Attractions and Places To See around Serques - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Serques offer a blend of natural landscapes and historical sites within the Audomarois marsh. This region is characterized by its extensive marshland, featuring numerous canals and unique boat-accessible houses. Visitors can explore a variety of points of interest, from historical monuments to significant natural reserves. The area provides opportunities to discover its distinctive environment and cultural heritage.
Best attractions and places to see around Serques
- The most popular attractions is Watten Hill,…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Romelaëre Ponds Nature Reserve
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Watten Hill
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Saint-Omer station
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Saint-Omer Cathedral
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Boat Lift of Fontinettes
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After being closed for several years, the Saint-Omer train station has been given a facelift. The new, completely renovated building is dedicated to travelers, of course, but also to artists, craftspeople, entrepreneurs… La Station isn't just a station; it's "a space for innovation with a station inside." (c) https://nl.tourisme-saintomer.com/verwonderend/erfgoed-wonderen/meesterwerken-bewonderen/het-station-een-station-en-een-plaats-voor-innovatie/
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nature reserve where you can take a short circular walk (1 hour) and go to the observatory
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Worth seeing small boat lift.
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ship lift from 1888 can be visited as a museum, see www.ascenseurabataux.com with interesting audio tour
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A midweek walk in March, outside of school holidays. Few people. A joy.
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Located in Saint-Omer, France, the Gare de Saint-Omer has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. The first version of the station opened on September 1, 1848, as part of the railway line from Lille to Calais. The original building was modest and located outside the city walls, between the Porte de Lyzel and the Porte du Haut-Pont. In 1904, a new, monumental station building was inaugurated, designed by the architect Clément Ligny. This building, with its neoclassical architecture, was built with high-quality materials such as blue stone from Soignies and white stone from Creil. The design reflects the grandeur of a 17th-century castle, complete with symmetrical pavilions and decorative elements such as triglyphs and pediments.
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This cathedral, the former "Cloître Notre-Dame" of the canons, is the most beautiful religious building in the region. The shape and dimensions are impressive. The choir dates from 1200, the transept from the 13th century, the nave from the 14th-15th century. The 50 m high facade tower is decorated with vertical blind arches and crowned with watchtowers (15th century). On the middle buttress of the southern portal there is a statue of the Virgin Mary (14th century), and on the tympanum a Last Judgement with very few chosen ones. In the corner next to the choir there is an octagonal Romanesque tower.
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You will see the tomb of St. Audomarus and the mausoleum of Eustache de Croy, chapter provost in Saint-Omer and bishop of Arras, a moving work by Jacques Dubroeucq (16th century). He shows the deceased kneeling, in bishop's robes, but also lying down and naked, as in classical antiquity. Note the 15th-century tombstones with inscriptions and the Descent from the Cross by Rubens (first bay of the right aisle). The tombs are 15th century, the alabaster statues 16th and 17th centuries. Other eye-catchers are the Madonna with cat (right aisle), the statue (13th century) of Notre-Dame des Miracles that attracts pilgrims every September, a Nativity of Christ from the 13th century and the tomb (8th century) of St. Erkembode, abbot of Saint-Bertin - here they leave shoes of children who have difficulty learning to walk. Above the astronomical clock (1558) a jaquemart tolls the hours (transept left). Above it is a rose window in flamboyant style. The statue group Grand Dieu de Thérouanne (13th century) stood 20 m above the portal of the cathedral of Thérouanne, which was destroyed by Charles V. The figures seem distorted, but the artist foreshortened them so that they had the correct perspective from below (transept left).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in and around Serques?
Serques is largely encompassed by the extensive Audomarois Marsh, a primary natural attraction characterized by numerous small canals and rivers like the Muissens and Grand Large. You can also visit the Romelaëre Ponds Nature Reserve, covering 108 hectares with ponds, canals, and diverse flora and fauna. For a gentle walk, the Sentier du Lansbergue offers a 6-kilometer waterside trail through the marsh.
Are there any historical sites or monuments to visit in Serques?
Yes, Serques boasts significant historical landmarks. The Church of Serques (Église Saint-Omer de Serques) dates back to at least the 12th century and features a 17th-century high altar and a 16th-century oak sculpture of the 'Virgin and Child Jesus.' You can also see the ruins of the Davion Mill (Moulin de Serques), a 1775 structure that stands as a testament to the village's industrial heritage. Further afield, the Boat Lift of Fontinettes is a unique historic hydraulic engineering marvel.
What unique cultural experiences does Serques offer?
A distinctive cultural aspect of the Audomarois marsh in Serques is the presence of isolated houses accessible only by boat. These residents are served by the last postman in France who delivers mail by boat, showcasing a unique way of life tied to the marshland environment.
What outdoor activities are available near Serques?
The serene environment of Serques and its surrounding marshlands are ideal for gentle hikes and enjoying natural scenery. You can find various cycling routes, including road cycling, touring, and gravel biking. For example, explore routes like 'Along the River Aa – Rue du Fort Vesques loop from Serques' for touring bikes or 'Lansberghe Path – Chestnut tree bridge loop from Saint-Omer' for gravel biking. More details on these activities can be found in the Cycling around Serques guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the Serques area?
Yes, the Sentier du Lansbergue is an approximately 6-kilometer developed trail suitable for families, including those with strollers and wheelchairs, offering picturesque views of the marsh. The Boat Lift of Fontinettes is also considered family-friendly and offers a fascinating insight into industrial history.
Where can I find panoramic views near Serques?
For panoramic views, head to Watten Hill. This summit, at 72 meters, offers expansive views of the city and its surroundings, including the Aa valley and the Flemish plain. It's also home to a restored mill and abbey ruins.
Is the Romelaëre Ponds Nature Reserve accessible for everyone?
The Romelaëre Ponds Nature Reserve features a natural setting with a stream that can be crossed by a chain ferry. While it offers beautiful walks, it's important to note that dogs are generally not allowed in the reserve. The Sentier du Lansbergue, however, is specifically designed to be accessible for strollers and wheelchairs.
What is the best way to experience the Audomarois Marsh?
The best way to experience the Audomarois Marsh is by exploring its numerous small canals and waterways. Consider walking the Sentier du Lansbergue for a waterside perspective or engaging in cycling activities on routes that traverse the marshland. Some areas also offer boat tours to see the unique boat-accessible houses.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Serques?
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquil natural beauty of the Audomarois marsh, the unique cultural aspects like the boat-accessible houses, and the historical significance of sites like the Church of Serques. The Romelaëre Ponds Nature Reserve is praised for its rich diversity of flora and fauna and its peaceful atmosphere, while Watten Hill is appreciated for its panoramic views.
Are there any specific hiking trails recommended for exploring the marsh?
The Sentier du Lansbergue is a highly recommended approximately 6-kilometer developed trail that allows you to explore the natural heritage of the Serques marsh. It's a waterside path offering picturesque views and is suitable for a leisurely walk.
Can I reach attractions near Serques using public transport?
While Serques itself is a small village, the nearby city of Saint-Omer has a train station, Saint-Omer station, which has been recently renovated and serves as a hub for travelers. From Saint-Omer, local transport options or taxis would likely be needed to reach specific attractions in Serques and the surrounding marshland.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known spots around Serques?
Beyond the main highlights, the Audomarois Marsh itself holds many hidden gems, particularly the areas with isolated houses only accessible by boat, offering a glimpse into a unique way of life. Exploring the smaller 'watergangs' (canals) off the main routes can also reveal serene and untouched corners of the marsh.
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