Attractions and Places To See around Lobbes - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Lobbes include a rich array of historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. The region is characterized by its historical tapestry, particularly centered around its collegiate church and the powerful Benedictine monastery founded in the 7th century. Visitors can explore scenic beauty along the Sambre Valley and discover unique cultural heritage in the surrounding areas. Lobbes offers a blend of historical exploration and natural landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best attractions and places to see around Lobbes
- The most popular attractions is Aulne Abbey Ruins, a historical site founded in the 7th century. The remains of this former Cistercian Abbey are situated in the Peace Valley, surrounded by nature. It is a beautiful location with several restaurants nearby, and the Abbey Brewery's beer is served on tap.
- Another must-see spot is Hanging gardens, a historical site featuring unique terraced gardens. These gardens are built on the foothills of a high hill, forming part of the city's fortifications. They are recognized as an exceptional heritage site of Wallonia and possess a special microclimate due to abundant sunlight.
- Visitors also love Posty des Soeurs-Grises, a historical religious building. This former Gray Nuns Convent was rebuilt after a fire in 1745, thanks to the generosity of an Abbot of Lobbes. It features a high Baroque facade and a chapel dedicated to St. Elizabeth of Hungary.
- Lobbes is known for its historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features. Visitors can explore historical sites, cultural landmarks, and natural features, including castles and old railway bridges.
- The attractions around Lobbes are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 500 upvotes and over 260 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Aulne Abbey Ruins
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Posty des Soeurs-Grises
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cirkwi.com
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Old Railway Bridge Over the Sambre
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Château d'Hourpes
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Thomas Bonehill, during a trip to Bohemia, was amazed at the sight of a castle; he had a replica built between 1887 and 1888 for the daughter of Emile Bonehill-Servais, with a concierge's lodge on the left and a stable on the right.
The Bonehills operated two factories in Hourpes, and had the mining village built there, which is still there today. They went bankrupt in 1926, and the equipment was dismantled and transferred to Ireland ten years later."
waymarking.com/waymarks/wm11K38_Chteau_de_Hourpes_Thuin_Belgique
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Hanging gardens
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Thuin Hanging Gardens
Thuin Hanging Gardens are world famous! The small town of Thuin is located southwest of Charleroi and still belongs to Wallonia. The town is known for the Belfry, the medieval alleys but especially the Hanging Gardens. This is truly unique in Belgium and is therefore on the list of exceptional heritage! The alleys around the Hanging Gardens are also recognized as an exceptional heritage of Wallonia.
From the medieval center you come to the edge of the town and this is where the Hanging Gardens begin. The gardens can be seen even better if you drive in from the south. Thuin is located on a high hill and on the foothills of the hill are the gardens. The gardens are only found on the southern slope. The gardens and terraces were created during the construction of the city. They are part of the fortifications of the city. Very special is that the terraces have a microclimate. Due to the abundance of sunlight, special fauna and flora grows for the region.
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Tips from the Community
Interesting old railway bridge, unfortunately there is no cycle path over it yet. Then it would be perfect.
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Monastery ruins worth seeing. More information: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abtei_Aulne?wprov=sfla1
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An absolutely worth seeing ruin, definitely visit.
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The ruins of the Abbaye d'Aulne seem almost mystical.
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This is not entirely correct and the source is not credible. Thomas Bonehill died in 1858 and therefore cannot have started the construction of the castle in 1887. It was his son Emile who initiated it (for his daughter Elisa, information to be validated).
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Following an old railroad track, you arrive at the Sambre. The bridge is forbidden though (it was possible to get to the other side of the river, but there are road blocks now)
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Nice climb to it, and the place has not stolen its name!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Lobbes?
Lobbes and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the impressive Aulne Abbey Ruins, a significant historical site founded in the 7th century, located in the serene Peace Valley. Another notable historical religious building is the Posty des Soeurs-Grises in nearby Thuin, a former Gray Nuns Convent with a high Baroque facade. The Collegiate Church of St. Ursmer in Lobbes itself is also a prime example of Mosan art and architecture.
Are there any unique natural or cultural landscapes to see near Lobbes?
Absolutely. The Hanging gardens in Thuin are a world-renowned and unique terraced landscape built on the foothills of a high hill, recognized as an exceptional heritage site of Wallonia. They boast a special microclimate supporting unique flora. You can also explore the scenic Sambre Valley, which offers beautiful natural views.
What outdoor activities, like cycling or hiking, are available around Lobbes?
The region around Lobbes is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, road cycling, and gravel biking. For example, explore routes like the 'Plate-Taille Dam – Lake Viewpoint loop' for road cycling or the 'Aulne Abbey Ruins – Aulne Abbey Ruins loop' for gravel biking. Many routes follow the Sambre towpath, offering scenic views. You can find more details on specific routes in the Cycling around Lobbes, Road Cycling Routes around Lobbes, and Gravel biking around Lobbes guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Lobbes area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Aulne Abbey Ruins are considered family-friendly, offering a beautiful historical setting to explore. The Old Railway Bridge Over the Sambre also provides an interesting area for a family stroll with peaceful river views.
What is the best time to visit Lobbes for outdoor activities?
For outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, spring, summer, and early autumn are generally the best times to visit Lobbes. The Hanging gardens, for instance, benefit from abundant sunlight, suggesting pleasant weather enhances the experience.
Where can I find a good viewpoint or scenic spot near Lobbes?
The Hanging gardens in Thuin offer excellent viewpoints, especially when viewed from the south, as they are built on the foothills of a high hill. The Old Railway Bridge Over the Sambre also provides a peaceful view of the Sambre river.
Are there any castles or unique architectural sites to visit?
Beyond the historical abbey and convent, you can also find Château d'Hourpes, a castle with a unique architectural style, built as a replica of a Bohemian castle. The Collegiate Church of St. Ursmer in Lobbes is also a significant example of Mosan art and architecture.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Lobbes?
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth and natural beauty of the area. The Aulne Abbey Ruins are loved for their beautiful setting and the opportunity to enjoy local beer at nearby restaurants. The Hanging gardens are appreciated for their uniqueness and the charming medieval alleys surrounding them.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the main attractions?
Yes, particularly near the Aulne Abbey Ruins, you'll find several restaurants, making it an ideal spot for a meal break. For beer enthusiasts, the Abbey Brewery's beer is served on tap in these local establishments.
What is the significance of the Collegiate Church of St. Ursmer in Lobbes?
The Collegiate Church of St. Ursmer is a central landmark in Lobbes, reflecting the town's historical importance rooted in the powerful Benedictine monastery founded in the 7th century. It stands as a prime example of Mosan art and architecture, which flourished in the region between the 11th and 13th centuries.
Are there any specific walking routes or promenades in Lobbes?
Yes, Lobbes offers several designated walking and hiking routes, such as 'Au fil de Lobbes,' 'Promenade Héroïque,' 'Circuit de Goderan,' and 'Circuit de la Thudinie.' These allow visitors to explore the local landscape and history on foot.
How can I learn more about the regional art and architecture?
The Collegiate Church of St. Ursmer in Lobbes is a key example of Mosan art and architecture. For a deeper understanding of this regional style, which was prominent from the 11th to 13th centuries, you can consult resources like Wikipedia's article on Mosan Art.
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