Canal du Centre

We travelled through Charleroi, expecting it to be a dump as it is very industrial but were amazed at the monumental structures of the old steel works which continue to function as well as recycling gigantic quantities of scrap metal to make new steel.  This was a surreal spectacle like something from science fiction.  The canal passed right through the factories.  We found it fascinating and unforgettable.

A school outing watched us "lock through"      Charleroi, steel works and big industry

Wonder of the World - The Strepy-Thieu Lift    With our English friends inside the lift

In the Strepy-Thieu Boat Lift with t'Majeur    Robert and Anne visited us for the day

Canal du Centre Historique

The most beautiful old canal with four Victorian Boat lifts (ascenseurs), one of which has been out of action for ten years, coincidentally final repairs completed while we were there.  Unfortunately we were unable to be the first to use it as the opening was delayed due to the Minister being unavailable!  However, we had a lovely week with new Dutch friends on t'Majeur and travelled the three lifts up the canal and back with them. These four ancient lifts were replaced in 2002  by the Strepy-Thieu lift, 73 metres high, a wonder of the world and we enjoyed that too. 

View from upstream Ascenseur No.1              Pump House and No.3

View up the canal                              The old lock at Thieu

Esme enters the lift                           Moored at the top with t'Majeur

Barge Association Rally

We spent a total of three weeks here and the barge rally was a great success.  Twenty-seven barges attended from Belgium, France and Holland for a weekend of meeting other barge owners and having some fun.  Aspiring barge owners also attend such events in order to research the lifestyle before deciding on barge ownership.  We were warmly received by the city of Namur at a welcome party on the first evening.  The rally coincided with the "Namur en Mai" Fairground Arts Festival weekend.  Our social events included enjoying the Festival  as well as the superb local food and hospitality.  On Sunday morning all the barges paraded before the town and entered into the spirit of "Namur en Mai".  In the evening we helped organise an international self catering meal on the quay which was enjoyed by 96 people.  The weather was perfect and many stayed over a few more days to continue enjoying themselves.

27 barges parade on the Meuse                  Rally dinner for 96

We travelled via the Charleroi-Brussels Canal and the Sambre to Namur, a beautiful mediaeval university city and the capital of the French-speaking province of Wallonia.  So much to see and do, great cuisine!  We are here for the Barge Association Rally next weekend, a chance to meet old friends and make new ones.  A walk up to the top of the citadel is a must as well as eating out in one or two of the many excellent restaurants

Namur from the citadel, Esme below right       A visit from Florence 

Another day in paradise                        Ian and Sue - more croissants!