Slow Nature | Office de Tourisme de Lille

Reconnect with the wild

Just a few miles from the city’s buzz, a mosaic of scenery awaits: from mysterious marshes and open plains to quiet canals and lakes. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or just soaking in the silence to catch a bird’s song or the ripple of a stream, nature is calling. Lace up your boots or hop on your bike—a vast network of trails and preserved parks is yours to explore.

Natural escapes just minutes away

The metropolis is dotted with “green lungs” where you can hit the pause button. Explore the Chaîne des Lacs in Villeneuve d’Ascq—a lush waterfront haven—or wander the Parc de la Deûle, with its sweeping landscapes of canals and tree-lined paths. It’s the perfect getaway, whether you’re flying solo or heading out with friends and family.

Looking for a true nature break? The Relais Nature in Santes is a great starting point to dive into local flora and fauna. If you’re after a “best-kept secret,” head to Les Ansereuilles in Wavrin or the Bois de la Noyelle in Sainghin-en-Mélantois. In these quiet spots, time seems to hang in the balance, marked only by the rustle of leaves.

For those who want to mix relaxation with a bit of a thrill, make tracks for the 6 Bonniers leisure park in Willems. With tree-climbing, archery, and outdoor games—plus peaceful fishing ponds—it’s a guaranteed hit for the whole family.

These are our “nature bubbles”—accessible, vibrant, and precious. Discover them at your own pace, one step (or pedal stroke) at a time.

Breathe, walk, and wonder

Choosing the southeast for your next stroll means stepping into a Slow Nature bubble. Explore the sunken lanes of the Val de Marque, walk the canal banks, or lose yourself in the leafy serenity around Sainghin-en-Mélantois.

The Fretin marshes are an invitation to slow down and look up. Grey herons, coots, and the occasional flash of a kingfisher bring the wetlands to life, especially at sunrise. With 22 hectares of protected marshland, the boardwalks and bird hides offer a front-row seat to nature’s theater.

For a walk that feels like a journey through time, follow the Saint-Piat path. This bucolic, historical trail stretches from Seclin to Tournai via Bouvines, taking you through gentle landscapes, sleepy villages, and tiny hidden chapels. A route to be savored slowly.

Cycling country: From “node-points” to the Paris-Roubaix legend

If you’d rather be on two wheels, you’ve hit the jackpot. Much of the area uses the node-point (points-nœuds) system—a clever concept from Belgium that lets you “build-your-own” adventure. For a classic ride, try the “Gardiennes de l’eau” circuit: it links Mosaïc park, the Relais Nature in Santes, and the wild beauty of Les Ansereuilles.

Even off the grid, the metropolis is crisscrossed with bike-friendly paths. You can even cruise back into Lille along the banks of the Deûle on smooth, easy-going greenways.

For the purists, one name here brings a thrill: the Paris-Roubaix Cycle Route. Ride the iconic cobbles of the North and follow in the tracks of cycling’s greatest legends on this mythic terrain.

Whatever your style, the perfect ride is waiting. Check our map and start planning your next escape.

All the walks

Family adventures: Explore, share, enjoy

Because the best way to learn is by having fun, the southeast is packed with spots where generations come together. Here is our “family-approved” museum shortlist:

Mosaïc, the Garden of Cultures (Houplin-Ancoisne): More than a park, it’s a sensory world tour with rare animals and art installations tucked into the greenery.
The Open-Air Museum (Villeneuve d’Ascq): A stroll through time among historic farmhouses. Expect live demonstrations, local artisans, and a real “old-world” vibe.
Asnapio Archaeological Park (Villeneuve d’Ascq): Step into the shoes of our ancestors. From Gaulish huts to Merovingian life, it’s history you can touch.
The Science Forum (Villeneuve d’Ascq): Hands-on science at its best. Kids can test, touch, and play—the planetarium is a definite highlight!
Maison de la Confiserie (Wattignies): A sweet trip down memory lane, telling the story of traditional candies… yes, there are tastings!

While you’re here, don’t miss our smaller gems: the Windmill Museum, the Folklore Museum in Villeneuve d’Ascq, or the Museum of Rural Life in Fretin. These are authentic, soul-soothing places where local traditions come alive.

Musée de Plein Air

Asnapio - Parc Archéologique

Departmental Science Forum

©Palace of Fine Arts|Laurent Javoy - Hello Lille

All museums and cultural venues

Walk through the centuries

In this corner of the world, history isn’t just in books—it’s something you feel. Wander through quiet villages, push open the door of a forgotten church, or stand where epic battles once raged. From memorials to fortresses, the heritage of the Lille metropolis is as moving as it is diverse.

