Perched atop a lush green hill overlooking the Hermeton Valley, the village of Soulme is a true haven of peace, frozen in time. This small village of about fifty houses captivates visitors at first glance with its well-preserved historical heritage. From its majestic 11th-century Romanesque church to its historic, listed watermill, the village preserves precious reminders of its rich feudal and religious past. With its peaceful narrow streets lined with limestone buildings and its wilderness designated as a Natura 2000 site, Soulme stands out as an idyllic destination to explore through its history and the charm of its unique landscapes.
From ancient stones to listed monuments: Soulme’s rich heritage
Soulme’s history dates back to the 11th century, when it became part of the estate of Florennes Abbey. Perched on the hillside, the complex comprisingthe Church of Sainte-Colombe and its walled cemetery forms the historic heart of the village. The church, a listed historic site, features an imposing Romanesque tower originally designed to serve as a fortified refuge. Today, it blends harmoniously with its Gothic-style naves and faces theformer 17th-century presbytery, built of limestone rubble masonry, which overlooks the main street.
At the foot of the village, along the water’s edge, Soulme’s heritage continues with its historic watermill. This listed complex was once a communal mill managed by monks. Intact and perfectly restored, the site retains all of its original mechanisms: its dam, its underground millrace, and its traditional waterwheel. Now transformed into a charming guesthouse, this exceptional place authentically bears witness to the region’s milling heritage.
In the heart of the Hermeton Valley: unspoiled landscapes, hiking, and local specialties
Beyond its history, Soulme captivates with the poetic beauty of its architecture. Perched atop its hill, the village is home to some fifty iconic buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries. Constructed of limestone, these houses and old farmhouses are scattered along serene alleyways. This rocky setting opens onto the Hermeton Valley, one of the region’s last unspoiled valleys. Designated a Natura 2000 site, this exceptional natural area is home to rare flora and fauna, lulled by the murmur of a meandering river.
This unspoiled setting makes Soulme the ideal starting point for lovers of long country walks. Whether on foot or by bike, numerous trails wind through woods and meadows, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Finally, to round out this outdoor getaway, a gourmet stop is a must just outside the village at Ferme Henry Lathuraz, where delicious local products bring to life the inseparable link between Soulme and its local traditions.
