Philippeville : Découverte des incontournables
19 October 2026
The Eau d'Heure lakes, Fondry des Chiens, and the authentic Mariembourg steam railway—to name just a few—are all landmarks and attractions that will enrich your next stay in Philippeville. Want more? Follow the guide!
Located in the Province of Namur, in the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse region, the municipality of Philippeville offers a rich natural heritage, notably thanks to the Viroin-Hermeton Natural Park which extends across its territory. A beautiful architectural heritage is also waiting to be discovered.
The region is full of varied activities, to ensure you enjoy an unforgettable stay, whatever your interests and the weather.
What awaits you in Philippeville? Hiking and walks in nature, diving in old quarries, discovering historical remains, tasting local products, dining in a good restaurant… We tell you everything in this mini-guide!
Philippeville is a town renowned for its Ancient red marble quarries now attract divers. It's fair to say that bodies of water are everywhere in this beautiful region, and the natural landscapes are breathtaking. Here are a few places to see.
The peaceful lakes of Roly (© grandlacderoly.com)
This municipal park, located in the heart of Nismes, along with its castle, is a particularly pleasant place to spend a relaxing day. The park includes various bodies of water that can be explored by boat, a mini-golf course, discovery trails, and a children's playground.
This impressive natural chasm is located on the heights east of the village of Nismes. It is part of the The Viroin-Hermeton Natural Park is a protected site where you can observe amazing biodiversity. This unique site is accessible via a marked walking trail or by tourist train.
This This impressive quarry , freely accessible and located two kilometers from Senzeille, is particularly popular with walkers, divers, speleologists, and climbers. It is a The site is classified as being of "great biological interest" . Admire its gigantic pink marble wall.
This lovely, welcoming park is great for family outings, or for organizing a barbecue . Some Play areas , a football pitch, a roller skating rink, and a ping-pong table are available. Festivities are regularly held on site.
During your stay in Philippeville, you will certainly want to explore some natural areas or stroll along the charming, typical streets. The Tourist Office offers several marked walking trails, including those around Jamagne. The Les Minières promenade a 25 km country walk To discover the village, there's a 75 km walk called " The Search for the Meanders of the Ry des Gattes ", the Vodecée walk , and the Samart Sautour walk. Beautiful scenery awaits you.
This large pond of 25 hectares It is located near the village of Roly . It is a Site of Great Biological Interest. You can walk along the pond; the place is magnificent.
The Viroin-Hermeton Natural Park It covers an area of 48,350 hectares and spans several municipalities: Couvin, Philippeville, and Viroinval. You will be enchanted by its magnificent landscapes, rural heritage, and charming trails. Furthermore, this park is home to several iconic species. A place to explore on foot or by mountain bike!
Discovering the Jardin d'O in Nismes by boat (© Charleroi Métropole Tourisme)
At the Eau d'Heure Lakes , You have the opportunity to relax when the weather is fine. Unwind by the water on a beach, visit Belgium's largest dam , admire the stunning 360° panorama, cycle along the lakes, follow a mountain biking trail, hop aboard the tourist train, visit the wellness center, let the children have fun at the playground, play a round of golf, or… indulge in a water sport!
Indeed, in summer you will have the opportunity to try windsurfing, kayaking, jet skiing, paddleboarding, water skiing, or even scuba diving.
Sunset at the Eau d'Heure Lakes (© WBT - Christophe Vandercam)
The Neptune Caves site Located in the heart of the Calestienne region, this site invites you to experience a 45-minute underground adventure deep within rock hundreds of millions of years old. Furthermore, the site is situated within a Natura 2000 protected natural area. Don't forget to book your guided tour, and a playground is available on-site for children.
All wikiloc routes in the Philippeville region can be viewed on wikiloc.com.
If you're staying in Philippeville for several days, you'll probably want to try an unusual sport in the heart of the Viroin-Hermeton Natural Park. Several sporting activities are available to you in this verdant setting.
The region is particularly known for its magnificent diving spots. Several former quarries , now flooded, are waiting to be explored by divers. Here are the ones you'll find near Philippeville:
Mountain biking enthusiasts will be thrilled to descend the trails of Bike Park , located in the beautiful natural setting of the Eau d'Heure Lakes. Beginners can enjoy the blue and green trails, while more experienced riders will appreciate the black trails. Even children will find something to enjoy.
Get a taste of local flavors by discovering producers in the region: beers, goat cheese, and other artisanal products… Some gems are worth tasting.
Every Wednesday the Food market , on the Place d'Armes, starting at 11:00 AM. Food trucks are present, as well as a fishmonger and other local vendors. It's the perfect opportunity to learn more about local specialties.
There Brasserie de Franchimont is located in Theux, overlooking Franchimont Castle. They produce several local beers such as Amber and Black Chinelle, Mocita Chinelle, and Imperial Stout. Don't hesitate to visit the brewery… before enjoying a tasting!
