Located just 15 kilometres from the city of Liège, Soumagne is part of the Pays de Herve, a natural region renowned for its rolling countryside, ancient bocage and picturesque villages. Discover this Walloon commune with JOOKS by choosing one of the 10 routes on offer!
Situated on the Herve plateau, Soumagne comprises six villages: Ayeneux, Cerexhe-Heuseux, Evegnée-Tignée, Melen, Micheroux and Soumagne-Vallée. With its picturesque landscapes of orchards and meadows, Wallonia is a popular destination for walking, but also for its gastronomy, particularly its cheeses.
A network of greenway itineraries, known as the RAVel, crosses the region. Created in 1995 by the Region, it uses the old railway line 38 at Soumagne, which in its entirety stretches between the German border and Chênée, in Liège.
To the south of the village meanders the stream of La Magne, a tributary of the Vesdre, from which Soumagne takes its origin. Although for a long time the stream was known by the Walloon term Ri de Soumagne. Since the 1960s, a cycle race has been named after it, the Grand Prix de La Magne. This sporting event, which takes place every August around the village, has attracted such great champions as Eddy Merckx.
A rich heritage to explore
Soumagne has a rich architectural heritage that bears witness to its history. The Château de Wégimont in Ayeneux is one of the highlights. This Mosan Renaissance-style building, surrounded by a sumptuous 22-hectare park, is a real gem. Since 1937, it has been a leisure centre offering a host of activities for all the family. With its shady lanes and manicured gardens, a stroll around the provincial estate is a timeless interlude.
Not far from there, the lesser-known Château de Boland is also well worth a visit. Located near Herve, this castle once belonged to the Marquises of Antwerp. Now little maintained, it nevertheless retains a mysterious and romantic aura that will enchant lovers of old stones.
The Bas-Bois colliery
As well as country walks, the Herve plateau was also the site of coal mining. This was the case at Bas-Bois, a former coal mining site that operated from the mid-19th century until its closure in 1970.
Located at the entrance to the Soumagne Tunnel, the site is notable for its metal Belle Fleur, an impressive vestige of coal mining activity. At the height of its activity, there were almost 500 workers in the galleries linking the two shafts. The deepest shaft was 350 metres deep.
The region's mining past is also reflected in its many slag heaps, artificial hills made from accumulated mine tailings. Now colonised by nature, they offer unique views over the region and have become popular walking spots.
The gentle Walloon way of life
Soumagne's appeal lies not only in its natural and architectural heritage, but also in its lifestyle. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the tranquillity of the hiking trails and the wealth of local produce. The Herve plateau is renowned for its orchards, which produce tasty fruit, and for its meadows where dairy cows graze. These cows are the source of the famous Herve cheeses, the stars of Walloon gastronomy. Be sure to sample these local delicacies during your visit!
Local markets, often held in Soumagne's villages, are the perfect opportunity to sample the region's products, including artisanal syrups, sparkling ciders and traditional charcuterie. These convivial moments allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture and meet passionate producers.
Soumagne is an exceptional playground for outdoor sports enthusiasts. Whether you're a runner, cyclist or just a walker, the signposted routes through the commune offer a variety of experiences: from leisurely strolls along the RAVeL to more intense challenges on the hilly roads of the Pays de Herve. The audio-guided routes offered by JOOKS allow you to enrich your discovery with captivating historical and cultural anecdotes.
Run, walk or cycle with JOOKS, from Bas-Bois to Micheroux station!
Find all the routes in Soumagne and over 1,500 others on the JOOKS application.
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