Top 9 Lakes around Masny

The lakes around Masny are unique due to their industrial heritage, often formed from former mining sites that have been transformed into natural and recreational spaces. A prime example is Étang des Argales, which was created from a subsided slag heap, now offering a blend of history and nature.

The lakes offer a variety of outdoor activities. At Étang des Argales, you can enjoy cycling, hiking, mountain biking, and gravel biking on flat, easy trails. During summer, designated areas allow swimming, kayaking, and sailing. For more specific routes, you can explore options for gravel biking, running, and hiking in the region.

Yes, several lakes are family-friendly. Étang des Argales offers easy trails suitable for all ages, and during summer, it has a supervised swimming area with an artificial beach at Terril des Argales Beach. Parc Jacques Vernier is another excellent choice, with over 40 hectares of greenery, manicured gardens, and peaceful ponds perfect for family strolls and picnics.

Swimming is permitted in designated, supervised areas at Étang des Argales, typically during the summer months (July and August, from 2 PM to 6 PM). This area includes an artificial beach, making it a popular spot for cooling off.

Yes, fishing is allowed in a limited area of Étang des Argales. Visitors must hold a federal fishing permit. Common fish species include carp, roach, pike, perch, rudd, and tench.

The lakes, particularly Étang des Argales and Oisy-le-Verger Marshes, are havens for wildlife. Étang des Argales is known for over a hundred different bird species, and you might also spot lizards on the shale and water hens along the banks. Oisy-le-Verger Marshes also offer a beautiful environment for nature observation among its ponds and woods.

The trails around Étang des Argales are generally well-maintained, with some routes suitable for families and even ADA accessible options like the Friendship Loop, which includes a picnic area. This makes it accessible for a wide range of visitors.

Dogs are welcome on the trails around Étang des Argales, but they must be kept on a leash. This allows pet owners to enjoy the natural surroundings with their companions.

The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Summer (July and August) is ideal for swimming and water activities at Étang des Argales. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking, cycling, and wildlife observation, with vibrant natural scenery. The trails are suitable for use in all seasons.

For breathtaking views, visit the observation post on the terril at Étang des Argales, which offers a 360-degree panorama. It's an ideal spot for picnics amidst nature. Parc Jacques Vernier also provides an oasis of tranquility with manicured gardens and peaceful ponds, perfect for relaxation and picnics.

Étang des Argales has a fascinating history, having been formed from a former mining site. The immense weight of a slag heap (terril) caused the ground to subside, creating this vast body of water. The site underwent significant 'renaturation' in the 1990s, transforming it into the recreational and natural preservation area it is today. You can learn more about the terril's history at coeur-ostrevent-tourisme.fr.