Beautiful Belgian Walk: 130km starting from the Franco-Belgian border at Hestrud

Located right on the border, between Beaumont (B) and Avesnes-sur-Helpe (F), Hestrud is known for its border post, whose barrier, now always lifted, was not dismantled when the Schengen agreements came into effect in 1993.

Nestled in the cheerful Thure valley, Hestrud, the first French village after Grandrieu, will be the "base camp" for this walk. The first kilometers head west. In Solre-le-Château, where the imposing bell tower dominates the town, we turn left and dive into the bocage, that countryside planted with hedges where small roads wind through lush meadows, from village to village. We are in the Avesnois regional natural park: here, the landscapes irresistibly evoke Normandy. And just like there, there are apple trees for making cider and cows for producing cheese, including the formidable Boulette d'Avesnes, which is undoubtedly one of the most "fragrant" gourmet specialties in France… In Liessies, we pass by the Bergerie, a brewery where hearty plates of regional specialties will delight robust eaters. Another good address… We continue gently along winding roads through Ramousies and Felleries: check out the Museum of Beautiful Woods, set in an old water mill from 1466, still in operation.

Discover the complete walk in your Moto80 for the month of August!