Réserve naturelle régionale de l'Escaut-rivière

The Escaut-Rivière reserve is a 60-hectare wetland along the Escaut River with meadowland on one bank and alluvial forest on the other. The river acts as a natural boundary between these two distinct habitats that differ noticeably in their vegetation and composition.

The site received official designation as a regional nature reserve in 2011 following a 15-year restoration effort. This lengthy recovery period was essential to restore the natural habitats and their ecological systems to health.

The reserve takes its name from the Escaut River, which flows through and defines the boundary between two distinct landscapes. The pollarded willows and hedgerows visible along the banks reflect traditional land management practices that shaped this valley over generations.

A 2-kilometer trail system connects the main areas of the reserve and is accessible from the Proville town hall parking area. The terrain is relatively flat and easy to walk, making it suitable for visitors of different abilities.

The reserve hosts hundreds of documented animal species, including the rare Vertigo moulinsiana snail protected under European law. This biological richness makes it a crucial refuge for specialized creatures that depend on its particular conditions.

Location: Proville

Inception: October 10, 2011

Website: http://cen-npdc.org/sites-proteges/site-protege.html?protar_id=Mr9v6Pu

GPS coordinates: 50.16306,3.19583

Latest update: December 14, 2025 17:42