Top 13 Natural Monuments around Pont-À-Celles
Best natural monuments around Pont-À-Celles include a mix of nature reserves and historical industrial sites repurposed for natural exploration. The region features several Natagora nature reserves, offering diverse ecosystems and opportunities for tranquility. The historical course of the Brussels-Charleroi Canal also provides accessible paths for walking and cycling through scenic landscapes. These locations highlight the natural beauty of the Hainaut province, with rolling hills and verdant valleys.
Best natural monuments around Pont-À-Celles
- The most popular natural monument is Piges Spoil Tip, a natural monument that features two conical slag heaps with abundant plant cover. Its summit offers a unique view of Charleroi and its city center.
- Another must-see spot is Biodiversity Observation Site, a viewpoint within a nature reserve. This site provides a quiet place to observe a large pond and is well-maintained with information boards about local birds.
- Visitors also love Observatory at Réserve Naturelle Domaniale des Dicentraires at the Sucrerie de Genappe, a viewpoint and natural monument. This large nature reserve is known for its rich biodiversity, including over 200 bird species, making it an important ornithological site.
- Pont-À-Celles is known for nature reserves, spoil tips, and viewpoints. These sites offer a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from diverse ecosystems to panoramic vistas.
- The natural monuments around Pont-À-Celles are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 40 upvotes and 20 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: May 17, 2026
This nature reserve was originally part of the old sugar factory of Genappe, and included several green areas and settling basins. It officially became a nature reserve in 2015.
The reserve is rich in biodiversity, with more than 200 bird species recorded in the last twenty years. This makes it one of the most important ornithological sites in Wallonia. The reserve is also home to several special vegetation communities.
The reserve is managed by the Department of Nature and Forests of the Walloon Region (DNF) with the collaboration of the ASBL Environnement Dyle.
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Passage through the Aulniats spoil tip via the GR
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Biodiversity Observation Site
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Pétria Spoil Tip No. 1
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Bought by the City of Fontaine-l'Evêque in 1995, the Pétria slag heap was classified as a "Natura 2000" zone in 2002. In 2020, the site became an approved nature reserve for batrachians following substantial developments aimed at protecting natterjack toads and midwife toads: excavation of temporary ponds, cleaning of sludge tanks to make them a breeding site, cleaning and clearing of the Babelone pond.
destinationterrils.eu/fr/terril-du-petria
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Piges Spoil Tip
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The summit offers a unique view of the whole of Charleroi and its city center
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Tips from the Community
One of a total of two birdwatching huts in this part of the nature reserve of the former sedimentation ponds of the Genappe sugar factory. This one offers by far the best view with a beautiful large pond. The lookout hut is accessible via a simple gate (everything else is fenced) and a few stairs. A wonderfully quiet place too and well maintained. The classic information boards with birds that you could observe are present. The surroundings are also beautiful with a lovely path that leads you to the access to the stairs to the hut and offers beautiful views since you are already at a height before you climb to the lookout hut.
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A beautiful stop along the Ravel L141. It is really enjoyable here. Herons, ducks and other birds galore in a beautiful setting. And with a bit of luck, the reflection on the water will make it all even more picturesque. I just couldn't get enough of it.
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The Réserve Naturelle des Décanteurs de la Sucrerie de Genappe is an important nature reserve in Genappe. It is the largest nature reserve in Brabant Wallon, with an area of 77 hectares. This nature reserve was originally part of the old sugar factory of Genappe, and included several green areas and settling basins. It officially became a nature reserve in 2015. The reserve is rich in biodiversity, with more than 200 bird species recorded in the last twenty years. This makes it one of the most important ornithological sites in Wallonia. The reserve is also home to several special vegetation communities. The reserve is managed by the Department of Nature and Forests of the Walloon Region (DNF) with the collaboration of the ASBL Environnement Dyle.
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The Aulniats slag heap is an elongated and flat slag heap, with an unstructured look that culminates at 186 m. Its abundant vegetation, its viewpoints over the Sambre valley and its small "canyon" colored with reddish hues by the combustion of the shales are all discoveries that will punctuate your walk on the slag heap. Witness to the activity of the last Walloon coal mine, the Aulniats slag heap is an invitation to a bucolic outing for the whole family. It conceals so many unsuspected treasures! Thus, lovers of mining remains will be pleasantly surprised to discover industrial structures at its foot. Budding geologists will scrape the surface of the slag heap to discover the reddish shales, witnesses of the self-combustion of the slag heap. These red shales were also exploited until 2001 as backfill, in particular to stabilize the runway at Charleroi airport. As for photographers, they will enjoy the exceptional panorama offered by its summit plateau! Hikers, for their part, will be delighted to walk in an environment of high quality flora and fauna. A pedestrian connection is possible with the slag heap n°7 of the Gouffre located a few cables away.
