Explore the Charm and Richness of Nivelles, Belgium

Welcome to Nivelles, a quaint and charming city located in the Brabant Wallon province of Belgium. Nivelles is an excellent destination for those looking to explore history, nature, and culture. With a variety of tourist attractions, this city offers something for everyone. So, pack your bags, and let's explore the richness of Nivelles together.

Historical Attractions

Nivelles is full of history, and there are several historical attractions that you should not miss during your visit.

Collegiate Church Saint Gertrude

Built-in the 11th century, the Collegiate Church Saint Gertrude is a stunning example of Romanesque architecture. The church houses intricate frescoes and features several works of art that date back to the 16th century.

Waterloo Battlefield

History buffs will be delighted to visit the famous Waterloo Battlefield that played a significant role in European history. The battle site is marked by The Lion's Mound, a 40-meter-high man-made hill with a statue of a lion perched on top. The site also has a visitor center, guided tours and you can explore the battlefield using an interactive map that will take you through the different stages of the battle.

Château de Seneffe

Located only a few kilometers from Nivelles, the Château de Seneffe is an 18th-century estate that has been converted into a silver museum. The château boasts a neo-classical style and features more than 500 pieces of French silverware.

Musée Wellington

Another historical attraction that you should not miss is the Musée Wellington in Waterloo. This museum is dedicated to the famous Battle of Waterloo and houses a vast collection of artifacts related to the event.

Nature Attractions

Nivelles is also home to several nature attractions that are worth visiting.

Dodaine Park

Dodaine Park is a sprawling park located in the heart of Nivelles. The park features a lake, playgrounds, picnic areas, and a swimming pool. It is a great place to relax and indulge in nature.

Nysdam Nature Reserve

Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the Nysdam Nature Reserve, home to a vast array of flora and fauna. The reserve features several walking and cycling trails, allowing visitors to explore the beauty of nature.

Hiking Areas

Nivelles features several hiking trails that meander through beautiful landscapes, forests, and valleys. Check out the Hiking area Av. de Vaillampont, Chemin St Pierre 30/44, and Rue de Saintes.

Cultural Attractions

Nivelles also has a rich culture waiting for you to explore.

Flight-Experience Nivelles

For aviation enthusiasts, Flight-Experience Nivelles offers an immersive experience of flying a commercial aircraft by using full-motion simulators. Whether you're a beginner or an expert pilot, this attraction will prove to be an engaging and exciting experience.

Musée Marthe Donas

The Musée Marthe Donas is a museum dedicated to the works of Marthe Donas, a pioneering Belgian artist. The museum houses several works of art by Donas that span different periods of her life, providing a glimpse into her creative genius.

Royal Nautic Club Nivellois

The Royal Nautic Club Nivellois is a prestigious sailing club located on the shores of a beautiful lake. The club offers sailing lessons, boat rentals and provides a perfect setting for spending a relaxing day by the water.

Memorials and Monuments

Nivelles honors its heroes with several memorials and monuments dedicated to different events and people.

Monument aux morts

The city's Memorial park is home to several monuments dedicated to the victims of different wars and conflicts, including the Monument aux morts 14/18, Monument aux morts 1940-1945, and Pelouse d'honneur des anciens combattants.

Colonne des Volontaires de 1830 de Nivelles

The Colonne des Volontaires de 1830 de Nivelles is a memorial park that pays tribute to the volunteers who fought in the Belgian Independence War of 1830.

Monument G. William

The Monument G. William is a memorial dedicated to an aircraft pilot who died during World War II. The monument is located in the center of Nivelles and stands as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for our freedom.

More Attractions

Apart from the above attractions, there are several other places that you can visit during your stay in Nivelles.

Wat Thaï Dhammaram

For a spiritual experience, Wat Thaï Dhammaram is a Thai Buddhist temple that offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere for meditation and relaxation.

Aventure Parc

Aventure Parc is an outdoor adventure park that features circuits through trees, forest jumps, and a kids' play area. Perfect for families looking for a fun activity.

Fondation Folon

The Fondation Folon houses the works of Jean-Michel Folon, a Belgian contemporary artist who specialized in illustrations, graphics, and sculptures. The museum is set in a beautiful castle surrounded by picturesque gardens, making it an ideal destination for art lovers.

Conclusion

Nivelles is a city that offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and nature. Whether you're an adventurer, history buff or art enthusiast, this charming city will delight you with its variety of attractions. So, come and explore the beauty of Nivelles and create memories that will last a lifetime!