The best walks and hikes around Saint-Nicolas
4.3
(2217)
9,795
hikers
17
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
- The most popular hiking route is The dragonfly – The Dragonfly of Gosson loop from Seraing, a 2.3 miles (3.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 2 minutes to complete. This easy route offers a gentle path through green environments.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is The dragonfly – The Dragonfly of Gosson loop from Saint-Nicolas, a moderate 5.2 miles (8.4 km) path. This trail offers varied terrain along a former railway line, often completed in about 2 hours 20 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the The dragonfly – RAVeL Line 212 loop from Ans, a 6.4 miles (10.4 km) trail leading through urban green spaces and natural areas, often completed in about 2 hours 55 minutes.
- Hiking around Saint-Nicolas is defined by urban greenways, former railway lines, and natural reserves. The network offers options for easy and moderate ability levels.
- The routes in Saint-Nicolas are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 2000 reviews. More than 9000 hikers have used komoot to explore Saint-Nicolas's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 18, 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.
Sign up for free
5.0
(1)
21
hikers
7.26km
01:57
90m
90m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(6)
10
hikers
10.2km
02:53
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(2)
11
hikers
8.28km
02:14
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
0
0
Stunning night view of the city lights. A very peaceful and beautiful place for a short break
0
0
Built in 1881, it housed the Institute of Astrophysics until its relocation to the Sart-Tilman campus in 2002.
0
0
Apparently one of Liège's many 'lost places' ... but quite nice to see!
0
0
The Maison des Terrils is an interpretation center dedicated to the history of the Saint-Nicolas mining site. The only building still standing The 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 changing room. It is the only building that was not demolished after the closure of the mines in the late 1960s. The start of the Pays des Terrils From this place, the Pays des Terrils was gradually built. Today the slag heap of Gosson I covers 14 hectares and the slag heap of Gosson II 17 hectares. So much space devoted to Mother Nature! Sightseeing in the interpretation center The Maison des Terrils, a didactic, fun and interactive tourist welcome center, immerses you in the history of the mining site and introduces you to the current inhabitants of the slag heaps. Dozens of documents illustrate the difficult work in the mines. Colorful photos highlight the thousands of tiny inhabitants who now live on the snail heaps. Everything is staged with lighting effects, detailed panels and 3D effects. For lovers of nature and industrial heritage!
0
0
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
8
0
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.
8
0
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.
8
0
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.
Most popular routes around Saint-Nicolas
Most popular attractions around Saint-Nicolas
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
