A thousand years of history at your fingertips
The Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse possesses exceptionally rich heritage. From Domaine de Donstiennes, you are at the heart of a region where every village tells a story. From the majestic ruins of Abbaye d'Aulne to the UNESCO belfry of Thuin, the folkloric marches and the Tour Salamandre in Beaumont, history and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to satisfy their curiosity.
Abbaye d'Aulne
Founded in the 7th century, this former Cistercian abbey boasts grandiose ruins on the banks of the Sambre. The site also houses a craft brewery and a restaurant. 15 minutes by car.
Belfry of Thuin (UNESCO)
The belfry of Thuin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, towers over the upper town. Climb its steps for a panoramic view of the Sambre and the hanging gardens below.
Collegiate Church of Saint-Ursmer, Lobbes
One of the oldest religious buildings in Belgium (9th century). Its Carolingian crypt and medieval wall paintings make it a jewel of Walloon religious heritage.
Tour Salamandre, Beaumont
A remnant of the medieval town walls of Beaumont (12th century), this tower museum traces the history of the town and the region. Just 5 minutes from Donstiennes.
Marches of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse
A unique European folkloric tradition, inscribed by UNESCO. From May to October, villages across the region stage historical military marches with period costumes, music and salvo fire.
Abbaye d'Aulne: a regional must-see
Founded around 657 by Saint Landelin, Abbaye d'Aulne reached its peak in the 17th and 18th centuries before being destroyed during the French Revolution. Its imposing ruins, nestled in a meander of the Sambre, rank among the most impressive in Belgium. The site is open for self-guided visits. The ruined abbey church, with its Gothic arches open to the sky, offers remarkable photographic perspectives. The grounds and gardens are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The on-site brewery produces abbey beers (Blonde, Brune, Triple) that you can enjoy on the terrace overlooking the ruins. On Sundays, the artisan market draws food lovers with local produce: cheeses, honeys, jams and charcuterie. Abbaye d'Aulne is 15 minutes by car from Donstiennes, or a 2.5-hour walk along the footpath.
Thuin, upper town and hanging gardens
Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Sambre, the upper town of Thuin is an architectural gem. Its 17th-century belfry is part of the Belfries of Belgium UNESCO World Heritage listing. From its summit, the view sweeps across the Sambre valley, the bell towers of neighbouring villages and, on a clear day, the hills of the French Avesnois. The hanging gardens of Thuin are unique in Wallonia. These terraced gardens, clinging to the hillside, were once tended by the residents of the upper town. Now restored, they offer a picturesque walk among cobbled lanes and old staircases. Do not miss the Grand-Place with its blue stone houses, the Tramway Museum and the descent towards Lobbes along the Sambre towpaths. Thuin is 15 minutes by car from Donstiennes.
Practical information
Distance
5 to 25 min depending on the site
Best period
Year-round (marches: May–Oct)
Recommended duration
Half a day per site
Tip
Combine Abbaye d'Aulne and Thuin in a single day