Maison du Parc Naturel des Hauts-Pays

Written By Gregory Lefevre

located just across the belgian border in the quiet village of onnezies (honnelles), the Maison du Parc Naturel des Hauts-Pays Click to open side panel for more information  serves as the official gateway to one of the most pristine rural regions contiguous with the scarpe-escaut regional nature park. this visitor and environmental center is the ultimate launching pad for exploring the hauts-pays nature park, an area famous for its deeply carved river valleys, lush ancient forests, and rich agricultural heritage. the facility functions as a central informational hub where hikers, trail runners, and cyclists can grab high-quality physical trail maps, learn about local conservation efforts, and discover hidden historical routes across the territory.

The setting & nature trails

the landscape surrounding the center is defined by the beautiful, rolling hills of the honnelles commune, making it a dramatic departure from the flatter canal paths of the mining basin.

  • the honnelles trail network: the maison is the direct starting point or primary resource for several loops tracking through the grand honnelle and petite honnelle river valleys. these trails plunge into dense woodlands, passing historic stone watermills, old quarries, and deep caves like the famous grotte de notre-dame de louise.

  • mythic landscapes: walking the trails here brings you into contact with local folklore, including the caillou-qui-bique, a massive, curiously shaped rock formation nestled deep in the woods along the riverbank that has inspired local artists and poets for generations.

  • cross-border connectivity: the trail networks managed here seamlessly link up with paths extending straight back into the french side of the regional nature park, creating a vast, unbroken sanctuary for long-distance trekkers.

What to do at the center

  • hiker resources: the visitor lobby is fully stocked with official topographic maps, localized walking loops (ranging from short family strolls to technical day hikes), and regional cycling itineraries.

  • local products shop: the house often showcases a fine selection of artisanal products from local farmers and brewers, allowing you to sample authentic hauts-pays cheeses, honey, and traditional regional beers right after a long hike.

  • exhibitions & events: the center regularly hosts educational nature workshops, guided biodiversity walks, and seasonal exhibitions focused on preserving the unique flora and fauna of the surrounding valleys.

location & links

the house is easily reachable via a scenic countryside drive from quiévrechain or valenciennes, offering dedicated parking spaces and a tranquil setting to plan your outdoor adventures.

Gregory Lefevre
Previous

The RAVeL Path
Next

Etang du Vignoble Valenciennes