Nestled in the meandering Molignée River, Sosoye reveals itself as one of the Condroz’s most beautiful gems. This village, where limestone houses stand in elegant rows, seems guarded by the protective silhouette of Ranzinelle Mountain. From the imposing 17th-century Grange aux Dîmes tothe old “little devils” school, every stone tells the story of rural life of yesteryear. But Sosoye is also a paradise for visitors seeking an escape. Between hiking up its limestone hillsides and taking an unusual stroll along the old railway line toward Maredsous Abbey, let yourself be charmed by this natural setting, wherecontemporary art and local cuisine come together for an unforgettable getaway.
The timeless landmarks of Sosoye
The village of Sosoye charms with its architectural unity, where local limestone reigns for eternity. In the center of the hamlet, on a small promontory,the Church of the Nativity, built in 1764, watches over the inhabitants. This classic building, listed since 1975, houses furnishings of surprising richness. Just a few steps away, the rectory andthe old school extend this atmosphere of days gone by. One can notably spot a touching detail: the last schoolteacher immortalized his “little devils” playing in the courtyard, frozen in stone.
The true highlight of Sosoye remains the famous Grange aux Dîmes, dating from 1646. An imposing silhouette with a red-orange roof, it stands in stark contrast to the gray of the neighboring facades. This building was once used to store the “tithe,” collected forthe Abbey of Saint-Gérard de Brogne. On these buildings, the “stones of anticipation ” symbolized the owners’ hope of expanding their homes, leaving a promise of the future etched into the village’s history.
A wild setting nestled between mountains and valleys
Beyond its limestone, Sosoye draws its character from its rugged terrain. The Montagne de Ranzinelle, which overlooks the village, offers an almost alpine feel, earning the locals the nickname “Montagnards.” This natural site, designated a state reserve, is home to a rare biological treasure: cool meadows where wild orchids bloom anddazzling wildlife thrives. The 2.7-km Interpretive Trail, meanwhile, offers breathtaking views of the meandering Molignée River before descending back to the heart of the village.
The escape continues to the unique rhythm of the Molignée handcars onthe old railway line that crosses the village, leading toMaredsous Abbey. After the exertion, comfort is found on the plate: from local specialties at the “Les Montagnards” tavern to the famous cheeses and beers of the neighboring abbey. This journey concludes on an artistic note with the “Six Steps to Art ” trail, proving that here, art, nature, and the local terroir are one and the same.
