Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium’s Most Scenic Train Route

Post Published November 6, 2024

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Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Ancient Bell Tower and Medieval Gardens in Thuin by Train from Brussels South





Thuin, a picturesque town nestled near the Thuin train station, is a convenient day trip from Brussels South. You can reach Thuin within about 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours by taking an intercity train to Charleroi South, followed by a regional train. The journey's affordability is a plus, with train fares starting as low as 12 euros, making this a budget-friendly excursion. Thuin's charm lies in its well-preserved medieval heritage. Its remarkable Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a testament to the town's rich history and architectural prowess. Equally captivating are the medieval hanging gardens, 200 tiered gardens cascading down a hillside overlooking the Sambre River. These recently restored gardens offer breathtaking views and a unique artistic journey, connecting Thuin's past with its present. They showcase the town's artistic heritage and the innovative landscape design that shaped Wallonia's culture.

Besides its architectural marvels and gardens, Thuin has a vibrant cultural life, evident in events like the Saint-Roch marches. This remarkable festival, where participants dress in Napoleonic-era uniforms, provides a glimpse into the region's unique folklore. While not a major tourist destination, Thuin has a lot to offer travelers and locals looking for a change of scenery. It's truly a hidden gem, a place many locals may not have experienced, and it's worth a visit.

Thuin, a quaint village just a short walk from the train station, is easily accessible from Brussels via a convenient rail link. The journey itself, involving a transfer at Charleroi South, takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to 2 hours using a combination of intercity and regional trains.

The prominent feature of Thuin is its Belfry, a 47-meter tall bell tower dating back to the 14th century. This impressive structure, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stands as a testament to the medieval period's architectural prowess and craftsmanship. The engineering behind its construction, including the clever use of counterweights and pulleys for bell ringing, reveals the advanced mechanical knowledge of the era. The bell itself, with its intricately designed phasing system for distinct tones, shows the dedication to sound quality that early bell-makers possessed.

However, Thuin is more than just a bell tower. The town's 200 terraced gardens, perched on a steep hillside overlooking the Sambre River, provide a captivating and unusual visual landscape. The gardens, carefully restored, showcase the long-standing relationship between the region and horticulture. The tiered structure, maximizing sun and drainage, reflects common agricultural practices of medieval Europe—a design principle likely dating back to the Romans. These gardens are not just a picturesque landscape. They serve as an evolving collection of botanical elements, with many plants holding a long tradition in local herbal medicine. The climate itself plays a significant role in allowing for the thriving of certain species, offering a glimpse into biodiversity during the Middle Ages.

Beyond these features, Thuin's historical significance expands further. It was once a vital center for textile production, highlighting the historical relationship between industry and local communities. This historic industry shaped the town's development and has left a unique mark on Thuin's identity. It's fascinating that a village like Thuin, with its intriguing historical heritage, remains relatively unknown even to some Belgians, positioning it as a delightful hidden gem for those who seek more than just typical tourist spots.

A trip to Thuin can also be quite budget-friendly. Train travel from Brussels South Station costs as little as 12 euros, offering a great opportunity to explore this historical town without breaking the bank. Moreover, the train journey itself offers a scenic perspective of the country's railway history, a legacy of 19th-century engineering endeavors that helped build Belgium's transport network. Thuin, with its UNESCO World Heritage site, ancient agricultural methods, and unique botanical elements, presents a charming and relatively uncrowded alternative for those seeking a historical and picturesque day trip from Brussels.

What else is in this post?

  1. Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Ancient Bell Tower and Medieval Gardens in Thuin by Train from Brussels South
  2. Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Medieval Citadel and Saxophone Museum Stop in Dinant
  3. Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Train Break at Namur Fortress and Local Cheese Market
  4. Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Waterloo Train Station and Battlefield Defense Lines
  5. Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Lier Historical Center and Astronomical Clock Tower
  6. Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Natural Reserve Les Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure Train Stop

Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Medieval Citadel and Saxophone Museum Stop in Dinant





Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium’s Most Scenic Train Route

Dinant, conveniently reachable by train from Brussels South Charleroi, offers a delightful mix of history and culture, making it a worthwhile stop on a scenic route to Venice. The town's star attraction is the impressive Citadel of Dinant, dramatically situated 100 meters above the Meuse River valley. Within its walls, you'll find intriguing exhibitions that chronicle the town's story, along with glimpses into its past through dungeons and displays of old weaponry. Dinant is also the birthplace of Adolphe Sax, the inventor of the saxophone. A small museum dedicated to his life and work, Maison de Monsieur Sax, is a testament to his musical legacy. The Charles de Gaulle Saxophone Bridge, a rather unusual landmark, features 28 saxophones, each representing a different European Union nation, further celebrating the instrument's Dinant origins. Beyond these attractions, Dinant boasts charming architecture, inviting pubs specializing in regional beers, and stunning views along the Meuse River. It's a picturesque destination that offers a blend of historical insights and local experiences, perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of cultural exploration and scenic beauty.

