Things To Do
in Colfontaine
Colfontaine is a small Walloon town in the Borinage, located just west of Mons in Belgium. It preserves a legacy of coal mining and industrial heritage while offering quiet streets, green spaces, and easy access to the cultural sights of nearby Mons. The town serves as a gateway to Borinage’s museums, canal paths, and countryside, making it ideal for short getaways or a relaxed weekend.
Visitors can explore local history, enjoy Belgian cafés, and venture into the surrounding countryside by bike or on foot.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local bakery, savoring fresh pastries and coffee. After breakfast, stroll through the charming streets of Colfontaine, admiring the quaint architecture and vibrant flowers that adorn the homes. Visit the nearby historic sites, including the beautiful Saint-Vincent Church, where you can appreciate the intricate stained glass windows.
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a traditional Belgian brasserie, indulging in regional specialties like carbonnade flamande. Afterward, explore the local shops and boutiques, searching for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts. Don't miss a visit to the Parc de la Basse Sambre, where you can unwind amidst nature and enjoy a peaceful afternoon.
As the sun sets, head to a cozy restaurant for a taste of authentic Belgian cuisine, perhaps trying moules-frites (mussels and fries) paired with a delicious local beer. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the atmosphere as the lights twinkle and the streets fill with laughter. Conclude your day by visiting a nearby pub to enjoy live music or a friendly game of darts with locals.
Begin your day with a visit to the Musée de la Vie Wallonne, where you can delve into the rich cultural heritage of Wallonia through fascinating exhibits. Spend your morning exploring the various displays, including traditional crafts and local history, to gain a deeper understanding of the region. Afterward, enjoy a light coffee break at the museum café, mingling with fellow visitors.
For lunch, head to a nearby eatery and try the local favorite, waterzooi, a creamy chicken or fish stew. Post-lunch, visit the Musée de la Photographie, where you can admire stunning photographic works and partake in workshops if available. The afternoon is an excellent time to reflect on the artistic expressions you encountered while enjoying the museum's serene ambiance.
As evening approaches, make your way to a local theater for a performance or film showcasing Belgian talent. After the show, explore the vibrant nightlife in Colfontaine, stopping by a bar to taste some local craft beers. Wrap up your cultural day with a late-night snack from a food truck offering delicious regional fare.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/espresso | $2-4 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $4-7 |
| 🚕Taxi or ride-share (1 mile) | $6-12 |
| 💻Internet monthly (unlimited) | $25-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, walkable town with easy access to Mons and Borinage heritage
- Rich industrial history and nearby Grand-Hornu site
- Pleasant canal walks and green spaces
- Belgian culinary scene with beer and chocolate close at hand
- Limited nightlife within Colfontaine itself; better in nearby Mons
- Small town feel may require trips to larger towns for major attractions
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable year-round
- Some attractions require short drives or transit to nearby towns
- "Bonjour" - Hello/Good day
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Ou est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
- "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Colfontaine
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic town squares and early 20th-century architecture provide classic street photography opportunities, especially during golden hour.
Quiet canal banks with barges, trees, and reflections, ideal for calm landscape shots.
Industrial heritage site with bold architecture and dramatic lines; great for architectural and documentary photography.
Across the close town and neighboring Mons, offering panoramic views of historic rooftops and towers.
Food in Colfontaine
Colfontaine Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich beef stew braised in beer with onions and herbs, typically served with fries or bread.
Must-Try!
Mussels cooked in white wine or beer, served with crisp Belgian fries.
Endives wrapped in ham or béchamel cheese sauce and baked until golden.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering produce, artisanal bread, cheeses, and street snacks.
Street food stalls and fresh produce stalls offering Belgian specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bonjour' in the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening; a polite handshake is common when meeting new people.
Use utensils properly, keep voices reasonable in public spaces, and say thank you with 'merci'.
Safety
Tipping in Colfontaine
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charge is often included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated but not mandatory.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, occasional rain, long daylight hours, ideal for outdoor walks and canal strolls; bring a light rain jacket.
Cold and damp with short days; plan indoor museum visits and cozy cafés; keep an umbrella for showers.
Colfontaine at Night
Hiking in Colfontaine
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle forested loop near Colfontaine offering shade and easy terrain.
Rural trails with fields and small streams on the outskirts of Mons; suitable for short hikes.
Airports
How to reach Colfontaine by plane.
Main international gateway about 60-75 minutes by car/train from Colfontaine; good for long-haul connections.
Regional airport offering European flights; typically a 45-60 minute drive to Colfontaine.
In France, a shorter flight option with train/road connections to Colfontaine; about 70-90 minutes drive.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many resident families with a mix of long-term locals and commuters from nearby cities.
Colfontaine and nearby Mons attract students and young workers due to accessibility to universities and industry jobs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular across Belgium; local clubs and friendly matches are common in and around Colfontaine.
Belgians love cycling; roads and canal paths around Borinage are popular for relaxed rides.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colfontaine.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Belgian restaurants offer vegetarian options such as vegetable gratins, salads, and cheese dishes. When unsure, ask for a vegetable-based dish or pasta and avoid meat-based broths.