Mont Noir, Border mountain between Saint-Jans-Cappel, Boeschepe and Westouter, France and Belgium
Mont Noir is a hill standing 152 m (500 ft) above sea level on the border between France and Belgium, covered with extensive black pine forests on its slopes. From the summit, views spread across the surrounding flatlands and villages on both sides of the frontier.
The hill served as a key observation post during past military conflicts in the region. A cemetery near its base remains today as a reminder of those who were stationed there during wartime.
The mountain sits where French and Belgian cultures meet, visible in how local buildings are built and how farmers work the surrounding land. People here follow traditions shaped by influences from both sides of the border.
Marked trails from the Chemin des Anglais and other starting points on both sides of the border lead to the summit. Most paths are easy to walk, especially on clear days when the views are most rewarding.
The rock formation dates back to the Eocene period, making it older than most other hills in the area. It is also one of the few places where you can actually walk between two countries while seeing the same landscape spread before you.
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