Lake Gileppe, body of water
Lake Gileppe is an artificial body of water in Jalhay that stretches about 200 meters long and is held back by a massive dam. The calm water is surrounded by green fields and forests and can be viewed from several lookout points.
The dam was built between 1867 and 1875 and was the first of its kind in Belgium, using granite to hold back the water. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, the dam was raised to store more water and meet the growing needs of nearby towns.
The lake is named after the river that feeds it and is seen by local people as an important part of their landscape. The area around the water is a gathering place for walkers and cyclists who use the quiet shore and enjoy the green surroundings.
The lake is easy to reach by car and there is free parking nearby, including spots for larger vehicles. The walking paths around the lake are well marked and easy to follow, suitable for visitors of all ages.
A large granite lion over 13 meters high stands at the dam and was assembled from hundreds of granite blocks fitted together like a puzzle. The statue was taken apart during the dam expansion in the 1960s and later reassembled in its original location.
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