Discover Cappelle-La-Grande

Cappelle-La-Grande combines green spaces for relaxation with nature and science. Parc Marius Rubbens is a place for walks and exercise, while the Voie verte offers a route for pedestrians and cyclists. Le Marais offers a different nature experience, with access regulated. At the Palais de l'Univers et des Sciences, you can explore an exhibition, workshops and a planetarium.

Green spaces and exercise

Parc Marius Rubbens offers a quiet, welcoming and green setting for walks, exercise, family outings and spending the day. Its facilities include a fishing pond with piers and a fitness trail with exercise stations. The two features offer different experiences: water and piers define the pond area, while the trail focuses on exercise at the stations. This means you can plan a visit to the park for either a walk or an active time outdoors.

The Voie verte is suitable for walking and cycling. It runs from Crayhof to Lac d’Armbouts-Cappel. Clear rules apply: the route is reserved for pedestrians and cyclists; horses may use it only on the grass verges. If you plan to use the route, follow the signs on site, as the practical arrangements may change. The stated endpoints help you find your way along the route, without specifying a walking or cycling time.

Le Marais: nature with regulated access

The Le Marais wetland covers 12,000 m² and includes a pond surrounded by reeds, bulrushes and sedges. These plants define the character of the wetland. Animals that take refuge there include frogs, dragonflies, great crested grebes and marsh harriers. The animals you may encounter there can vary depending on the season.

Access is important when planning a visit: Le Marais is intended for guided visits and educational workshops and is not freely open to the public. So do not plan the area as a freely accessible place to visit; instead, look for a guided visit or a workshop. This distinguishes Le Marais from the opportunities for exercise at Parc Marius Rubbens and on the Voie verte.

Science at the Palais

The Palais de l'Univers et des Sciences has a permanent exhibition called “MISSION ZÉRO – Dunkerque en action!” It explores planetary boundaries and the development of the Dunkerque area. The exhibition therefore focuses on both ecological issues and the development of this region.

The Palais also offers science workshops on biodiversity, decarbonisation, renewable energy, food, the senses and breathing. The topics range from the environment and energy to food and human perception. If you plan to attend a workshop, check the current topics in advance. An ultra-high-resolution planetarium adds another scientific focus to the programme.

Flemish culture and trip planning

The municipality aims to promote Flemish culture. Signs reading “KAPELLE-de-GROOTE” have been installed at the entrances to the town. This local cultural connection adds a distinctive note to the nature and science themes.

When searching for a hotel in Cappelle-La-Grande, you can weigh up the different focuses of your stay: exercise and walks in the park or on the Voie verte, a guided visit to Le Marais, or science at the Palais. The difference in access is particularly important: Le Marais is not freely open to the public, while the park and Voie verte offer their own opportunities for exercise.

Discover more destinations: Marly, Ferrière-la-Grande, Lécluse, Loon-Plage, Sainghin-En-Mélantois, Honnecourt-Sur-Escaut, Bailleul, Watten

For the main travel overview: Nord.