Dinant, easily reached by train with a transfer at Namur from Brussels, offers a fascinating blend of medieval history and a unique musical tribute. Its most prominent landmark, the Citadel, perched 100 meters above the Meuse Valley, is a testament to medieval military engineering. Built in 1051, its strategic position controlled the river valley, a classic example of how fortifications leveraged natural geography. Inside, exhibits trace the town's history, from its dungeons and kitchens to a museum showcasing weaponry, offering a glimpse into the past's tools and defenses.

The Citadel’s gardens also whisper stories of the past. The selection of plants highlights the medieval era's reliance on herbal medicine, a testament to the relationship between human health and the natural world.

Dinant's association with the saxophone, however, is equally intriguing. The Charles de Gaulle Saxophone Bridge, featuring 28 saxophones, pays homage to Adolphe Sax, Dinant's native son and the instrument's inventor. The Maison de Monsieur Sax, a small museum at his birthplace, provides a deeper dive into his life and work. The saxophone, a marvelous invention, is the product of thoughtful design. Its shape and tone holes, crucial to sound production, demonstrate the intricate relationship between physics and music that's reflected in the craft.

Beyond these, Dinant's attractions include the impressive Cathedral of Notre Dame, a showcase of architectural style, as well as pubs serving local brews. Exploring the town offers more insights into Belgian history. The Grotte la Merveilleuse caves and Parc de Furfooz are fascinating, as is the Château de Vèves, with its hints at historical regional power. Even the Maison Leffe Beer Museum helps uncover the brewing traditions of the region.

The Citadel provides an amazing view over Dinant and the Meuse. You'll notice charming architecture in the streets, alongside panoramic views of the river, as well as how the city itself is framed within the larger landscape. Its festivals and events celebrate local heritage and music, highlighting a cultural vibrancy that has existed for centuries.

Dinant, a town that effectively balances history and music, reminds us that both technology and culture are intricately linked to human expression. It showcases the enduring impact of ingenious creations alongside historical structures that speak to a long-past era of conflicts and governance, making it a truly noteworthy stop along the scenic Belgian train route.



Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Train Break at Namur Fortress and Local Cheese Market





A train journey through Belgium offers numerous hidden gems, and Namur provides a fascinating stopover brimming with history and culinary charm. A short train ride from Brussels, Namur's centerpiece, the imposing Namur Fortress, offers panoramic views of the Meuse River and provides a window into the region's rich past. Its strategic location, a testament to past conflicts and military engineering, adds a layer of intrigue to its beauty. Nearby, the local cheese market provides a contrasting but equally enriching experience, showcasing Wallonia's distinct cheesemaking traditions and local culinary heritage.

The combination of historical context and local culinary offerings paints a captivating picture of Namur's character. It's a reminder that even within a relatively short train ride, a traveler can find a remarkable blend of history and cultural traditions that often go unnoticed in larger cities. The journey offers a change of pace and environment, showcasing a different side of Belgium that effortlessly combines the past and present, perfectly complementing a broader journey through the nation's scenic landscapes. On a scenic route through Belgium towards Venice, Namur's hidden gems invite a pause and a deeper look at the region's character, a reminder that the unexpected is sometimes the most memorable part of a travel experience.


### Train Break at Namur Fortress and Local Cheese Market

The Namur Fortress, situated at the confluence of the Sambre and Meuse rivers, is a testament to strategic engineering from the 10th century. Its design incorporates sophisticated water management systems, showcasing the historical understanding of fluid dynamics. The ingenious approach to harnessing the rivers' power is remarkable considering the era.

Namur's geographical features influence the local cheese production, particularly the renowned "Heritage Cheese". The varied microclimates fostered by the surrounding hills create a biodiversity that leads to unique cheese flavors. The range of livestock used for milk production further underlines the specific agricultural techniques employed in this area. It's intriguing how a place's environment and human decisions lead to such distinct taste experiences.

The production of many Namur cheeses relies on traditional fermentation methods that utilize naturally occurring microbes in the region. This is a sustainable approach and underlines how a scientific understanding of microbial life was utilized in creating delicious products centuries ago. Using wild cultures in the cheese-making process contributes to the complexity and depth of the cheeses’ flavors, offering an intriguing insight into food chemistry.

