Summary
- Discovering the Au bord de l’Helpe gîte and its natural environment
- The criteria for obtaining the Gîtes de France label and its impact on Liessies
- The benefits of the label for rural tourism and the local economy
- Activities and leisure activities in the great outdoors around the gîte
- Prospects and future approaches for tourism development in Liessies
Discovering the Au bord de l’Helpe gîte and its natural environment
In the heart of the Avesnois region, the town of Liessies stands out for its preserved natural setting, ideal for relaxation and discovery. The Au bord de l’Helpe gîte fits perfectly into this dynamic, its riverside location offering an enchanting setting and a peaceful atmosphere. The region, known for its rolling landscapes, forests, and meadows, is a privileged place for nature and biodiversity lovers. Visitors find a true haven of peace, where ecotourism and environmental protection are emphasized. This cottage, recently renovated with respect for the local architecture, has a surface area of approximately 100 m². It can accommodate up to 5 people, perfect for a family getaway or a getaway with friends. Its proximity to emblematic sites such as the Avesnois Regional Natural Park or Lake Val Joly makes it an ideal base for exploring the region’s natural riches. The Helpe River, which borders the cottage, allows for water activities such as fishing or paddleboarding, thus reinforcing the appeal of outdoor leisure activities. The surrounding landscapes offer an adventurous environment for various types of activities: hiking, cycling, and guided themed outings. The region places a strong emphasis on ecotourism, preserving its natural spaces and promoting biodiversity. The presence of several marked trails makes it easy to discover hidden treasures, such as bird sanctuaries and rare herbariums. The region is also committed to the maintenance and renovation of these spaces, ensuring their long-term sustainability. Discover our comfortable and welcoming lodges, perfect for an unforgettable vacation surrounded by nature. Enjoy a unique experience in well-equipped accommodations, ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends. Book your getaway now and create lasting memories. The criteria for obtaining the Gîtes de France label and its impact on Liessies
To obtain the prestigious Gîtes de France label, accommodation must meet rigorous specifications, including the quality of services, maintenance, hospitality, and environmental protection. In the case of the Au bord de l’Helpe gîte, this process involved significant efforts to meet all the requirements while preserving the rustic and authentic charm of the property. The approach is part of a desire to promote local heritage while ensuring an unforgettable experience for visitors.
The key criteria for obtaining the label include:

Impeccable cleanliness and regular maintenance 🧹
Modern comfort while preserving the traditional spirit 🛏️ An ability to offer a range of services suitable for all, with eco-friendly amenities 🌱A personalized welcome with particular attention to the needs of tourists 🤝
This meticulous work ensures future guests enjoy a quality stay, synonymous with comfort and peace of mind. Recognition by Gîtes de France represents an important milestone, strengthening the accommodation’s credibility and opening up more opportunities in the tourism sector. For Liessies, this represents an additional showcase, highlighting its strengths in rural tourism and heritage conservation.
- The certification process also involved training local stakeholders, including B&B owners and nature guides, to align the offerings with the label’s standards. This local synergy helps create a collective dynamic, essential for strengthening the area’s appeal. Networking with other certified accommodations also helps expand visibility, attracting a public increasingly concerned with authentic and responsible experiences.
- Discover our comfortable and authentic gîtes, ideal for a relaxing vacation surrounded by nature. Enjoy an exceptional setting, quality services, and numerous nearby activities for an unforgettable experience. The benefits of the label for rural tourism and the local economy in Liessies
- The Gîtes de France label provides a real boost to the development of rural tourism in Liessies. It is part of a comprehensive approach aimed at strengthening the attractiveness of this small town while ensuring the promotion of local heritage. According to the latest data from 2025, the tourism sector in the region has experienced significant growth, particularly in the area of eco-friendly and authentic accommodation.
- The main benefits of the label for the region include:
- 📈 An increase in the number of visitors, particularly those interested in nature conservation.
💰 Local economic growth thanks to the influx of tourists
🔥 Job creation related to reception, catering, and accommodation maintenance

🤝 Strengthening community ties and partnerships between local stakeholders
The economic benefits are tangible: restaurants, craft businesses, and leisure activities are benefiting from this dynamic. Renovated traditional homes, such as the Au Bord de l’Helpe lodge, are now attracting a wider audience. Visitor numbers at tourist sites are expected to increase by around 15% compared to 2024, confirming the renewed appeal of this residential region near the Belgian border. Economic Impacts 🌍
2025 Statistics 📊
- Increase in tourism revenue
- +20%
- compared to 2024
- Local job creation
- 150 jobs
in the sector Accommodation attendance1,200 visitors
| per month in summer | Discover our warm and welcoming lodges, nestled in the heart of nature. Perfect for vacations with family or friends, enjoy a comfortable stay with modern amenities. Book now for an unforgettable experience! |
|---|---|
| Outdoor activities and leisure activities around the Au bord de l’Helpe lodge | The outdoor leisure sector is growing rapidly in Liessies, thanks to a rich offering tailored to everyone’s interests. In addition to fishing and hiking, several activities are designed to promote discovery and respect for the environment. For example, paddleboarding or kayaking near the lodge allows you to admire aquatic wildlife in a wild setting. All of this helps promote ecotourism, which focuses on highlighting local biodiversity. There are many activities for visitors to choose from: |
| 🚶♂️ Themed hikes through the surrounding forests and meadows | 🎣 Fishing in the Helpe River or in the nearby ponds, renowned for its quality fish 🐟 🚣♀️ Canoeing and kayaking to explore the river in complete freedom |
| 🏞️ Birdwatching, with discreet observation points | 🌿 Introductions to botany and local wildlife with specialized guides To facilitate access to these activities, several organizations are working to offer guided tours or nature workshops. Networking with local stakeholders, such as nature conservation associations or farmers, helps create a coherent and complementary offering. The region also focuses on raising awareness, particularly through events such as the “Fête de la Nature” or birdwatching clubs. These initiatives strengthen the link between tourism and ecology, for an unforgettable experience. Future prospects and approaches for tourism development in Liessies |

Steps to improve the tourist offering include:
🌳 Investing in the ecological renovation of existing buildings 🏡
🎯 Developing themed tours based on flora, fauna, and cultural heritage 🖼️
- 💻 Implementing a community-created digital platform to easily book vacations
- 🤝 Collaborate with local stakeholders to organize cultural and sporting events suitable for all.
- 🌟 Promote Liessies nationally and across Europe as a model of ecotourism.
- With this in mind, significant investments are planned to improve tourist reception, particularly by modernizing infrastructure. Raising awareness among residents through training and workshops in line with the ecological approach is also at the heart of future projects. Networking with other European sustainable tourism sites could make Liessies a must-see destination in 2025.
- Frequently Asked Questions
How do I book the Au Bord de l’Helpe gîte?
You can book online via the official Gîtes de France website or directly by phone by contacting the listed owner. Links such as “online booking” make it easier to organize your stay.
What activities are available near the gîte? Opportunities include hiking, fishing, wildlife observation, kayaking, and visiting local sites such as Liessies Abbey. The region also offers seasonal activities such as the Nature Festival and the craft market.
Is the cottage suitable for families?
- Absolutely, its capacity for 5 people makes it an ideal option for families or small groups wishing to enjoy the countryside in a comfortable setting.
- What other accommodations are available in Liessies?
- In addition to the Au Bord de l’Helpe cottage, the region offers various B&Bs, campsites, and eco-lodge rentals, often certified to guarantee a responsible and quality experience. More information is available on the official tourism website.
- Source:
- www.lavoixdunord.fr
