Hainaut is one of the lesser-known provinces of Wallonia but, in 2015, it’s going to be one of the best places to be. Mons, the capital of Hainaut is the European Capital of culture and the city will celebrating by opening a handful of brand new museums, as well as hosting exhibitions and concerts throughout the year.
Hainaut may not be as well known by tourists, but it is home to some of our favourite attractions in Belgium. Pairi Daiza Zoo and Botanical Garden is one of the best zoos we’ve visited – anywhere. Nearby, you’ll also discover the impressive Chateau de Beloeil and Belgium’s UNESCO listed ancient boat lifts.
Some of our favourite beverages come from Hainaut as well. The Belgian Trappist beer, Chimay, comes from the region, as does our favourite Belgian sparkling wine, Cuvée Seigneur Ruffus.
In the tiny town of Binche, you can also discover one of the most unusual and fascinating cultural traditions; so special it’s been recognised by UNESCO. Each winter thousands of people gather in Binche’s streets to watch the Gilles parade through town, throwing oranges, during the Carnival celebration. Carnival is such a big deal in Binche, the town is also home to the International Museum of Carnival and Masks, which is worth visiting any time of year.
Hainaut may not have been on your ‘places to visit’ radar before, but it should be now.
While the Christmas Markets in Germany get all the hype, some of the largest and best Christmas Markets in Europe are in Belgium. Adi and I have teamed up to share the best Christmas Markets in Belgium so you can plan your holiday travels.
Monika takes a boat tour of Belgium’s waterways including the Strépy-Thieu boat lift, the Ronquières Inclined Plane, and the UNESCO-listed historic lifts of the Canal du Centre.
To celebrate my 40th birthday, I’m sharing the 30 best experiences I had in Belgium during my thirties!
We share some of our favourite gifts from Belgium you can send to friends and family back home, via Amazon; including Belgian chocolate gifts, Belgian beer baskets and a bit of quirky Belgian humour.
Belgium is a country known for its stunning architecture. Today we share our top 12 most magical castles to visit in Flanders and Wallonia.
Le Beau Velo de Ravel is a great way to explore Belgium’s hidden gems
Guest contributor, Adrian, introduces us to Belgium’s all-ages summer cycling event, Le beau vélo de RAVeL and shares why it’s a great way to discover Belgium’s hidden gems.
