Best lakes around Neuville-En-Ferrain provide options for local recreation and more extensive outdoor activities. While Neuville-En-Ferrain itself features a local fishing pond, the surrounding region offers a wider array of natural and man-made water bodies for exploration. These include former gravel pits transformed into nature reserves and filtration ponds that have become ecological areas. The area is characterized by diverse landscapes, offering opportunities for walking, cycling, and nature observation.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
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The entire area, 86 hectares in size, is owned and managed by the city of Kortrijk. It is located at the highest point of Kortrijk. The Marionetten urban green space itself is 57 hectares. The nature reserve was developed from 1996 onwards on the former grounds of nv Dakpannenfabriek Pottelberg, which received a permit in the 1950s to extract brown and blue clay here. After the clay extraction ceased, the pit was filled with waste. In 1996, the pit was covered, after which it was laid out as a nature reserve. The unfilled clay pit forms the pond. From 2008 onwards, this part forms the central part of the Marionetten urban green space: between Canaertstraat and Bosstraat. A RUP (Urban Development Plan) was drawn up for the entire zone (86 ha) and an implementation plan was drawn up, which was carried out step by step and completed in 2004. As of today, the Marionetten urban green space has not yet been fully acquired; parts still need to be purchased or are subject to an agricultural lease. The previous history of the site now creates differences in elevation. At the highest point stands the large Libel, containing information about the area, fauna, and flora. A staircase has been built on the side of the pond. Source: natuurpunt.be
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The Bergelen Provincial Estate in Wevelgem developed around a 10-hectare artificial sand extraction pit. The sand was used for the construction of the E403 (A17) motorway in the early 1970s. The municipality purchased this pit and surrounding land between 1989 and 1995. Various planting activities and numerous management works (reprofiling the banks, creating a water berm, building observation huts and walls, creating walking paths, constructing a bat shelter, digging ponds, etc.) were carried out by the municipal council. This created a small but very interesting nature reserve. In 1996, the farm and the 29 hectares of surrounding agricultural land were purchased by the province, and large parts of the newly acquired area were afforested. In 1999, the province entered into a lease with the municipality for the management of the Bergelen pit and its surroundings. This created the Bergelen Provincial Estate, which currently covers an area of 47 hectares. The Heulebeek stream flows along and through the estate, still following a largely natural course there. You'll also find the Bulskamphoeve, first mentioned in Gullegem in 1549. It's a historic farmstead whose horseshoe-shaped buildings are situated within the ramparts. The farmstead was destroyed several times during wartime and subsequently rebuilt or renovated. The current building is believed to date from 1775. A protected monument, the Meiboom, also stands in the area. This is a group of six lime trees with a large iron cross in the center. Source: wevelgem.be
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The filter ponds in Leers were built to supply water to the Roubaix Canal, which is located nearby. Their primary function is to purify some of the water from the Grimonpont wastewater treatment plant. This plant initially filters 75% of the water; the ponds then process the remaining 25%. This final filtration takes seven days. During this process, the water flows through several ponds, moving from one to the other by gravity. This filtration technique is called phytoremediation: the water is naturally purified by algae, plants, and microorganisms that thrive in these ponds. In Leers, plants such as yellow iris and purple loosestrife, among others, play this purifying role. After seven days of filtration, the water flows into a final 9,000 m² basin. At this stage, it is perfectly purified and of very high quality. This final basin, known as the "storage basin," is the final step before the water is conveyed to the canal. The Leers filter ponds, formerly a landfill, are now a peaceful 5-hectare nature reserve, perfect for a relaxing walk, alone or with the family. The area is home to around thirty bird species, including the coot, the Mediterranean gull, and the reed bunting. If you look closely, you might even be lucky enough to spot a smooth newt swimming in the ponds, searching for small invertebrates to feed on. To protect the environment and wildlife, dogs must be kept on a leash on the paths and are not permitted in the winding sections of the ponds. Source: enm.lillemetropole.fr
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With the realisation of Bissegem Plage, Bissegem will gain an attractive and peaceful location. It will be a beautiful piece of nature of almost 10,000m² (1ha) that will be permanently free from construction. In this way, we will preserve the unique green character along the Leie. This will undoubtedly become one of the most beautiful parts of Bissegem. In this zone, we will set up a water buffer basin. We will collect all the rainwater from the Driekerkenstraat here. It concerns two buffer basins, one of which overflows into the other. They are a maximum of half a metre deep. The largest of the two will never be dry. A jetty (wooden terrace) will partly bridge this basin. Here, everyone can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the passage of large boats. We provide a connection with the cemetery. In a large part of the site, children can romp and play freely. This is also possible in the smallest buffer basin. (info City of Kortrijk)
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A special place that is definitely worth a visit. The Bergelenput is a former gravel pit, which has been transformed into a nature reserve over the years. The water in the pits and the surrounding grounds have developed into a valuable nature reserve, making it an ideal place for various species of animals and plants. The area is managed with care, and is home to numerous water birds and amphibians.
