Top 6 Lakes around Valenciennes
Lakes around Valenciennes offer diverse natural landscapes in northern France. The region features various ponds and lakes, many of which originated from historical activities like gravel extraction or mining subsidence. These bodies of water are often surrounded by green areas, providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. Valenciennes' proximity to these sites makes them accessible for local exploration and nature appreciation.
Best lakes around Valenciennes
- The most popular lakes is Goriaux Pond, a lake that allows visitors to land and soak their feet in the water. It is a mining subsidence pond and a national biological reserve since 1982.
- Another must-see spot is Étang Chabaud-Latour, a lake recognized as a rich natural site. Many bird species stop there during migration or reside there year-round, offering idyllic landscapes at the water's edge.
- Visitors also love Vineyard Pond, a large pond created from an old gravel pit in the 20th century. It is surrounded by a green area and offers recreational activities like hiking, biking, and canoeing, with a circuit around 4 km.
- Valenciennes is known for its natural and artificial lakes, including former gravel pits and mining subsidence ponds. These sites provide a variety of settings for walks, wildlife observation, and water-based activities.
- The lakes around Valenciennes are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 140 upvotes and more than 70 photos shared across 6 highlights.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Goriaux Pond
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Vineyard Pond
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Vineyard Lake
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The tour of the lake is about 4 km, which represents 1 hour of stroll. There are many facilities for relaxing or playing sports.
The lake is located on the edge of the Scheldt, and some places there are only a few meters of land between them.
As everywhere in and around Valenciennes, the decor alternates between old industrial installations, nature which has taken over these rights.
To discover !
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Étang Chabaud-Latour
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Boardwalks
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Peaceful little pond
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View of the pond
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View of the Mare à Goriaux
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Tips from the Community
great route organized by the tourist office this Sunday, June 15, 2025, with stops at interesting places of passage (bird viewpoint, headframe, Conde monuments)
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Nice viewpoint for a photo of the setting sun with its reflections on the pond.
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An easy 8 km hike around a beautiful pond. Lots of birds.
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The Lac du Vignoble is a beautiful lake located in Valenciennes, about two kilometers southwest of the central city area. The lake is surrounded by a green area and offers many recreational activities such as hiking, biking, canoeing, and more. The tour around is about 4 km.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular lakes for recreation near Valenciennes?
Among the most popular lakes are Vineyard Pond, known for hiking, biking, and canoeing with a 4 km circuit, and Étang Chabaud-Latour, which offers beautiful scenery and a 7 km walk around its perimeter. Goriaux Pond is also a favorite, allowing visitors to soak their feet and enjoy views from a nearby slag heap.
Which lakes near Valenciennes are suitable for swimming?
The closest option for swimming is
Étang du Pont Rouge in Le Quesnoy, approximately 14.2 km from Valenciennes. Its water quality is consistently rated as very good.
Are there family-friendly lakes around Valenciennes?
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Étang Chabaud-Latour features a children's park and a well-appointed walk around the lake. Vineyard Pond is also family-friendly, offering a green area for various recreational activities.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes?
Étang Chabaud-Latour is a significant stopover point for many bird species during migration, with some residing there year-round, making it excellent for birdwatching. Goriaux Pond is a national biological reserve, indicating a rich natural habitat for various species.
Can I go hiking or biking around the lakes near Valenciennes?
Absolutely. Vineyard Pond offers well-maintained paths for hiking and biking with a circuit of about 4 km. Étang Chabaud-Latour also has a 7 km circuit perfect for walks. For more detailed routes, you can explore the hiking guide or cycling guide for Valenciennes.
Are there easy walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, many lakes offer easy walking options. The Étang du Vignoble Loop is an easy 4.5 km hike. The Étang Chabaud-Latour also has an easy 7 km loop. You can find more easy routes in the easy hikes guide for Valenciennes.
What is the origin of the lakes in the Valenciennes region?
Many lakes in the Valenciennes area have interesting origins. For example, Vineyard Pond was created from an old gravel pit in the 20th century. Goriaux Pond is a mining subsidence pond, formed when three smaller ponds joined together around 1930 due to significant mining subsidence.
Are there any unique features or viewpoints at the lakes?
At Goriaux Pond, you can get a view from above from an accessible slag heap. The Boardwalks offer a unique way to experience a pond, allowing you to walk directly over the water and rest.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Valenciennes?
Visitors frequently praise the idyllic landscapes and the peaceful atmosphere. Many enjoy the well-maintained paths for walking, running, and biking, as well as the opportunities for wildlife observation, especially birdwatching at sites like Étang Chabaud-Latour. The ability to relax by the water, such as soaking feet at Goriaux Pond, is also highly valued.
Is there a lake that offers a more secluded or natural experience?
Yes, as you walk through the Raismes-Saint-Amand-Wallers Forest, you can discover a Peaceful little pond. These smaller, often unnamed ponds reflect the trees and sky, offering a tranquil and natural setting away from more developed areas.
Are the lakes accessible year-round?
Yes, many of the lakes, such as Vineyard Pond, are accessible year-round, allowing visitors to enjoy the changing seasons and outdoor activities regardless of the time of year.
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