The nature reserve of Lake Virelles is the starting point of this beautiful walk through the forest of Blaimont. This family walk takes you into a peaceful nature, far away from all noise and hectic daily life.
Distance: 7 km.
Time: 2h00.
Grade: Easy.
Type: Circular.
Gps Track: Yes.
Route description: Yes.
Wheelchair: Not suitable.
Dog: Allowed.
Height gain: 135 meters.
Trail: Paved and unpaved.
Marking: Blue diamond.
Hiking shoes recommended.
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The lake of Virelles
At the end of the walk you can visit the Aquascope of Lake Virelles (nature center with observation of birds and underwater life, restaurant and exhibition of natural sciences). Nearby Chimay will seduce you with its historic center and its beautiful castle that is open to the public. The Chimay region is best known for the Trappist Abbey of Notre-Dame de Scourmont and for the Trappist beers brewed there.
Download PDf for route description.
Comfortable walking shoes, rain gear and water..
Roads may be temporarily closed during the hunting season (autumn). Please consult the information panels on site!
POI 1 - Virelles Nature Reserve.
In contrast to how things work in a zoo, the Aquascope in Virelles lets you discover 'real nature' in a playful way. The visit is renewed several times a year, as nature changes every season, and with it, what there is to see. The aim is to amaze visitors with the beauty of nature around them, thus encouraging them to protect nature themselves. Thanks to the live cameras, you can observe birds with complete discretion, whether on the pond or in the nest boxes. Every year the site also receives the only pair of white storks in Wallonia that makes its nest in the great outdoors. The Aquascope aims to reconcile tourism, nature conservation and knowledge about nature and the environment in the nature reserve.
Syndicat d’Initiative de Chimay.
www.si-chimay.be.
POI 2 - Chimay abbey.
The nearby Cistercian abbey of Notre-Dame de Scourmont is famous for its Trappist beer. During the summer of 1850 a small group of monks settled on the wild highlands of Scourmont near Chimay. A farm, a brewery and a cheese factory are built around the monastery. The Abbey of Scourmont was at the cradle of various economic activities, triggering regional development.
Chimay abbey.
www.chimay.com.be.