Bouvines: Where legends were made

A major milestone in French history. In 1214, the Battle of Bouvines changed the fate of the kingdom. Today, you can trace its echoes through the village or admire the stunning stained-glass windows of the Saint-Pierre Church, which tell this epic story with incredible artistry.

Altar decorated with flowers and neo-Gothic motifs, with a statue of Saint Rita at the sanctuary in Vendeville. — ©Statue of Saint Rita at the sanctuary in Vendeville.|N. Verbauwen - OTM

Vendeville: A sanctuary outside of time

For a more intimate experience, the Sanctuary of Sainte-Rita in Vendeville draws thousands of visitors. Officially recognized as a “Sanctuary City of France” since 2023, it offers a unique atmosphere of quiet devotion and living heritage

Mémorial Ascq 1944: Lest we forget

In the heart of the Ascq district in Villeneuve d’Ascq, the Mémorial Ascq 1944 stands as a tribute to the 86 civilians massacred by the SS during the night of April 1st to 2nd, 1944. Located on the very site of the executions, the memorial places this tragedy within the broader context of the Occupation in Northern France. Through personal testimonies, historical objects, and accounts, it keeps the memory of the victims alive and invites visitors to reflect on the fate of civilians in wartime. It is a place for quiet reflection and remembrance, carrying a powerful message of peace and brotherhood.

Flers Castle, a cultural break in the middle of greenery

Nestling in the Parc du Héron in Villeneuve d’Ascq, this elegant 17thᵉ century brick and stone building embodies all the charm of Flemish heritage. In its cellars, the Château museum invites visitors to wander through modern, interactive scenographies, blending contemporary creations, know-how and local heritage. The Château is also home to one of the 5 branches of the Lille European Metropolis Tourist Office : a great opportunity to push open the door, talk things over… and leave with plenty of ideas!

Fort Seclin: a preserved military heritage

Built at the end of the XIXᵉ century, the Seclin fort is part of the fortifications known as “Séré de Rivières”, designed to defend Lille after the 1870 war. Now perfectly preserved, it houses a unique museum in its former casemates. It boasts the richest private collection of First World War artillery in France, as well as a host of objects, vehicles, uniforms and re-enactments. It’s a fascinating insight into the lives of soldiers during the Great War!

The choir of the Saint-Piat collegiate church in Seclin, with its ornate altar, sculpted white columns and coloured stained glass windows. — ©Choir of the Saint-Piat collegiate church in Seclin.|Seclin Mélantois Tourisme

In the footsteps of Saint Piat, in Seclin

The oldest religious building in the Lille metropolitan area, the Saint-Piat collegiate church has a surprisingly rich history. Beneath its neoclassical choir lies a Carolingian crypt, rare in the region, where Saint Piat, the first evangeliser of the area, is said to have been laid to rest. His tomb, surmounted by an engraved slab from the 13th century, still attracts curious visitors and those in search of contemplation. A peaceful place, out of time, to be discovered on a heritage walk.

Everything you need to know about...

Villeneuve d’Ascq: The multi-faceted garden city

With its tranquil lakes and world-renowned museums, Villeneuve d’Ascq perfectly captures the essence of our Slow Nature spirit. Whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or a fan of the great outdoors, discover our best ideas for exploring this essential “green lung” of the metropolis.

What to do in Villeneuve d’Ascq? Our top picks for a different kind of city visit.

©20191119 Pathway Villeneuve D Ascq 01 Medium|claire.poitout

Experiences to live

Explore Parc Mosaïc, garden of cultures

Follow in the footsteps of Paris-Roubaix

Feel the intensity of a match or concert

Follow in the footsteps of a nature guide

Dive into modern art at the LaM

The LaM (Lille Métropole Musée d’art moderne, d’art contemporain et d’art brut) is nestled in Villeneuve d’Ascq, in the heart of a small green setting. Its elegant architectural lines house one of the finest collections of 20th-century art in France. You’ll come across Picasso, Modigliani, Braque and Calder, as well as big names in contemporary art and striking works of art brut.

Outside, the visit continues in the sculpture park, where the works interact with the surrounding nature. It’s a museum where you take the time to look, feel and be surprised. LaM also offers a lively programme of temporary exhibitions, workshops for young and old, lectures and shows, all of which are opportunities to come back and rediscover the place in a new light.

Currently closed for renovation work, the museum is getting a facelift and will welcome you back in early 2026! We can’t wait to (re)discover it!

Discover LaM

Visit come and meet us!

The team at the Metropolitan Tourist Office welcomes you with a smile to its 5 branches in Lille, Roubaix, Tourcoing, Villeneuve-d’Ascq and Armentières! Come and explore the richness and diversity of the Lille metropolitan area, and let us guide you as you discover its hidden treasures. We look forward to seeing you and sharing all the facets of our beautiful region!