentioned tourist attractions, there are several other destinations that are worth a visit in Écaussinnes. These include:

• Pont cassé: a historical landmark that dates back to the 14th century.
• Vue aérienne du mont coupé: a beautiful hill that offers stunning views of the city.
• Lift No. 1 Old Canal Du Center: another boat lift in the Ancien canal du Centre that is worth a visit.
• George Price Memorial: a museum dedicated to the Canadian soldiers who lost their lives in World War II.
• Wood Men: a beautiful garden that has several sculptures created by local artists.
• Le Petit Train de La Louvière: a miniature train that takes visitors through the city's most popular destinations.
• Château de Seneffe: a stunning 18th-century estate that has been converted into a museum of silverware.
• Lejeune / Benjamin: a beautiful garden that has several fountains, sculptures, and a beautiful pond.
• Église Saint-Remy d'Ecaussinnes: a beautiful church that dates back to the 12th century.
• Dog park: a great destination for dog owners who are traveling with their pets.
• Mining Site Bois-du-Luc: a museum that provides insight into the region's mining history.
• Ferme pédagogique Les Grées du Lo: a farm where visitors can interact with farm animals and learn about agriculture.
• Fontaines: a beautiful fountain that serves as a popular meeting spot for locals.
• Lift No. 4 Old Canal Du Center: another boat lift in the Ancien canal du Centre.
• Les Ânes de Sylvie: a children's amusement center that has several activities for kids of all ages.
• Moulin Banal: a windmill that dates back to the 18th century.
• Keramis Center of Ceramics: a museum that houses a collection of ceramics created by local artists.
• Château de La Follie: a stunning castle that dates back to the 16th century.
• Rond-point à caillou: a beautiful park that has several walking trails and a playground for children.
• Place jules m: a beautiful square that has several cafes and restaurants.
• La Tour Valenciennoise: a historic tower that dates back to the 13th century.
• Noir Artist: a gallery that showcases the works of local artists.
• Fontaine: a beautiful fountain that serves as a popular meeting spot for locals.
• Wagon commémoratif: a memorial wagon that pays homage to the victims of the Holocaust.
• Place de la louve: a beautiful square that has several cafes and restaurants.

Conclusion

Écaussinnes may be a small and lesser-known destination in Belgium, but it has plenty to offer for tourists who are looking for an authentic and peaceful experience. From stunning castles and museums to beautiful parks and gardens, this city has something for everyone. We hope this tour guide has inspired you to visit Écaussinnes and explore the hidden gems of this charming city.