Top 10 Natural Monuments around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut
Natural monuments around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut feature diverse landscapes, including former mining sites transformed into natural havens and protected reserves. The region is characterized by its unique relief, with slag heaps, ponds, and extensive natural areas. These sites support varied ecosystems, providing habitats for numerous plant and animal species. Visitors can explore these areas through marked trails and observe the local biodiversity.
Best natural monuments around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut
- The most popular natural monuments is Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve, a natural monument that is the largest reed-covered area in Wallonia. It is home to many animal species, some of which are rare or threatened.
- Another must-see spot is Mer de Sable State Reserve, an other natural site. This 22-hectare protected area is known for its peat moors and young birch forests, supporting exceptional flora including carnivorous plants.
- Visitors also love The bubbling spring of Stambruges and its mysteries., a natural monument. This spring's water surface is constantly agitated with fine bubbles, a phenomenon caused by air crossing a sandy layer at its bottom.
- Condé-Sur-L'Escaut is known for its transformed mining landscapes, protected peat moors, and extensive reed beds. These sites offer a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from unique geological features to rich biodiversity.
- The natural monuments around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 160 upvotes and 50 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Mer de Sable State Reserve
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Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve
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Source: visitwapi.be/nl/moeras-van-harchies
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The bubbling spring of Stambruges and its mysteries.
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The legend of the sunken coach
the boiling fountain of Stambruges hides the legend of the sunken coach. This unusual phenomenon has fueled a tragic legend linked to the place. In fact, it is said that in the past, one of the princes of the house of Ligne, to which Beloeil castle belongs, not far from here, was nicknamed the great devil. A nickname due to his reputation as an unrepentant gallant. He invited a young lady to spend a romantic evening on Good Friday. The unfortunate woman never returned to her home ... Coach, horses, coachman and young girl disappeared body and well in the waters of the spring. Nobody knew that she was the cause of the accident… divine punishment or jealousy… Some murmured that the mad coachman in love with his mistress could not bear that she gave herself thus to this prince so depraved… He then rushed all his crew in the dark waters, reputed to engulf forever objects and living beings trapped in the sands that sleep at the bottom ... This is how since midnight, every Good Friday, it is said that the coach reappears for a short time. We then hear the driver cracking his whip ... Before he dives again until the following year ...
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The Nail Tree of Stambruges
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There are now two of them carrying the wishes and hopes of recovery. The oldest, a black locust tree, fell to the ground in 2009. However, we continue to drive nails into it and leave personal objects, toys, clothes, shoes, bandages... These are the famous "rags" that we also find hanging to chapels, calvaries, springs in the region… The second, a younger oak, its “replacement” is right next door. Some “rags” also hang from the trunk to end up on the ground, a sign of healing according to tradition. But obviously, the old locust tree, even dead, still largely retains the votes of pilgrims.
You will notice the nails embedded in the bark. The rag trees of Stambruges would in fact be related to the tradition of nail trees, a tradition formerly common in northern France and Belgium. Originally, we just drove a nail into the tree, the menhir or the statue... By reciting a prayer or making a wish. Easier to deposit, more personal, rags have gradually taken over.
The rag trees of Stambruges are both invoked for the healing of skin diseases, rheumatism, childhood illnesses, to make it easier for babies to walk or the healing of wounds... We do not know when this belief dates back. On the other hand, when we look at the photos taken at the beginning of the 20th century, the locust tree, to the right of the chapel, does not yet seem to be covered in rags.
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Les Catillons
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oiseaumaraisdharchies.be
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Attention change of regulation, a part of the reserve is forbidden to bicycles. I saw it this morning.
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Michel Raulier: The Nail Tree of Stambruges Tree worship in our region is very ancient. Proof of this is the discovery in Blicquy, in the place called "Ville d'Anderlecht," of a set of 120 posts up to 90 cm in diameter. These may have served as supports for offerings, as evidenced by the numerous iron pins found in the filling holes. This could correspond to an artificial sacred grove housing deities, similar to Lucan's description of petrified forests in Pharsalia. In the past, trees, with their longevity and majestic shape, aroused a sense of sacredness in the minds of our ancestors. They were also believed to be capable of helping people solve their problems, particularly health problems. Many customs exist: walking around the tree, driving nails to fix the ailment, and tying cloths or fabrics to bind it. These trees were often Christianized by the installation of religious images or a chapel nearby. One example among others is that of Notre Dame de Foy. In Foy, near Dinant, a woodcutter discovered a 15th-century statuette in the heart of a very ancient oak tree in 1609. Long forgotten, the figurine bearing the image of the Virgin had been placed in a niche carved into the trunk. Over time, the wood completely covered it and erased its memory. In Stambruges, there is one of these remarkable trees, and beside it is a chapel, called "the chapel of Erconpuch" or, by another name, "the chapel of Arc-au-Puche," dedicated to the Virgin Our Lady of Arc-au-Puits, formerly called the Virgin of the Woods.
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The Mer de Sable nature reserve is a 22-hectare protected area, renowned for its peat moors and young birch forests. Formerly a pond that dried up in the 19th century, the site is home to exceptional flora, including heather and carnivorous plants such as the sundew. The reserve, classified as a major heritage site in Wallonia, offers marked trails for hiking and observing local biodiversity.
