Terril de l'Héribus

Terril de l'Héribus is a former mining slag heap rising above the Cuesmes district of Mons, in Belgium's Hainaut province. Reaching an altitude of 137 metres and covering 18.24 hectares, it holds roughly 6 million cubic metres of material extracted from underground over decades. Today it stands as one of the region's most recognisable viewpoints and a protected site of significant biological interest.

Where did this hill come from?

The mound is what remains of the Héribus pit, the last mine operated by the Société des Charbonnages du Levant et des Produits de Flénu. The shaft opened in 1908 and stayed in operation for sixty years. It was among the most productive mines in the area: at its peak, 1,400 workers extracted up to 1,500 tonnes of coal per day using techniques that were relatively advanced for the era. Extraction finally stopped on 2 March 1968, after serious damage to the shaft lining made further work impossible. The closure carried real weight for the region — Héribus was the last coal mine in the Borinage to shut its doors, marking the end of a long industrial era in this part of Belgium.

What can you see from the top?

Access to the summit runs from the Chemin de Bavay in Cuesmes, and the climb rewards visitors with one of the best panoramas over the whole Mons area. From the top, the view stretches to the belfry and collegiate church of Mons, the Mont Panisel hill, the neighbouring Crachet and Levant slag heaps, and, on a clear day, even the Strépy-Thieu boat lifts in the distance. That sweeping outlook is exactly what makes Héribus a favourite destination for locals and visitors looking for a different perspective on the city below.

Why visit beyond the view?

The slopes show a distinctive contrast in colour, with reddish rock dominating one side and bluish rock the other — a result of thermal processes that took place inside the heap after mining ended. The terrain alternates between wooded sections and meadows that bloom from spring through late summer. This mix of habitats supports a notably rich population of reptiles and amphibians, which is why the site is managed under a dedicated conservation plan aimed at maintaining trails and ponds while controlling invasive plant species.

Frequently asked questions

Can you climb to the top of the slag heap? Yes, the site is open for walking, with the main access point from the Chemin de Bavay in Cuesmes.

How high is the Terril de l'Héribus? The summit reaches 137 metres above the surrounding area.

Is it still an active mine? No — extraction ended in 1968, when Héribus became the last coal mine to close in the Borinage.

What should visitors keep in mind? Because the site protects notable biodiversity, visitors are asked to stay on marked paths to avoid disturbing wildlife habitats.

Is the climb worth it for the view? The panorama takes in central Mons and its belfry, neighbouring slag heaps, and even the distant Strépy-Thieu boat lifts, making it one of the best vantage points in the region.