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Vincent JoffreyHainaut is a unique region, straddling the border between Belgium and France, with a shared natural, historical, and cultural heritage. To boost tourism and strengthen ties between these territories, the Interreg HENRIETTE project was launched in June 2024. Its development will span four years, until June 2028, to create a cross-border hiking network accessible to all.
What if you could easily create your own hiking route? Thanks to the HENRIETTE project, a network of waymarked node-to-node trails is being developed in the region of Mons, within the territory of the Nature Park of Les Hauts-Pays - offering a new way to explore the region on foot.
Inspired by the famous node-to-node bike network, this system allows you to hike freely. At each intersection, numbered markers show the direction to follow, giving you the choice between thematic routes or customized trails. No need for complex maps—just note the numbers of the nodes and let yourself be guided! By developing this walking network, the HENRIETTE project makes hiking more accessible, intuitive, and connected to nature and local heritage. Get ready for new adventures on foot between Belgium and France!
> enhancing 5 cross-border pedestrian node-to-node networks for marked and connected routes.
> developing 6 themed walking trails to explore the region from different perspectives.
> providing a network linking several key cities such as: Cambrai, Mons, Tournai, Fourmies, Douai, and Philippeville.
This ambitious project is also part of a sustainable mobility approach, highlighting natural and heritage areas while promoting sustainable tourism.
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Vincent Geoffrey
Gilliot Michel
HenrietteTo ensure the success of the project, several stakeholders are working together :
> Local committees and steering groups to develop and enhance 11 natural areas in both Belgium and France.
> Harmonized signage and activities to make the trails more attractive.
> Immersive experiences and micro-adventures, showcasing the history and testimonies of local residents.
Cédric Arnould - Département du Nord
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The plays a central role in this project, with a network extending towards the Avesnois Regional Nature Park in France. The sections will pass through the six Walloon municipalities : , , , , and .
The Tourism House of the Mons Region plays a key role in the development of the project by ensuring:
> The design of welcome and service facilities
> The installation of artistic installations along the trails
> The promotion of a cross-border tourism offer
By closely collaborating with Walloon and French operators, HENRIETTE helps strengthen the region’s attractiveness, while focusing on sustainable tourism and environmental respect.
An invitation to (re)discover Hainaut in a different way, through the trails and landscapes that define its identity!