4.4
(4672)
22,539
hikers
649
hikes
Hiking around Avesnes-Sur-Helpe offers diverse natural landscapes within the Nord department of France. The region is largely defined by the Avesnois Regional Natural Park, characterized by woods, groves, and hedged farmlands. The artificial Lac du Val-Joly and the River Helpe Majeure are prominent natural features, providing scenic routes and riverside walks. This area features extensive woodlands and numerous streams, creating varied terrain for outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.2
(29)
123
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.2
(28)
102
hikers
10.3km
02:43
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(29)
103
hikers
11.0km
02:55
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(25)
106
hikers
10.7km
02:50
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.5
(19)
62
hikers
4.76km
01:13
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(14)
25
hikers
8.05km
02:04
40m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.4
(74)
400
hikers
18.7km
05:09
310m
310m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(66)
322
hikers
18.2km
05:01
310m
310m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(38)
254
hikers
7.26km
01:56
80m
80m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(39)
137
hikers
13.0km
03:34
210m
210m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Wallen Garden in Le Quesnoy is a beautiful park designed around the historic fortifications of the city. It offers a peaceful and serene environment for walking and relaxing. The Wallen Garden is a relatively new addition to the city, designed to embrace the historic fortifications and integrate them into a green, accessible space. The park is a symbol of the combination of nature and history. The park is designed with a focus on natural materials and landscaping that harmonizes with the historic fortifications. It offers several walking paths that surround the city walls and provide access to the fortified bastions and gateways.
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The fortifications of Le Quesnoy date back to the Middle Ages and were further strengthened in the 17th century under the direction of the famous military engineer Vauban. These fortifications were necessary to protect the city from attacks and sieges. The fortifications have been declassified since 1901, but they are still well maintained. The remparts are designed in a Renaissance style with heavily fortified walls and gateways. They are built of brick and stone, which is typical of the military architecture of that period. The fortifications include several bastions, such as the Porte Faurœulx and the Bastion Vert, which are strategically placed to protect the city.
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The Jardin de la Paix Belge was created in 2018 by the collective artist group Plan B, consisting of Thomas Van Eeckhout and Mathieu Allain. The park is located in the fortifications of Le Quesnoy and is a symbol of peace and memory. The park was designed with a concept in which part of the city walls of Le Quesnoy is projected horizontally onto a lawn. The walls, originally 12 meters high, are now terraces that offer a peaceful place for walks and reflection. The use of brick and natural materials, such as engraved stones, emphasizes the historical and cultural ties between the regions.
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The Porte Faurœulx is part of the fortified city walls built between the 15th and 17th centuries. These walls were built to protect the city from attacks and sieges. The gate itself dates from this period and is a remnant of the military architecture of the time. The gate is designed in a Renaissance style with strongly fortified walls and gateways strategically placed to protect the city. It has a circular plan and is built of brick and stone, which is typical of the military architecture of the period.
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This large artificial lake is a superb hiking spot. The tour of the lake is a route of approximately 16 kilometers, allowing you to discover the banks of the lake and the Helpe Majeure river, through beautiful meadows and the Abbé-Val-Joly national forest.
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This large artificial lake is a superb hiking spot. The tour of the lake is a route of approximately 16 kilometers, allowing you to discover the banks of the lake and the Helpe Majeure river, through beautiful meadows and the Abbé-Val-Joly national forest.
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The Bois d'Angre, located in Honnelles, is a forest renowned for the Caillou-qui-Bique, a 370 million year old pudding rock. This forest is home to rich biodiversity with oaks, ash trees and various rare species. A place of legends and hikes, the Angre woods is a precious natural site in Wallonia, managed by Natagora and other organizations to preserve its unique fauna and flora.
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The region around Avesnes-sur-Helpe, largely defined by the Avesnois Regional Natural Park, offers diverse terrain. You'll find extensive woodlands, tranquil streams, hedged farmlands, and picturesque groves. Trails often feature gentle ascents and descents, characteristic of the natural park's rolling landscape.
Yes, Avesnes-sur-Helpe offers a good selection of easy trails. There are over 260 easy routes available. A notable option is the Circuit of the Ramparts of Le Quesnoy, an easy 4.8 km trail that takes you through historic fortifications and serene ponds.
For those seeking more challenging routes, the area around Avesnes-sur-Helpe offers nearly 30 difficult trails. The loops around Lac du Val-Joly, such as the Val Joly Dam – Lake Val-Joly loop from Willies, provide longer distances and more significant elevation changes, making them ideal for experienced hikers.
Yes, many of the hiking routes in the Avesnes-sur-Helpe area are designed as circular loops. For example, the Salamandre tour is a popular moderate loop within the Avesnois Regional Natural Park, and the Hike along the Grande Honnelle from Gussignies also offers a scenic circular path.
The region is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore the vast woodlands and streams, particularly along the Grande Honnelle river. The artificial Lac du Val-Joly is a prominent feature with several scenic loops. Additionally, you might encounter unique geological formations like the Le Caillou-qui-Bique, or historical sites such as the Le Quesnoy Ramparts.
Yes, several trails integrate natural beauty with local heritage. For instance, the Circuit of the Ramparts of Le Quesnoy takes you through historic fortifications. You can also find trails near historical sites like Gussignies Castle or Château de Trélon.
The trails around Avesnes-sur-Helpe are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1,400 reviews. Hikers often praise the quiet woodlands, the scenic beauty of the Avesnois Regional Natural Park, and the well-maintained paths that cater to various skill levels.
Many trails in the Avesnois Regional Natural Park and surrounding areas are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas or near livestock, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.
Absolutely. Lac du Val-Joly is a central feature for hiking in the area. Several trails directly circle the lake, offering continuous views. The Val-Joly Lake Loop from Lac du Val-Joly is a moderate 10.9 km route that provides excellent perspectives of the lake and the Val Joly Dam.
The Avesnes-sur-Helpe region is enjoyable for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery with blooming flora or vibrant fall colors. Summer is also popular, especially around Lac du Val-Joly, though some trails might be busier. Winter hikes can be serene, particularly in the woodlands, but require appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions.
Yes, the "Voie Verte de l'Avesnois" is a notable greenway in the region. This secure and picturesque 100-kilometer route is suitable for both cyclists and walkers, traversing varied landscapes of forests, meadows, and charming villages. You can find more information about it via the Voie verte de l'Avesnois highlight.
There are over 640 hiking routes available around Avesnes-sur-Helpe, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels and preferences.


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