A detour through Honnecourt
The Cirkwi brief
Embark on a journey through the scenic valley of Haut-Escaut, walking amidst nature on a trail that not only promises breathtaking natural settings but also a chance to follow in the footsteps of the inventive Villard de Honnecourt. This circuit, designed for family outings and offered by Nord Tourisme, balances the beauty of rural paths with the enriching traces of historical brilliance. Remember to tread carefully across and along the RD 103, enriching your walk with both safety and wonder.
Brief Technical Overview
Stretching over approximately 8.12 kilometers, this walking itinerary strikes a balance with an altitude range between 75 to 129 meters, marking a modest yet engaging elevation gain and loss of 96 meters. Designed for the average walker, the route's yellow markers guide participants through varied landscapes, ensuring a clear path is maintained. It's a manageable challenge for enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the area’s natural and historic allure.
Seasonal Guidance and Safety Tips
Regardless of the season, this route offers unique charms; however, optimal experiences are found during spring and autumn, showcasing the region's lush or vibrantly hued nature. Always wear suitable footwear to navigate the occasionally uneven terrain, and carry water, especially in summer. Winter visits require caution for potential slippery paths. Important: Always respect traffic rules when crossing or walking along the RD 103 for a safe journey.
The Significance of Honnecourt-sur-Escaut
Nestled within the Nord department, Honnecourt-sur-Escaut is not just a point on a map but a portal to the past. This area, once bustling with the fervor of medieval creativity, witnessed the genius of Villard de Honnecourt, whose sketches inspire to this day. The trails and surroundings echo the rich blend of natural beauty and historical depth, offering a glimpse into the cultural tapestry of Haut-Escaut valley and its enduring legacy.
Climate Insights for Haut-Escaut
Understanding Haut-Escaut's Climate The region generally enjoys a temperate climate, marked by mild winters and warm, but not overly hot summers. Precipitation is distributed throughout the year, with wetter months slightly peaking in late autumn. For those planning a visit, the period from late spring to early autumn offers the most pleasant weather conditions, optimizing both comfort and the enjoyment of the area's natural beauty.
Technical Information
Altimetric profile
Starting point
Steps
Point 1
Dos à l’église de Banteux, prendre la route en face et descendez vers le canal. Après le pont sur le canal de Saint-Quentin, rejoignez l’église de Bantouzelle que vous laissez sur votre gauche. Traversez la RD 103 et engagez vous sur le premier chemin à droite. Ce chemin domine la vallée de l’Escaut et offre une vue panoramique sur les villages Banteux et Bantouzelle. Continuez tout droit et descendez vers la RD 103.
Point 2
Arrivé sur la RD 103, vous la longez sur 100 m avant de virer sur le premier chemin sur votre gauche. Le chemin, après un coude à droite marqué, grimpe sur le haut du plateau. Un second virage à droite entame la descente vers le canal et le village de Honnecourt-sur-Escaut.
Point 3
Dans le creux du vallon vous apparaît un panorama sur la vallée de l’Escaut. Empruntez le chemin de Vaucelles. Vous arrivez à Honnecourt-sur-Escaut : vous y trouverez gîtes, chambres d’hôtes et camping pour le repos.
Point 4
Franchissez le canal et rejoignez l’église et la place du village. Honnecourt-sur- Escaut est le village de naissance de Villard-de-Honnecourt, qui deviendra l’un des plus célèbres architectes français de son temps.
Point 5
Revenez vers le canal et, sans le franchir partez à gauche le long de ses berges. Le chemin de halage enherbé vous conduit à l’écluse de Banteux où vous grimpez à gauche à l’église.