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A stone's throw from the city center you will find a green treasure. Stadsgroen Marionetjes is an ecological recreational nature reserve in Kortrijk, attractive and accessible to all Kortrijk residents and visitors. You walk through different parts of the landscape: forest edges, water features, open spaces, hidden corners, a play hill, a forest to romp in and meadows. A piece of nature, in the middle of your city. Ideal for getting some fresh air, stretching your legs, relaxing or just having fun. More info at https://www.kortrijk.be/stadsgroen-mariotten
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For a wide range of outdoor activities, Les Prés du Hem in Armentières is a popular choice, offering swimming, sailing, and various water sports. Other appreciated spots include Bergelen Provincial Domain, known for its nature reserve and walking paths, and Parc du Héron in Villeneuve-d'Ascq, which is excellent for nature observation and cycling.
Yes, several lakes are great for families. Les Prés du Hem features a sandy beach, mini-golf, and playgrounds, making it ideal for all ages. Bergelen Provincial Domain also offers a playground and a café-restaurant. The lakes around Bouvines, including Spanish Lake, often have playgrounds and amenities suitable for family outings.
Yes, Les Prés du Hem in Armentières is the primary location for swimming, with a sandy beach. It also offers a sailing school, pedal boat and kayak rentals, and an inflatable water structure for older children. Other lakes are generally more suited for walking and nature observation rather than swimming.
You'll find extensive walking and cycling paths at Parc du Héron, which is a large regional nature reserve. The lakes around Bouvines, including Heron Lake and Spanish Lake, also offer pleasant trails for leisurely strolls and bike rides. Stadsgroen Marionetten – The Dragonfly provides varied landscapes with forest edges, water features, and open spaces for walking.
Absolutely. Parc du Héron is a large regional nature reserve known for its rich biodiversity and excellent birdwatching opportunities. Bergelenput, a former gravel pit, has been transformed into a valuable nature reserve, providing a habitat for numerous water birds and amphibians. The Leers Filtration Ponds, a 5-hectare nature reserve, is also home to around 30 bird species.
Beyond enjoying the lakes themselves, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails around Neuville-En-Ferrain, including easy loops. For cyclists, there are gravel biking routes, and runners can explore various running trails in the vicinity.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best conditions for water sports and outdoor activities like swimming and picnicking. Autumn provides beautiful foliage for walks, while winter can offer tranquil, crisp scenery, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Dog policies vary by location. At the Leers Filtration Ponds, dogs must be kept on a leash on the paths and are not permitted in the winding sections of the ponds to protect wildlife. Always check specific regulations for each park or reserve you plan to visit.
Yes, Parc du Héron in Villeneuve-d'Ascq not only offers natural beauty but also holds cultural and historical significance, housing an archaeological park (Asnapio) and historical farm buildings. At Bergelen Provincial Domain, you can find the historic Bulskamphoeve farmstead and a protected monument called the Meiboom.
Les Prés du Hem is located in Armentières, approximately 20 km from Neuville-En-Ferrain. It is generally accessible by car, with parking available. For more detailed information on access and facilities, you can visit the Lille Tourism website: Les Prés du Hem.
Amenities vary by location. Les Prés du Hem is well-equipped with picnic areas, mini-golf, and a café. Bergelen Provincial Domain features a café-restaurant and a playground. Many lake areas, especially those popular with families like those around Bouvines, often include playgrounds and basic facilities.


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