Top 3 Lakes around Perwez
Lakes around Perwez, Belgium, offer diverse natural beauty and recreational opportunities in the surrounding Brabant Wallon province. While Perwez itself does not host major lakes, nearby areas feature notable water bodies. These include artificial lakes and former quarries, providing varied landscapes for exploration. The region provides opportunities for walking, leisure, and observing local flora and fauna.
Best lakes around Perwez
- The most popular lakes is Opprebais Quarry Lake, a lake that is a former quartzite quarry flooded in 1935.…
Last updated: October 3, 2026
Opprebais Quarry Lake
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Lake Louvain-la-Neuve
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By the pond
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Pond Path
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Dongelberg Quarry
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The exploitation of the Opprebais quarry began during the construction of the Namur-Louvain road around 1755, under the impetus of Empress Maria Theresa of Austria: quartzite was extracted there, a very hard stone mainly used for making paving stones but still present in its natural state in certain areas of the municipality. Some parts of the Opprebais castle-farm are built with quartzite rubble stones. Production stopped for the first time and, in 1935, the quarry was flooded. Activity resumed from 1958 to 1975. The lake, fed by groundwater, is surrounded by rock faces and vegetation. Owned by the Société Wallonne Des Eaux, the quarry is closed to the public: access to the water and swimming are prohibited: the site had to be fenced off to prevent any intrusion as the place is dangerous due to its depth (up to 30m), the water temperature (risk of thermal shock) and the presence of rocks. The place is also known to diving clubs. A path, enhanced by a fitness trail, allows you to walk around it.
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Ideal for enjoying the peace that is very present here.
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Very nice little park for a picnic, for example.
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Lake Louvain-la-Neuve was created in 1984 as a fish pond and storm basin to prevent flooding in the lower part of the town and in the valley.
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The lake of Louvain-la-Neuve, with a surface area of 7 ha, was dug out in 1984 to serve as a storm basin and fish pond. A footpath with a Finnish track along the lake serves as a walking and leisure route.
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On the bench by the pond in the park...
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Former quartzite quarry exploited in the 19th century. It now hosts a diving center.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect around the lakes near Perwez?
The lakes in the region offer diverse natural beauty. You'll find the urban green oasis of Lake Louvain-la-Neuve, known for its serene environment and varied flora and fauna. In contrast, the Opprebais Quarry Lake presents a more dramatic landscape with impressive rock faces and lush vegetation, a remnant of its industrial past.
Are there walking or hiking trails around the lakes?
Yes, both major lakes offer walking opportunities. Lake Louvain-la-Neuve features a popular 1.5-kilometer footpath, ideal for relaxing strolls and jogging. Around the Opprebais Quarry Lake, you can explore a nature walk enhanced by a fitness trail, offering views of the unique quarry environment. For more extensive hiking, check out the hiking guide around Perwez.
Are the lakes near Perwez suitable for families?
Yes, several spots are family-friendly. Lake Louvain-la-Neuve is ideal for families, offering easy walking paths, picnic areas, and a disc golf course. The area 'By the pond' is also noted as a very nice little park for a picnic. While the Opprebais Quarry Lake offers scenic walks, direct access to the water is prohibited due to safety concerns, so it's more suited for walks than water-based family activities.
Can I bring my dog to the lakes?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on leashes on the walking paths around the lakes. The footpath around Lake Louvain-la-Neuve is popular for dog walking. Similarly, the nature trails around Opprebais Quarry Lake are suitable for walks with dogs.
What historical significance do the lakes hold?
The Opprebais Quarry Lake has significant historical importance. It's a former quartzite quarry that operated from 1755 until 1975, providing stone for roads. The site offers a glimpse into the region's industrial past. Lake Louvain-la-Neuve, on the other hand, is a more recent creation, dug in 1984 primarily as a storm basin and fish pond.
Are there any water activities like swimming or fishing allowed?
Swimming is strictly prohibited at Opprebais Quarry Lake due to its depth, cold water, and submerged rocks, making it dangerous. The site is fenced off. Lake Louvain-la-Neuve functions as a storm basin and fishing pond, and fishing is a popular activity there. For diving, the Dongelberg Quarry is known to host a diving center.
Where can I find parking near the lakes?
Parking is generally available near the main lake attractions. Lake Louvain-la-Neuve is easily accessible within the university town, and parking facilities are typically available. For Opprebais Quarry Lake, there are usually designated parking areas for visitors exploring the nature trails.
What other outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
Beyond walking around the lakes, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous road cycling routes, mountain biking trails, and additional hiking paths. Explore options like the 'Opprebais Mill – Chêneau Chapel loop' for road cycling, the 'Grand-Leez Pond – Restored Windmill loop' for MTB, or the 'Prieuré Sainte-Marie loop' for hiking. You can find more details in the road cycling guide, MTB guide, and hiking guide around Perwez.
Are there any accessible options for visitors with limited mobility?
Lake Louvain-la-Neuve is known for its accessibility, with a well-maintained footpath encircling the lake, making it suitable for strollers and potentially some wheelchairs. The area 'By the pond' also offers a peaceful, easily accessible spot for relaxation.
Are there cafes or restaurants near the lakes?
Given its location within the university town, Lake Louvain-la-Neuve is surrounded by amenities, including cafes, pubs, and restaurants in Louvain-la-Neuve itself. For Opprebais Quarry Lake, you might find options in the nearby village of Opprebais or Incourt, though they may not be directly adjacent to the lake.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Perwez?
The lakes can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and enjoying the changing foliage. Summer is ideal for picnics and outdoor leisure activities. Even in winter, the paths around the lakes provide opportunities for peaceful strolls, especially around Lake Louvain-la-Neuve.
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