Natural sites

Flémalle, a natural haven to discover

Flémalle has a remarkable natural heritage , shaped in particular by the exploitation of numerous quarries from Roman times until the 1960s.

Gradually abandoned by humans, these former quarries have given way to a rich and diverse natural environment, creating rare biotopes where remarkable flora and fauna thrive. Some smaller cavities, known as "grottoes," have also been converted into places of devotion dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes .

With 60% green spaces , 2 nature reserves and 3 Natura 2000 sites , Flémalle offers a fantastic area for nature lovers to explore.

Whether you're looking for a family stroll , a long hike , or a fun activity, there are plenty of options: treasure hunts, marked walks, and long-distance hiking trails..

To explore these landscapes, pick up our IGN map or our walking guide at the Tourist Office.

More than 40 routes are also available for free via the Cirkwi and Komoot apps.

Natural sites

Former quarries of the Awirs

Access via Rue des Awirs

The old quarries of Awirs offer an exceptional setting in the heart of the Meuse valley , particularly appreciated by climbing and walking enthusiasts.

Covering an area of 11.19 hectares , the site is characterized by its walls equipped for climbing and its network of paths crossing a remarkable mosaic of natural environments: rocky scree, limestone cliffs, dry grasslands and wastelands .

In the immediate vicinity is the site of the Schmerling caves , which testifies to the geological and archaeological importance of the valley.

The site is also accessible to families thanks to the Totemus treasure hunt.

A must-see place to combine sport, nature and discovery!

Schmerling Caves Site

Access via Rue des Awirs

Although the caves are no longer open to the public , the site is worth a visit for the beauty of its landscapes. The red earth contrasts with the grey of the rock walls and the green of the vegetation that is gradually reclaiming the old quarries.

The site once housed four caves , discovered in 1829 by the physician and paleontologist Philippe-Charles Schmerling .

His research there notably led to the discovery of two human skulls , including that of a Neanderthal child. At the time, these discoveries challenged the then-accepted ideas about human history and were difficult to acknowledge.

A few years later, discoveries made in the Neander Valley in Germany would confirm his work.

It was a close call for Neanderthal Man to be called "Awirs Man" !

The site, owned by the company Carmeuse , has been classified since 1978 .

Chokier Quarries – ""Aux Roches"" Nature Reserve

Access via Rue Houlbouse or from Flémalle-Haute station, after the footbridge

The Chokier Quarries are an essential part of the Meuse heritage .

Classified as a Natura 2000 site , the "Aux Roches" nature reserve is one of the jewels of the natural heritage of Flémalle and the Liège Meuse valley.

Several years ago, the nature protection association Natagora entered into an agreement with the municipality of Flémalle in order to create a nature reserve in Chokier.

Since then, a team of Volunteers help to raise awareness, preserve and manage the exceptional biodiversity of the site.

The old limestone quarries provide a refuge for many animal and plant species , some of which are particularly rare.

A remarkable site for observing the richness of the limestone environments of the Meuse valley.

Rognac Nature Reserve

Access is prohibited except during guided tours.

Nestled between Flémalle and Neupré , the Rognac nature reserve is a true ecological treasure.

This forest, donated in 1978 by Dr. L. Tilman to the RNOB, remained virtually untouched for almost a century. Today, it is a haven for nature and biodiversity enthusiasts.

Spanning about twelve hectares , the reserve is crossed by the Neuville stream , which joins the Meuse at the level of the Val Saint-Lambert crystal factories.

Located in the heart of the Condroz Ardennes , it is home to a remarkable diversity of natural environments that managers are committed to preserving.

In order to protect this fragile environment, the reserve is only accessible during guided tours , organised by Natagora in collaboration with the Flémalle Tourist Office .

A privileged discovery of a preserved natural heritage.