In the heart of the province of Hainaut, Thuin stands out as one of Wallonia’s best-kept secrets. This fortified town, split in two by the water, captivates every visitor with its tranquil cobblestone streets. A captivating journey awaits the curious through this city’s fascinating past, as you discover spectacular ramparts and a majestic belfry listed by UNESCO. The adventure continues with a leisurely stroll through lush terraces, before venturing into the wilderness. Between history, pastoral walks, and nostalgia aboard a historic tram, prepare to fall under the spell of this unique destination.
Thuin: a historical immersion in the medieval city
Upon arrival, the journey begins along the waterfront, where your steps naturally lead you to the Lower Town, the former boatmen’s quarter. Along the Sambre River, the towpaths serve as a reminder that Thuin was once a vibrant hub of riverboat transport. To discoverthe city’s medieval soul, you must leave the riverbanks and cross a pedestrian bridge to beginthe ascent of the ramparts, after a stop atthe eco-museum aboard an authentic barge.
Climbing the picturesque stairs from Rue Longue, which wind past the Chapel of Our Lady of Lourdes, you enter a veritable fortress frozen in time. The cobblestone streets then lead to Place du Chapitre, dominated by the majestic Thuin Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is here, at the heart of these ancient stones steeped in history, that the pulse of a thousand-year-old city beats, coming alive in spectacular fashion each year during the famous Saint-Roch processions.
Hanging gardens and old-fashioned tracks: the gentle way of life in the Sambre Valley
A unique botanical surprise in Wallonia awaits walkers along the Rempart du Midi: the famous hanging gardens. Born alongside the medieval fortifications, these terraced gardens cling tothe rocky outcrop in absolute tranquility. This unusual heritage now serves as the backdrop for a unique journey, highlighted by the vineyards of the Clos des Zouaves. After savoring this unique panorama, a refreshing dip is a must in the shade of the Bois du Grand Bon Dieu, before heading back down to the banks of the Biesmelle.
The journey continues in an equally nostalgic vein as you board the tracks of the Vicinal Tram Museum. For a weekend, you can hop aboard a genuine historic tram for a ride through the countryside. For lovers of the great outdoors, the RAVeL and towpaths offer perfect getaways along the manual locks of the Sambre or toward Landelies, where the majestic ruins of Aulne Abbey stand. An ideal bucolic escape to round out this timeless getaway.
