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Marais d'Harchies: A Birdwatcher's Paradise

Discover a biodiverse wetland in Belgium's Haine Valley, perfect for birdwatching and nature walks amidst stunning scenery and tranquil surroundings.

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The Marais d'Harchies is a stunning wetland area in Bernissart, Belgium, renowned for its diverse ecosystem and rich variety of bird species. This protected area of 550 hectares offers well-maintained trails and tranquil surroundings for nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Marais d'Harchies

  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best bird watching opportunities.
  • Bring binoculars to enhance your bird watching experience.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the trails and wetlands.
  • Check local birding reports to know which species are currently in the area.
  • Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Marais d'Harchies via public transport, take a train to Bernissart Station. From there, you can walk (approximately 20 minutes) or take a local bus to Étang Van Gheyt. Bus fare is around €2.00.

  • Walking

    From Bernissart Station, exit and head northwest on Rue de la Station. Continue to Avenue du Général de Gaulle, turn left, and follow the road until you see signs for Étang Van Gheyt. The walk is approximately 20 minutes.

  • Car

    If driving, head to Bernissart and follow signs towards Étang Van Gheyt. From the center of Bernissart, take Rue de la Station. The site is about 5 minutes from the center. Free parking is generally available near the entrance.

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Discover more about Marais d'Harchies

The Marais d'Harchies, also known as the Harchies Marshes, is a remarkable natural site located in the Haine valley, between Mons and Tournai, in the municipality of Bernissart, Belgium. This expansive wetland complex spans 550 hectares and is a haven for diverse flora and fauna, particularly birds. Recognized as a major ornithological site in the Walloon Region and a Ramsar wetland of international importance, the Marais d'Harchies offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in a rich, natural environment. The history of the Marais d'Harchies is intertwined with the region's mining past. The wetlands were formed in the early 20th century due to subsidence from mining activities, which caused depressions that filled with water. These new ponds and marshes quickly attracted the attention of naturalists, leading to initial protection efforts in the 1950s. After a failed agricultural project drained the marshes in the late 1960s, the area was purchased for protection and refilled with groundwater and rainwater. Today, the Marais d'Harchies consists of a mosaic of ponds, marshes, reed beds, and open meadows, providing ideal conditions for breeding birds and other wildlife. Visitors to the Marais d'Harchies can explore a 6.5 km circuit with seven observatories, offering excellent vantage points for birdwatching. Over 300 bird species have been observed here, including both resident and migratory species. The site is particularly important as a transit point for migrating birds and provides crucial nesting and wintering grounds. Some notable species include the Great Bittern, Black-crowned Night Heron, Bluethroat, and Bewick's Swan. In addition to its avian diversity, the Marais d'Harchies is home to a variety of plant species and other wildlife, making it a biologically rich and fascinating place to visit.

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