La Boucle Noire (Charleroi loop, ca 22km)

On this hike we will explore a different side of Charleroi by following “La Boucle Noire”. Expect a varied mix of industrial landscapes, green spaces and former mining sites, with some surprisingly panoramic views!

We will start at Charleroi-Central station and make a loop through the western surroundings of the city. Along the way we will pass the castles of Marchienne and Monceau, explore the former mining site of Le Martinet and climb several “terrils”: the spoil heaps left behind by coal mining, now largely reclaimed by nature. These climbs will give us wide views over the Pays Noir. Charleroi is certainly not flat on this route!

●● Information about the route:
https://visitwallonia.be/nl/content/onvergetelijke-wandeling-la-boucle-noire

●● Meeting point:
We meet on Sunday at 10h57 in front of Charleroi-Central station.
If you start from Brussels-South, take IC 3130 at 10h07 direction Charleroi. Let's try to find each other in the first car of the train.

●● Back to Brussels:
We finish at Charleroi-Central station. You have two trains per hour back to Brussels.

●● Specifics:
Distance: ca 22km
Elevation gain: several terril climbs — expect some steep sections!
Net walking time: estimated ca 6h, excluding breaks
Weather forecast: to be updated closer to the hike.
If bad weather forces us to cancel, I will update this event and notify registered participants. Please check Meetup and your emails before leaving.

●● What to bring:

Comfortable hiking clothes and sturdy shoes
Rain gear
Enough water and a picnic for our breaks
Sun cream
Blister plasters
Some cash for drinks

●● Basic rules:
Only sign up if you intend to join, and change your RSVP promptly if your plans change. Please avoid last-minute cancellations and no-shows, and only come if your name is on the “going” list.
Members labelled “go-with-the-flow” will be admitted from the waitlist during the final 24 hours. I use this label after a previous no-show or a cancellation within 24 hours without a good reason.

●● Acknowledgement of member responsibility and release of liability:
Participation is voluntary. Please ensure that your fitness and insurance coverage are suitable for this hike. You take responsibility for your participation and, by registering, agree to release the organisers from responsibility and liability. We organise these walks as volunteers and cannot answer every individual message.