Falaën

Falaën, one of the most beautiful villages in Wallonia, is located in the province of Namur, in the municipality of Onhaye. It's a place you absolutely must discover! The winding roads that cross the Molignée and Flavion valleys offer magnificent views. on the castle towers and the rich heritage of the village.

The Falaën fortified farm was built in the 17th century. The impressive fortress was once surrounded by a moat. This large, quadrangular farm, with its four corner towers, one of which is in ruins, has retained its defensive character and seems to dominate the village. The original drawbridge has been replaced by a three-arched bridge. This listed monument is one of Falaën 's many heritage treasures.

Not far from the village, just 2 km away, lie the ruins of Montaigle Castle. This castle was once a comital residence in the 14th century, belonging to the lords of Faing. But much earlier, around the year 900, a castle already stood atop this impressive rock. Some remains of this ancient structure are still visible, notably a wall following the outline of a Gallo-Roman wall.

It is possible to visit these ruins, and the adjoining museum reveals the history of the place as well as objects discovered on the site during successive archaeological excavations.

Another historic building in Falaën is the old brewery, built around 1850-1860. This brewery was supplied with water from the Brou, a nearby stream. The space under the roof served as a hop-drying room, and the building still has the door and pulley used to hoist supplies to the attic.

The brewery ceased operations during the interwar period, but remains an emblematic building of past life in Falaën.

At the southeastern entrance to the village stands the Notre-Dame de Lourdes chapel, a small neo-Romanesque chapel which contributes to the spiritual atmosphere of the village.

Falaën also has an art trail called “ Six pas vers l’Art entre Samson et Lesse”, where contemporary artworks are exhibited. The work “Le Cœur de Falaën” from Elbe, located near the portal of the Church of Saint-Léger, is one of them.

A journey that can be made on foot, by bike or by car!

For nature lovers, the Molignée Valley offers a picturesque landscape classified as a Natura 2000 site due to its biological importance. The mosaic landscape around Falaën makes the region ideal for walks and exploring its natural wonders.

Looking for adventure? Then the railbikes of La Molignée are for you! Hop on a railbike and explore the magnificent Molignée Valley at your own pace. Choose from different routes and enjoy a few hours of pure relaxation.

Looking for something short? Opt for the Falaën to Maredsous route, a charming 6-kilometer walk. Prefer something more adventurous? Choose the Warnant to Falaën route, culminating at the impressive ruins of Montaigle.

Or combine the two for an unforgettable excursion across the entire valley! In half a day, you will discover all the treasures that the Molignée Valley has to offer.

Just a stone's throw from Falaën lies the famous Maredsous Abbey. This abbey, located in the magnificent Molignée Valley, is one of the most beautiful abbeys in Belgium. Admire the monastery 's impressive architecture during your visit.

The restaurant offers a spacious and inviting terrace, where you can enjoy the delicious beers and cheeses of Maredsous. The abbey, built in 1872 by Benedictines in a neo-Gothic style, forms a splendid architectural ensemble where pilgrims and tourists can relax.

Guided tours are also organized, during which you can discover the cemetery, the monks' garden, the ceramic workshops and the "Petit Musée du Fromage", where you will learn more about the ripening of this delicious cheese!