Route UNESCO - Etape 1 de Tournai à Mons

Facing the magnificent medieval cathedral of Tournai, set out on this UNESCO route by bike! The City of Clovis opens its history book wide. A climb allows you to reach the cultivated plains: Tournai seems so close while you are already in the countryside. As you follow the junction points, you reach the Scheldt and then the marina in Péronnes. In the past, barges were built and repaired here. On the RAVeL running alongside the Nimy-Blaton-Péronnes canal, you are immersed in the world of the boatmen. Another canal, that of Condé-Pommeroeul, then takes you to the entrance of the Borinage. The region has known, since the beginning of the 19th century, a remarkable economic upturn, disregarding the inhumane living conditions in the mines. A certain Vincent Van Gogh stayed here for almost two years to find his artistic inspiration… Crossing the countryside between Thulin and Boussu, you are already at Grand-Hornu. This witness to the beginning of the Industrial Revolution is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Continuing your journey on the greenway, you catch sight of the Belfry of Mons rising up on the horizon. Let yourself be drawn into the City of Doudou for the continuation of the adventure!