Visit the Brasserie des Fagnes It's a unique experience. After the tour, sample the specialty beers, which come straight from the tanks thanks to a system that supplies the bar. There are also A museum to discover on site, and of course, a tasting is included in the visit. You also have the option of having a meal on site.
A visit to the ©Brasserie des Fagnes?
This A family farm located in Yves-Gomezée offers a variety of dairy and meat products. Products are available for sale directly on-site from Thursday to Tuesday. You can find butter, cream, " Le petit Crève-cœur " cheese (plain or with herbs), buttermilk, soft cheese, yogurt, ice cream, charcuterie, chickens, and more.
Looking to buy some artisanal goat cheese? Head to La Chèvrerie de la Machine. , located in the village of Jamiolle. Get all types of Goat's milk products : yogurt, soft cheese, fresh cheese, small bacon-wrapped goat cheeses, small logs, ash-coated loaves, tommes…
In Philippeville, and more specifically within the Viroin Hermeton Natural Park, a rich heritage awaits you. A Gallo-Roman temple and the remains of remarkable castles: be sure to make a detour during your stay.
The ruins of an ancient Roman temple have been restored on the Tienne des Noël, not far from La Calestienne. It is one of the few Gallo-Roman sanctuaries to have existed in northern Gaul. The site of Matagne-la-Grande, where this sanctuary is located, is situated on the highest points of the region and is freely accessible. You can find more information about this historical site at the Musée du Malgré-Tout .
THE ruins of this castle dating from the 14th century are visible in the village of Dourbes , on the summit of a rocky spur, in the commune of Viroinval. It is well worth a visit, especially as the location offers you a superb viewpoint overlooking the village.
The ruins of Fagnolle Castle
If you are passionate about aviation, and in particular military aviation, see you at Spitfire Museum , located on the Florennes military base. The museum includes a An exhibition dedicated to the F-16 . You'll even have the opportunity to try a unique virtual experience, as if you were piloting an F-16!
As the museum is located on a military base, it is necessary to submit a request in advance to reserve your visit, and to respect the Access conditions .
The Espace Arthur Masson It is located in the three former schools of the village of Treignes. This place offers fun activities that will transport you back in time: Old-fashioned school, RétroBerlines of the Viroin, Theatrical Trail, Life-size Cluedo, Treasure Hunt… Enough to spend great moments with friends or family.
Looking to organize an original activity with family, colleagues, or friends? You'll probably be tempted by the leisure activities offered in the Philippeville region.
Thrill-seekers and adventure lovers will adore spending the day at Agimont Adventure ! Paintball, airsoft, and treetop adventure courses await, all within the magnificent grounds of Agimont Castle . Activities specially designed for... Teambuilding activities can also be organised there.
A unique experience awaits you during this steam train journey , which connects Mariembourg to Treignes . Themed events are organized at different times of the year (Easter train, barbecue restaurant train, craft market, Halloween train, etc.). Advance booking is required. And if you'd like to learn more about this railway world, visit the Musée du Chemin de fer à vapeur de Treignes. .
Let's go! (© visitwallonia.be)
This This unique golf club is located in an exceptional setting: the grounds of the Florennes airbase . The atmosphere is welcoming, so don't hesitate to come and try the course!
If you plan to stay in Philippeville for several days, you might want to explore the surrounding area. Three pretty villages are located nearby: Mariembourg, Soulme , and Vierves-sur-Viroin.
The village of Mariembourg is part of the municipality of Couvin. There are some great places to visit, such as the fortified town, the Brasserie des Fagnes brewery, or the embarkation point for the Steam railway . A great way to spend an afternoon with the family!
The picturesque village of Vierves-sur-Viroin (© beauxvillages.be)
This village in the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse region, within the municipality of Doische, is bisected by the Hermeton River. This typical village of the Namur Fens still lives in harmony with the seasons and the rhythms of agricultural work. During your visit, be sure to see the Church of Saint Columba, the old rectory, the old mill, the former quarries, and the Hermeton Valley.
Located in the municipality of Viroinval, it is one of the One of the Most Beautiful Villages of Wallonia , it was once known for its witch trials. Admire the remains of its castle perched on a rocky spur. Also, be sure to visit the old presbytery. If you're in the area during Carnival, you'll certainly enjoy the festivities in Vierves-sur-Viroin.
In Philippeville , there are a large number of activities, each as enjoyable as the next, to try, whatever the weather.
Enjoy local produce, dive in old quarries, stroll through sublime natural landscapes, admire historical remains, dine in a good restaurant… You will experience unforgettable moments.
Book with confidence
Quality assured
Authentic photos
Local & Here to help
Clear & Detailed
Family-run & Personal
