Nestled in a lush green valley, Ragnies stands out as one of the Walloon countryside’s best-kept secrets. Bathed by the Marais stream, this picturesque village invites you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. From its listed Romanesque church to its elegant castle and majestic farmhouses dating back to the former abbey, heritage is on display at every turn. But the village also thrives on a unique way of life: from medieval events at the Ferme du Chêne to the greens of its golf course, not to mention the famous Biercée Distillery. Set off on a bucolic getaway where history and the good life come together!
An open-air museum: the centuries-old heritage of Ragnies
The center of Ragnies reveals an architectural heritage of striking rarity. The true heart of the village,the Church of Saint-Martin—listed since 1936—proudly preserves a 12th-century Romanesque tower and nave, extended by a Gothic choir. Inside, the magic unfolds as you discover authentic 17th-century Baroque choir stalls, a matching pair of which is preserved in England. Just a few steps away, Château Mascart stands out with its Baroque-inspired style, elegantly bearing witness to the village’s past wealth.
The true pride of the “Ragnicoles” lies in these imposing limestone farmsteads that dot the landscape. Owned for more than nine centuries by the powerful Lobbes Abbey, the land of Ragnies saw the rise of veritable miniature villages. La Ferme de la Cour, which once housed a court of justice and a tithe barn, is the most majestic example of this. From La Ferme Rose to La Ferme du Chêne, these historic farmsteads continue to shapethe unique visual identity of this exceptional region.
Artisanal flavors and local festivities: the Belgian way of life
Bathed by the Marais Stream, Ragnies is surrounded by rural landscapes with gentle, evocative names: Blanchamps, Cocriamont, and Gravelotte. It is in this idyllic setting that a vibrant local life flourishes, driven by the authentic charm of the Ferme du Chêne. This ancient medieval site comes alive throughout the year with themed festivals and tastings, bringingthe medieval spirit of the place back to life, much to the delight of families andhistory buffs alike.
But the village’s must-see attraction remains, without a doubt, the Ferme de la Cour, now home to the prestigious Biercée Distillery. As the country’s only distillery to produce premium brandies, liqueurs, and gins from fresh, untreated fruit, it invites you to discover its secrets right in the heart of its historic buildings. With artisanal tastings, living heritage, and walks in the countryside, Ragnies offers an enchanting getaway just a few kilometers from the famous hanging gardens of Thuin.