Namur Fortress played a critical role in European military history, especially during the Wars of the Spanish Succession. The design features, such as glacis and bastions, were cutting-edge for their time. The fortifications allowed for superior defense against artillery, showcasing a remarkable evolution in defensive strategies during that period. It's fascinating how fortifications evolved in response to new military technology.


The local cheese market highlights a focus on direct trade between farmers and consumers, promoting freshness and quality. The farmers' dedication to artisanal methods implies strict adherence to specific chemical processes that maximize the cheese's taste and nutritional value. Understanding the intricate chemical changes during cheese-making is a complex but interesting field.

Pairing local Namur cheeses with regional beers is a testament to the area's culinary heritage. The intricate chemical interactions that occur between these elements, with certain cheeses enhancing the beer’s aroma, highlight the dynamic between the two substances. The interplay of fat content and acidity levels in the cheese with the beer's properties is an area that chefs and food scientists continue to research.

The restoration of the Namur Fortress represents much more than simply maintaining a structure. It's about preserving a collective memory and identity. Each layer of history unearthed provides insights into the engineering techniques and societal structures of past communities. It's amazing what information can be learned through meticulous archeological study and architectural design.


The cheese market's contributions to the local economy are evident. Studies show that artisanal cheesemaking can offer higher economic returns than mass-produced dairy goods. The demand for authentic and locally sourced food drives the economic model of smaller production runs. It highlights a shift in consumer desires and the economy that serves those desires.

The "Voies de la Vallée" exemplifies the relationship between tourism and preserving historical architecture. The route visitors follow through the fortress showcases how modern infrastructure can aid exploration of historical sites. It is interesting to observe how engineers today can integrate tourism within the environment in order to show off the importance of the location.

The small farmers who produce cheese around Namur employ unique rotational grazing techniques to enhance the flavors of their cheese and improve soil health. These practices demonstrate centuries of agricultural knowledge applied to sustainable livestock management without the need for modern chemical additives. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the ingenuity of farmers adapting to the challenges of animal agriculture in the past without the scientific discoveries available today.





Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Waterloo Train Station and Battlefield Defense Lines





Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium’s Most Scenic Train Route

Waterloo Train Station offers a convenient starting point for exploring the renowned Waterloo Battlefield, a significant site in Belgian history. It's a short, roughly 17-minute train ride from Brussels-Midi, with tickets costing between €4 and €7, making it a reasonably priced option. While Waterloo Station is relatively close to some key landmarks, the nearby Braine-l'Alleud station might be even more convenient, being just a 3-kilometer trip from the iconic Lion's Mound, which you can easily reach via a short bus ride.

Keep in mind that the battlefield is extensive and requires a substantial time commitment—plan for about 12 hours to fully immerse yourself in the various exhibits and historical sites it offers. To make the most of your visit, consider the Waterloo Battlefield Pass, which provides access to the main attractions like the Visitor Center, the Lion's Mound, and Hougoumont Farmhouse for €27. It's a cost-effective way to explore everything this significant site has to offer and a useful investment for those who have an interest in the history of this important battlefield.

This combination of historical importance and ease of access makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking to delve into Belgium's rich history while also enjoying the surrounding landscapes.

### Surprising Facts About Waterloo Train Station and Battlefield Defense Lines


Waterloo Train Station, a central rail hub in Brussels, is architecturally interesting due to its series of viaducts and bridges, which were specifically designed to accommodate high-speed rail traffic. This structure exemplifies the impressive engineering advancements that have occurred in the region since its modernization. The station's design is, to a certain extent, a testament to the evolution of transportation infrastructure and how it caters to modern needs.


The nearby Waterloo Battlefield, famous for the 1815 battle, has an extensive network of defense structures, including earthworks and the iconic Lion's Mound. The Lion's Mound, a prominent memorial offering a breathtaking view of the battlefield, showcases centuries-old principles of military fortification. Its existence is a reminder of how strategic planning and construction were utilized to gain a tactical advantage in battle.


It's also important to consider the surrounding geography of Waterloo. The terrain played a critical role in the 1815 battle. The defense lines, strategically located, were built to optimize visibility and maximize advantages for those fighting on the field, highlighting a sophisticated understanding of landscape and its influence on combat tactics.


The battle itself highlights the crucial role artillery played in shaping its outcome. Cannons, a testament to the advancements in ballistics and projectile motion, were strategically positioned along defense lines. The sophisticated designs and placement demonstrate a level of engineering know-how that continues to influence the development of modern artillery systems.


