The best running trails around Court-Saint-Étienne

Mill, history & enjoyment A wonderful place to stop after your visit to the abbey. Behind the building, the authentic water wheel still turns, powered by the river Thyle – a beautiful piece of living history. In the 19th century, Victor Hugo himself stayed here several times, finding inspiration for his work. Today, this is still an atmospheric stop: discover more about the abbey in the visitor centre and then enjoy the terrace or the historic vaulted rooms at Bistro de l’Abbaye. Be sure to try one of the artisanal abbey beers from the in-house microbrewery. 🍺 History, water, atmosphere, and a delicious local beer… a stop you don't want to miss! 😉

The Mills of Villers Abbey is where history & the present meet. The historic Abbey Mill is the ultimate gateway to the magical Cistercian site of Villers-la-Ville. This 13th-century monumental building, where the monks once ground their grain and baked 2000 loaves weekly for the poor, now serves as the modern visitor centre and the atmospheric Bistro de l'Abbaye. It forms the perfect starting or stopping point for your walk or bike ride.

Visit Abdij Villers-la-Ville Abdij van Villers – a ruin to reflect on 😉 The Abdij van Villers-la-Ville is an impressive Cistercian ruin from 1146 and one of the largest and best-preserved medieval abbey sites in Europe. Wander among the gigantic Gothic walls, columns, and roofless vaults where nature and centuries-old architecture are beautifully intertwined. The abbey reached its peak in the 13th century, but after centuries of wars and changes, monastic life came to an abrupt end in 1796. During the French Revolution, the monks were expelled and the abbey was sold. Buildings were dismantled stone by stone, after which wind, rain, and encroaching nature slowly transformed the complex into an impressive ruin. In the 19th century, Villers became a beloved spot for artists and romantics. Victor Hugo (French writer, poet, playwright, and political thinker) was also fascinated by the ruins and visited the abbey several times. Thanks to restoration and heritage conservation, the site is beautifully preserved today. The combination of history, architecture, and nature makes a visit particularly atmospheric. Tip: allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore the abbey at a leisurely pace. Admission – entrance fees: Adults: €10 Children (6 to 12 years): €4 Children (under 6 years): free Seniors (65+): €8 People with disabilities: free Dogs are welcome on a leash. An absolute must-see for anyone who loves history, mysterious ruins, and photogenic places! “Post tenebras, spero lucem” – “After darkness, I hope for light.” 🌑➡️☀️

The imposing Porte de Namur was built in 1725 under the leadership of the influential abbot Jacques de Lierneux. What makes this gate extra special is that it had a double function. The exterior (which you are now looking at) was erected in a rich, classic Renaissance style of brick and bluestone to impress high-ranking guests. On top of the gate passage is a robust stone tower room. Historically, this served as a guardhouse and prison cell for the abbey, which was allowed to exercise its own jurisdiction at the time. A monumental transition from the open nature to the ancient abbey domain!

Feel free to take a seat on the wooden benches near this classic 18th-century forest chapel. Our Lady of Sorrows was not historically visited for a standard prayer: it was an important refuge for pilgrims and the sick suffering from severe pain, deep grief, or life's 'trials'. What passers-by often don't know is that this peaceful crossroads was once a strategic access road to the mighty, nearby Villers Abbey. Travelers were obliged to stop here at the time to pray for safe passage through the then still inhospitable, dense Ardennes forests where robbers were active. Today, it is fortunately an oasis of peace where you can catch your breath in the shade of the monumental oak trees!

Its impressive purple carpet of wild bluebells can be admired every spring. The peak period to witness this floral splendor is usually between mid-April and early May. The bloom lasts only about two weeks and is highly dependent on the early spring weather and the sunbeams filtering through the still bare canopy. Make sure to stay on the official paths during this period to avoid trampling the fragile bulbs!

Beautiful hiking trail runs under the railway. With special lighting, you can take beautiful photos here. (Highlight is in the wrong location = passed on to the editorial team)

Although the historic watermill itself is hidden behind the greenery, you are here at an important piece of monastic heritage. This mill on the Thyle was already built in 1293 after the Cistercian monks from the Abbey of Villers were granted permission to divert the stream for more water power. Through the centuries, the complex served as a grain mill, forge, oil press, and in the 19th century even as a marble and wood sawmill. During the French Revolution, the mill was nationalized and sold. Please note: the grounds are private property today.