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Ornithological nature reserve, with magnificent species. Several observation points set up for bird watching. accessible to PMR.
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Special, that sandy area and a nice place to eat (there is also a restaurant)
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There are two viewing huts on the route. But especially many ornithologists. This must clearly be a special place!
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Located in the heart of the Haine valley, between Mons and Tournai, the marshy complex of Harchies-Hensies-Pommeroeul, better known as the Marais d'Harchies, is a major site for the fauna and flora of Wallonia. Covering an area of 550 hectares, this site of great biological interest is home to many species and constitutes an important transit site during bird migration and offers ideal conditions for the nesting and wintering of numerous species. Its registration as a “Ramsar” wetland confirms its importance on an international scale. https://oiseaumaraisdharchies.be/
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In the forest of Stambruges is 'la Fontaine bouillante', the bubbling spring where, according to legend, a mistress of the Prince De Ligne drowned with her coach and the crew of the coach tries to surface. In reality, it is spring water bubbling up through a crack in the earth. https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bos_van_Stambruges
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I discover around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut?
The region around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut offers diverse natural features, including former mining sites transformed into natural havens like the extensive Site de Chabaud-Latour, which features slag heaps and ponds. You can also explore protected peat moors and young birch forests at the Mer de Sable State Reserve, and vast reed beds at the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve. Unique geological phenomena like the bubbling spring of Stambruges also add to the area's distinct natural character.
Which natural monuments are particularly popular with visitors?
Visitors frequently enjoy the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve, known as Wallonia's largest reed-covered area and a haven for diverse animal species. The Mer de Sable State Reserve is also highly appreciated for its unique peat moors and rare flora. The bubbling spring of Stambruges, with its mysterious natural phenomenon, is another popular spot.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The natural monuments around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut are excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, especially at the Site de Chabaud-Latour with its over 30 kilometers of paths. For cycling, there are numerous routes like the 'Étang Chabaud-Latour – Lake view loop from Condé-sur-l'Escaut' which is an easy ride. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as the 'Étang Chabaud-Latour – Benches in the middle of the forest loop from Péruwelz'. You can find more routes in the Cycling around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut guide, the Road Cycling Routes around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut guide, and the MTB Trails around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut guide.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments suitable for children?
Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. The Base Nature et de Loisirs (Chabaud-Latour Lake), integrated within the larger Chabaud-Latour area, offers outdoor games, picnic areas, and water games, making it ideal for family outings. The Mer de Sable State Reserve and The Nail Tree of Stambruges are also listed as family-friendly, offering gentle trails and interesting sights.
Where can I observe diverse wildlife and unique plant species?
For wildlife and unique plants, the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve is a prime location, hosting nearly 300 animal species, including rare and endangered ones, and is excellent for birdwatching. The Site de Chabaud-Latour is renowned for its rich avian life with 230 bird species. The Mer de Sable State Reserve is celebrated for its exceptional flora, including heather and carnivorous plants like sundew, supported by its peat moors and birch forests.
What is the significance of the former mining sites in the region's natural landscape?
Former mining sites have been remarkably transformed into significant natural monuments. The Site de Chabaud-Latour, for instance, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that covers over 400 hectares, turning slag heaps and mining subsidence ponds into a haven for biodiversity. These unique landscapes now provide habitats for numerous species and offer extensive paths for exploration, blending human history with natural regeneration.
Are there any natural monuments with interesting local legends or historical significance?
Yes, the region has natural monuments steeped in local lore. The bubbling spring of Stambruges and its mysteries is associated with the tragic legend of a sunken coach. Additionally, The Nail Tree of Stambruges is a fascinating site linked to ancient traditions of healing and wishes, where visitors embed nails or leave 'rags' for various ailments.
Is the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve accessible for visitors with limited mobility?
Yes, the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve is noted as wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for visitors with limited mobility to enjoy its natural beauty and observe wildlife.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Condé-Sur-L'Escaut?
The natural monuments can be enjoyed throughout the year, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for hiking and wildlife observation due to milder temperatures and vibrant seasonal changes. Spring brings blooming flora and active birdlife, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Summer is also suitable, especially for activities around the lakes and leisure bases.
Are dogs allowed on the trails and in the natural monuments?
While specific regulations can vary by site, many natural areas in the Parc naturel régional Scarpe-Escaut generally allow dogs, often on a leash. It's always recommended to check specific signage at each natural monument, such as the Site de Chabaud-Latour or the Mer de Sable State Reserve, for their current dog policies to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.
Are there facilities like parking or public transport options to reach these natural sites?
Many natural sites, especially larger ones like the Site de Chabaud-Latour and the Base Nature et de Loisirs, typically offer parking facilities. For public transport, options may be more limited, but some areas might be accessible via local bus routes. It is advisable to check specific transport links for your chosen destination, such as the Lac de Chabaud-Latour, before your visit.
What kind of unique flora can be found in the region's natural monuments?
The region is home to unique flora, particularly in protected areas. The Mer de Sable State Reserve is notable for its exceptional plant life, including heather and carnivorous plants such as sundew. It also hosts rare species like the brown rhyncospore and flooded lycopod. The extensive reed beds of the Marais d'Harchies-Hensies-Pommerœul Nature Reserve also support a rich and diverse aquatic plant ecosystem.
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