Best lakes around Hem feature a mix of natural and man-made water bodies, often integrated into forested landscapes. This region provides diverse opportunities for outdoor activities, including walking, nature observation, and family-friendly excursions. The lakes offer serene environments, with some featuring dedicated paths for exploration. The area is known for its accessible natural spaces, making it suitable for various types of visitors.
Last updated: June 20, 2026
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The filter ponds in Leers were built to supply water to the Roubaix Canal, which is located nearby. Their primary function is to purify some of the water from the Grimonpont wastewater treatment plant. This plant initially filters 75% of the water; the ponds then process the remaining 25%. This final filtration takes seven days. During this process, the water flows through several ponds, moving from one to the other by gravity. This filtration technique is called phytoremediation: the water is naturally purified by algae, plants, and microorganisms that thrive in these ponds. In Leers, plants such as yellow iris and purple loosestrife, among others, play this purifying role. After seven days of filtration, the water flows into a final 9,000 m² basin. At this stage, it is perfectly purified and of very high quality. This final basin, known as the "storage basin," is the final step before the water is conveyed to the canal. The Leers filter ponds, formerly a landfill, are now a peaceful 5-hectare nature reserve, perfect for a relaxing walk, alone or with the family. The area is home to around thirty bird species, including the coot, the Mediterranean gull, and the reed bunting. If you look closely, you might even be lucky enough to spot a smooth newt swimming in the ponds, searching for small invertebrates to feed on. To protect the environment and wildlife, dogs must be kept on a leash on the paths and are not permitted in the winding sections of the ponds. Source: enm.lillemetropole.fr
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Just before Heron Park, a pretty little lake with easy access. Can be done on a gravel bike or mountain bike. There are quite a few hikers on weekends.
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HERE / Created in 1927, on the site of a former disused cemetery, Parc Clemenceau is the work of landscaper Edouard André. This professor at the National School of Horticulture in Versailles kept the existing chestnut trees in order to create a "screen" in front of the unsightly factories present at the time in the district. Rockeries from the Palais Vaissier and the pillars of the Château Masurel were even reused to develop the park! ELSEWHERE / United Kingdom: London's public parks and gardens With its "swan lake" and its winding walks, Parc Clemenceau has a very British feel that recalls the large parks of the English capital: Saint James Park, Hyde Park or Regent Park. "Green lungs" once created to clean up very dense industrial cities and allow residents to get some fresh air and show off. Author: TOURCOING TOURISME
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Parc Georges Clemenceau is a beautiful park located in the heart of the Belencontre area. It is the second largest park in the city and covers approximately 11 hectares. Among other things, you will find the Lac aux Cygnes: A charming pond with waterfalls and fountains that create a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere.
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A beautiful place to run between lake and forest. It is a haven of peace in the middle of the Lille metropolis.
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Beautiful nature and fun to cycle
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The most popular lakes around Hem include Heron Lake, known for its forest surroundings and gravel path, and Heron Park, a man-made lake within a park that's great for walks. Visitors also appreciate Observatiehut Péronne for nature and bird observation.
Yes, several lakes around Hem are family-friendly. Heron Lake, Heron Park, Observatiehut Péronne, and Spanish Lake are all categorized as family-friendly. The Leers Filtration Ponds also offer a peaceful 5-hectare nature reserve perfect for a relaxing walk with the family.
The lakes around Hem offer a mix of natural and man-made features. You'll find lakes surrounded by forests, such as Heron Lake, which is recognized as a natural monument. The Leers Filtration Ponds are a unique ecological site where water is naturally purified by plants and microorganisms, attracting around thirty bird species and even smooth newts.
Absolutely. Observatiehut Péronne is specifically designed as a picturesque place for nature and bird observation. Additionally, the Leers Filtration Ponds are a nature reserve home to various bird species like the coot, Mediterranean gull, and reed bunting, making it another excellent spot for birdwatching.
Visitors particularly enjoy the serene environments and accessible natural spaces. Many appreciate the opportunity for relaxing walks, getting fresh air, and observing nature. The gravel paths around lakes like Heron Lake are popular, though they can get crowded on weekends. The unique ecological aspect of the Leers Filtration Ponds is also a highlight.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. For instance, the 'Heron Lake – Chemin des lacs loop from Hem' is a moderate 10.8 km hike. Another option is the 'Chemin des lacs – Heron Lake loop from Hem', an easy 5.5 km route. You can find more hiking routes and details on the Hiking around Hem guide page.
Beyond hiking, the area around Hem's lakes offers options for cycling. You can find mountain biking trails like the 'Singletrack in Parc du Héron – Chemin des lacs loop from Lys-lez-Lannoy' (moderate, 26.2 km) or road cycling routes such as the 'View of Templeuve Windmill – Anstaing loop from Eurotéléport' (easy, 48.7 km). Explore more on the MTB Trails around Hem and Road Cycling Routes around Hem guide pages.
Generally, dogs are welcome, but often with restrictions. For example, at the Leers Filtration Ponds, dogs must be kept on a leash on the paths and are not permitted in the winding sections of the ponds to protect the environment and wildlife.
Yes, Heron Lake features a nice gravel path suitable for walking around the lake. Heron Park also offers great spaces for walking.
Yes, Heron Park is noted to have parking facilities, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car.
The lakes are generally enjoyable year-round, but visitor tips suggest that they can become quite crowded on weekends or when the weather is particularly nice. For a more tranquil experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or early mornings/late afternoons.
While popular spots like Heron Lake and Heron Park can be busy, exploring the paths in the woods adjacent to the lakes might offer a quieter experience. The Leers Filtration Ponds, while a nature reserve, are described as a peaceful area for walks.


Still not found your perfect lake around Hem? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.