The best walks and hikes around Saint-Nicolas
4.3
(2061)
9,573
hikers
14
hikes
Hiking around Saint-Nicolas, Belgium, features urban greenways and converted railway lines, providing accessible outdoor experiences. The region is characterized by its RAVeL Ligne 212, a former industrial route now serving as a green corridor away from city noise. Trails often pass through areas that have transitioned from industrial sites to natural reserves, offering a mix of developed paths and natural environments. Elevations are generally gentle, making the terrain suitable for a range of fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Saint-Nicolas
…Last updated: May 4, 2026
4.9
(10)
77
hikers
4.55km
01:16
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
56
hikers
8.44km
02:20
140m
150m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
27
hikers
5.30km
01:25
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(5)
9
hikers
10.4km
02:56
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
18
hikers
2.25km
00:37
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
A large scenography space was designed where you can discover a lot of information about the coal mountains in a fun way. There is also a cafeteria with a terrace where you can eat and drink something.
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RAVeL Ligne 212 is part of a network of greenways in Wallonia, Belgium. It is an urban RAVeL route that connects Liers (Herstal) to Saint-Nicolas (Terril du Gosson) and covers a distance of 10.5 km. The route passes through Liers, Rocourt, Ans, and Montegnée, and offers a green and airy environment away from the noise of the city. It is a useful tool for daily commuting, allowing you to reach schools, leisure centers, and shops, or to reach a nature island and then Liège via the Meuse Valley
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A sculpture installed on the site nicely reflects the evolution of the era industrial (the coal wagons) to the nature reserve where lives, between others, the blue cricket.
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At an entrance to the site, you can admire this sculpture which pays homage to the botress, another female figure from Liège's past. The bot worn by this woman was a kind of hood, a long funnel-shaped basket carried on the back using straps which allowed all kinds of things to be carried. “fé comme les botresses” means taking the path shorter.
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A work of art was installed on the crater of the slag heap, These are storm pools. During walks, we can observe it and it is then an immense dragonfly which reveals, it is around 80 meters long, its body is made up of stones and its outstretched wings are converted into bodies of water suitable for the laying of natterjack toads (Bufo calamita).
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The Gosson slag heap 1 is located in the municipality of Saint-Nicolas, in the heart of the Liège industrial basin, not far from the Meuse. It is a major site for many remarkable heritage species that are protected or threatened in Wallonia. With an area exceeding 40 hectares, the Gosson slag heap is one of the largest slag heaps in the Liège region. Many natural environments coexist there, and all stages of vegetation representative of the colonization of mining sites are represented on the site. Nearly 200 species of plants have been counted! The nature reserve covers only a small part of this vast area. Open environments are favored there. Half of the nature reserve is managed by sheep
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La Maison des Terrils is open on Monday from 08:15 to 12:00 and from 13:00 to 17:00, Tuesday to Friday from 08:15 to 12:00 and from 13:00 to 18:00, and on Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00.
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La Maison des Terrils is located in the former wash house of the Gosson II slag heap, which was once used as a shower room and miners' changing room. It is now an interpretation center for slag heaps. After discovering the neighboring plants and animals in view, you can go and meet them in their natural environment. Long thought of as the painful scars of a bygone industrial age, slag heaps are now havens for many species that are partially threatened with extinction. The abandonment of these sites by humans has enabled a diversified nature to colonize these seemingly hostile environments
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Saint-Nicolas, Belgium?
There are over 15 hiking trails in the Saint-Nicolas area, offering a mix of easy and moderate routes. You'll find 11 easy trails and 5 moderate trails, primarily along urban greenways and converted railway lines.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Saint-Nicolas?
Yes, Saint-Nicolas offers several family-friendly hiking options, characterized by gentle elevations and well-maintained paths. An excellent choice for families is The dragonfly – The Dragonfly of Gosson loop from Seraing, which is an easy 2.3-mile route through green environments.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Saint-Nicolas?
Many of the trails in Saint-Nicolas, particularly those along the RAVeL Ligne 212, are suitable for dogs. It's generally recommended to keep your dog on a leash to ensure safety and respect for other trail users and local wildlife.
What kind of scenery can I expect while hiking in Saint-Nicolas?
Hiking in Saint-Nicolas, Belgium, offers a unique blend of urban greenways and natural reserves. You'll experience paths that have transformed from industrial sites into green corridors, providing a peaceful escape from city noise. The trails often follow former railway lines, offering a distinct perspective on the region's landscape.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Saint-Nicolas?
Yes, Saint-Nicolas features several circular hiking routes. For example, the The dragonfly – The Dragonfly of Gosson loop from Saint-Nicolas is a moderate 5.2-mile loop that provides varied terrain along a former railway line. Another option is the The dragonfly – RAVeL Line 212 loop from Ans, a 6.4-mile trail through urban green spaces.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions near the hiking trails?
While hiking in Saint-Nicolas, you can explore several interesting nearby attractions. History enthusiasts might enjoy visiting Colonster castle or the impressive Prince-Bishops' Palace in Liège. For those interested in historical architecture, Aigremont Castle and Lexhy Castle are also within reach.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Saint-Nicolas?
The hiking experience in Saint-Nicolas is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 2000 reviews. Hikers often praise the accessibility of the urban greenways, the peaceful atmosphere of the converted railway lines, and the ease of finding routes suitable for various fitness levels.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Saint-Nicolas is well-suited for beginners with 11 easy trails available. A great starting point is the RAVeL Line 212 loop from Lamay, an easy 2.3-mile route with minimal elevation gain, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
How long do the hikes in Saint-Nicolas typically take?
The duration of hikes varies depending on the route and your pace. Easy trails like The dragonfly – The Dragonfly of Gosson loop from Seraing can be completed in about an hour. Moderate routes, such as the RAVeL Line 212 loop from Ans, might take around 2 hours and 55 minutes.
Is there parking available near the trailheads?
Given the urban nature of many trails in Saint-Nicolas, parking is generally available near various access points to the RAVeL lines and greenways. It's advisable to check specific starting points for designated parking areas, especially when planning to access routes from towns like Seraing, Saint-Nicolas, Ans, Glain, or Lamay.
Can I reach the hiking trails using public transport?
Yes, many of the hiking trails in Saint-Nicolas are accessible via public transport, especially those that connect to urban centers. The RAVeL Ligne 212, for instance, passes through several towns, making it convenient to reach trailheads by bus or train, particularly from locations like Liers, Rocourt, Ans, and Montegnée.
What is the longest hiking trail in the Saint-Nicolas area?
Among the listed routes, the The dragonfly – RAVeL Line 212 loop from Ans is one of the longer options, spanning 6.4 miles (10.4 km). This moderate trail takes you through urban green spaces and natural areas, typically requiring about 2 hours and 55 minutes to complete.
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