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The Pétria slag heap, known as “Seat No. 1” was created between 1870 and 1926. It was then exploited and reworked as part of the recovery of coal shale and residual coal. Bought by the City of Fontaine-l'Evêque in 1995, the Pétria slag heap was classified as a "Natura 2000" zone in 2002. In 2020, the site became an approved nature reserve for batrachians following substantial developments aimed at protecting natterjack toads and midwife toads: excavation of temporary ponds, cleaning of sludge tanks to make them a breeding site, cleaning and clearing of the Babelone pond. https://www.destinationterrils.eu/fr/terril-du-petria
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Nice view and nice city park on a slag heap.
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Observatory. Peaceful place to observe this site of biodiversity while respecting nature, flora and fauna.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural monuments can I explore around Pont-À-Celles?
The region around Pont-À-Celles offers a diverse range of natural monuments, including several Natagora nature reserves like Biernimont, Launoy, and Viesville, which feature varied ecosystems from wetlands to hedgerows. You can also explore historical industrial sites repurposed for natural exploration, such as spoil tips, and the scenic paths along the old Brussels-Charleroi Canal.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in the area?
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Observatory at Réserve Naturelle Domaniale des Dicentraires at the Sucrerie de Genappe is a large nature reserve known for its rich biodiversity and birdwatching opportunities, making it an engaging spot for all ages. Additionally, the Biodiversity Observation Site offers a quiet place to observe a large pond with informative boards about local birds, and the Passage through the Aulniats spoil tip via the GR provides a bucolic outing with unique geological features.
Where can I find panoramic views of the region?
For impressive panoramic views, consider visiting the Piges Spoil Tip. Its summit offers a unique perspective of Charleroi and its city center. Another excellent spot is the Passage through the Aulniats spoil tip via the GR, which provides viewpoints over the Sambre valley.
What historical natural sites can I visit near Pont-À-Celles?
The region features several natural monuments with historical significance. The old Brussels-Charleroi Canal, though no longer navigable, offers easily accessible towpaths for cycling and walking, allowing you to admire picturesque scenery and historic lock keeper houses. Additionally, spoil tips like Pétria Spoil Tip No. 1 are former mining sites that have been reclaimed by nature and classified as nature zones, offering a blend of history and natural beauty.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting?
Yes, the nature reserves are excellent for wildlife spotting. The Observatory at Réserve Naturelle Domaniale des Dicentraires at the Sucrerie de Genappe is one of Wallonia's most important ornithological sites, with over 200 bird species recorded. The Natagora reserves (Biernimont, Launoy, Viesville) also support diverse local flora and fauna, making them ideal for observing nature.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around Pont-À-Celles is well-suited for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy gravel biking on routes like those found in the Gravel biking around Pont-À-Celles guide, or explore running trails, including the 'Ligne 10 Cycle Path – Vauhallan Nature Reserve loop' from Viesville, detailed in the Running Trails around Pont-À-Celles guide. Mountain biking is also popular, with trails such as the 'Vauhallan Nature Reserve – In the Middle of the Fields loop' from Pont-à-Celles, available in the MTB Trails around Pont-À-Celles guide.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Pont-À-Celles?
The temperate climate of the region makes it suitable for visiting natural monuments throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant natural colors, while summer is ideal for longer walks and cycling. Even in winter, the landscapes, especially along the old Brussels-Charleroi Canal, can be tranquil and picturesque.
Are there any less crowded or hidden natural monuments to discover?
For a quieter experience, explore the Natagora Nature Reserves such as Biernimont, Launoy, and Viesville. These reserves are described as hidden among fields and offer a breath of fresh air away from more frequented spots. Launoy Pond, in particular, is a 'natural refuge' designed to be open and welcoming, with local naturalists showing increasing interest in its unique features.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments?
While specific dog policies vary by reserve, many natural areas and trails around Pont-À-Celles are dog-friendly, especially if kept on a leash. The towpaths along the old Brussels-Charleroi Canal are generally suitable for walks with dogs. Always check local signage at specific nature reserves for any restrictions.
What kind of geological features can I expect to see?
The region's natural monuments, particularly the spoil tips, offer unique geological insights. For instance, the Passage through the Aulniats spoil tip via the GR features a small 'canyon' colored with reddish hues from the combustion of shales, and visitors can discover these red shales on the surface. These sites are remnants of historical mining activity, now integrated into the natural landscape.
How can I learn more about local flora and fauna?
Organizations like Défi Nature offer guided forest walks and activities aimed at promoting local flora and fauna, allowing visitors to reconnect with nature. You can find more information about their initiatives on the Visit Wallonia website. Additionally, information boards at sites like the Biodiversity Observation Site provide details about local bird species.
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