The design of Waterloo Train Station itself was partly influenced by the battlefield's historical context and the desire to make the site more easily accessible to those who wanted to learn about it. It reveals how urban planning and transportation networks can be utilized to support tourism and the preservation of historically significant locations.


Significant restoration projects have been carried out to maintain the Waterloo battlefield's historical integrity. These efforts involve a complex analysis of soil composition and the impact of plants to ensure the landscape mirrors the 1815 battlefield's historical context. This blending of historical preservation and environmental science is crucial to a proper understanding of how these landscapes influence the broader narrative of the past.


The defense lines at Waterloo demonstrate early uses of earthworks, an engineering practice dating back to prehistoric times. The creative use of natural materials like earth and wood underscores ancient engineering practices which are still relevant in modern civil engineering.


The Waterloo Battlefield and its surrounding areas are seen as a significant cultural heritage site. This has impacted local architectural styles which reflect the Belle Époque architectural style of the late 19th century, a period where grand and decorative design gained prominence.


Waterloo Train Station significantly enhanced access to the battlefield, which had a profound impact on tourism. The positive economic effects of increased tourist access demonstrate how transportation engineering can be beneficial to local economies and aid in the preservation of historical sites.


The Lion's Mound is a unique example of engineering used for commemorative purposes. Designed with precise geometric calculations, it's a structure that honors those who fell at Waterloo while serving as an architectural landmark and a physical embodiment of local pride and historical significance. The Lion's Mound reminds us of the ability of engineering to go beyond purely functional requirements and contribute to broader narratives of human memory.



Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Lier Historical Center and Astronomical Clock Tower





Lier, a town often bypassed by travelers, offers a delightful blend of history and charm, making it a welcome break along the train journey between Brussels and Venice. The town's heart is its historic center, anchored by the impressive Zimmer Tower, a remnant of Lier's 14th-century fortifications. The tower is most famous for its ornate Jubilee Clock, the brainchild of Louis Zimmer, a renowned clockmaker and astronomer. This complex clock, one of the most intricate in the world, incorporates multiple dials, zodiac signs, and a globe, highlighting Zimmer’s astronomical expertise. Every day at noon, it springs to life with a fascinating procession of mechanical figures, a clever interplay of engineering and artistic design, featuring depictions of the Belgian monarchy and more. While Lier might be a less well-known destination in Belgium, it maintains a quaint, medieval atmosphere, especially in the Grote Markt, its main square with its Flemish-Rococo town hall and belfry. The slow-moving river Nete, meandering through Lier, only adds to the serene, timeless atmosphere, providing a picturesque backdrop for a journey through Belgian history and culture. It's a place that allows you to delve into a more authentic side of the country, away from the crowds that frequent better-known Belgian cities.

### Surprising Facts About the Lier Historical Center and Astronomical Clock Tower


The Zimmer Tower, also known as the Cornelius Tower, is a historical structure in Lier, Belgium, initially part of the city's 14th-century defenses. It's quite interesting to observe the evolution of this tower, especially how its engineering features have changed over the centuries, reflecting various architectural styles and engineering trends. The construction reveals a sophisticated understanding of structural engineering, even by the standards of its time.

The Jubilee Clock, crafted by the astronomer and clockmaker Louis Zimmer in 1930, is a true marvel. It's remarkable how Zimmer was able to incorporate 12 different clocks into the design. The clock's astronomical features showcase how astronomy, engineering, and mechanics intersected in the early 20th century. The clock's complex dials and its ability to display zodiac signs and even a globe make it one of the most complicated clocks ever constructed.

One has to wonder about the technical challenges Zimmer faced building the clock. Did he encounter unexpected mechanical issues, and how did he resolve them? It's intriguing to imagine the meticulous planning and craftsmanship that must have gone into developing such a unique and complicated instrument.

Adjacent to the Zimmer Tower is a museum dedicated to Louis Zimmer. The museum includes a stunning array of astronomical clocks and figurines that are animated at certain times of the day. The figures seem to spring to life, which surely would have been a major spectacle in the 1930s.

It's curious to observe how Zimmer's clock has evolved from its initial construction to the present. Did Zimmer conceive of the animated figurines from the beginning, or were they added later? It appears to have been a gift presented to the city of Lier in 1928 to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Belgian independence. The design and engineering involved in building the 16 foot tall, 4,500 pound clock must have been a tremendous accomplishment.


