Parc des Îles, Public park in Hénin-Beaumont, France.
Parc des Îles is built on the grounds of a former coal facility and features cycling paths, walking trails, and several islands connected by footways through open areas. The layout includes water features and sections with different types of vegetation and terrain.
The site housed a coal processing facility beginning in 1930, which operated for many decades before conversion to parkland started around 2004. This shift marked the area's transition from heavy industry to recreational use.
The park demonstrates how an industrial zone was transformed into a place where people gather to walk, cycle, and enjoy nature as part of their everyday lives. You can notice this shift from past to present in the way the landscape is organized and used.
The park is best explored on dry days, as some paths can become slippery when wet. Signage marks main routes, but bringing a map is helpful if you plan to venture into less-traveled sections or navigate the various trail options.
The site features navigation courses using compasses and maps where visitors can select different difficulty levels. This activity combines wayfinding with nature exploration, giving people an interactive way to experience the terrain.
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