Beyond the clock, Lier boasts a medieval Grote Markt square. The town hall exhibits a Flemish-Rococo style, a beautiful and ornate architectural style, which is set next to a 1369 belfry. The architectural diversity provides a delightful mix of the region's architectural development. The clock tower itself has been modified several times, with Gothic and Baroque styles adding layers of visual richness to the structure.



One can only imagine the scene when the Jubilee Clock was first activated. The appearance of Belgium's first kings from the south face of the tower at noon must have been quite a sight, highlighting the interaction of art and engineering. The tower represents the engineering prowess and craftsmanship that have been valued throughout the city's history.

Lier's beauty is further enhanced by the Nete River, which flows through the city. The river and its banks provide picturesque views and offer a beautiful backdrop for the surrounding historical architecture. It appears to be a beautiful destination, blending historical charm and the tranquility of the river, which must enhance the quality of life for its inhabitants.


It is intriguing that Lier has remained a less-visited part of Belgium, as it offers a glimpse into the historical fabric of the region and showcases the talent of individuals like Louis Zimmer. This makes Lier a hidden gem within Belgium's rich cultural heritage. It's fascinating that a town with a such a unique landmark as Zimmer's tower and a rich history is still relatively unknown, potentially a rewarding location for a casual visit for those looking to discover a little-known part of Belgium.



Brussels South Charleroi to Venice 7 Hidden Gems Along Belgium's Most Scenic Train Route - Natural Reserve Les Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure Train Stop





Located a short 32-minute train ride south of Charleroi, the Les Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure Natural Reserve presents a tranquil escape. It's Belgium's largest lake complex, featuring five man-made lakes surrounded by a vast expanse of woods and fields. Visitors will find a wide array of outdoor and indoor activities, from sports and water-based recreation to leisurely strolls. The reserve is incredibly popular with anyone who wants to get away from it all and connect with nature.

Getting to the reserve is fairly easy. The LeTEC bus route connects with the train network in Walcourt. If you travel from Brussels, the first train each day leaves at 5:37 AM. It gives you the flexibility to maximize your time at the reserve. You can simply hop on the train and be ready to explore the outdoors almost as soon as the day begins.

The Plate Taille Lake is a favorite among visitors for its mostly flat terrain, perfect for hiking and biking. The area features 70 km of lake shores and about 100 km of well-maintained walking paths. It's promoted as a real jewel of Walloon tourism, a reminder that Belgium has much to offer besides the standard tourist stops. Whether you're looking for a day of outdoor adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, Les Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure has it all, highlighting the natural beauty that lies in this part of the country. It can be a welcome break if you're traveling by train between Brussels and Venice.

Les Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure train stop provides access to a fascinating natural reserve that's a testament to Belgium's ability to repurpose industrial landscapes. This complex of lakes, the largest in Belgium, was created by flooding former coal mining areas, a stark reminder of the region's industrial heritage. The water management system itself is a marvel of engineering, carefully controlling the levels and quality of the water across the multiple lakes—Lac de l’Eau d’Heure, Lac de la Plate Taille, Lac de la Virelles, and Lac de la Basse Seine. This engineered environment, though artificial, has fostered a rich biodiversity, attracting over 200 bird species and creating a haven for various wildlife.

The artificial lakes also play a role in the region's energy production, generating hydroelectric power. It's a clever way to integrate renewable energy sources into a recreational space, blending practical applications with a leisure environment. The engineering of the recreational infrastructure is equally impressive, with well-designed pathways and facilities that allow visitors to enjoy the landscape while considering the site's original topography. The area's transformation from coal mining hub to a nature reserve is quite a shift in economic focus.

The network of pedestrian bridges across the lakes, including a prominent suspension bridge, is a noteworthy aspect of the area. These bridges emphasize a balance between functionality and design—they facilitate movement while providing spectacular views. Water sports enthusiasts find the lakes ideal for a range of activities such as kayaking, sailing, and jet skiing, a testament to the engineered environment that facilitates these pursuits. Furthermore, sophisticated sensor technology monitors the ecological health of the reserve, showcasing how engineering can support environmental conservation efforts. The site also sees a range of cultural events, from concerts to festivals, highlighting how engineering can also enhance the social fabric of the area by creating pop-up infrastructures.

Les Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure is an intriguing example of how a region can reclaim its industrial past. It's an area that cleverly combines leisure, energy generation, and environmental responsibility, offering an interesting case study in innovative landscape management and engineering. For visitors, it's a place that offers a blend of nature, recreation, and surprising historical echoes, making it a worthwhile train stop on the journey from Brussels to Venice.


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