Ohain – Forest, Circular Walk and Cultural Heritage

Ohain lies in an amphitheatrical setting between forests and meadows, shielded by hills and woods. At 253 metres, the commune reaches an elevation roughly equal to the highest point in the Nord département. When choosing a hotel in Ohain, you can consider whether the landscape, the circular walk or the historic buildings should be the deciding factor for your stay.

Landscape and Circular Walk

The Circuit des Chapelles et des Ailles is a 13-kilometre circular walk that takes 3 hours and 45 minutes, starting from Ohain town hall. It consists of two loops with a shared start and finish point; the route may change if a diversion is in place. The trail passes through bocage countryside and along the edge of the Fagne de Trélon forest. Along the way, it passes the Chapelle-Colonne du Saint-Sang-de-Jésus, dating from 1837, and the Chapelle du Grand Dieu. The stated distance and duration will help you decide whether the walk fits your available time. The official route leaflet was updated in 2024; follow the current trail markers along the way.

Buildings and History

The oldest surviving written mention of Ohain dates from 8 December 1180. The Chapelle du Grand Dieu dates back to the late 17th century. The oratory is made of stone and brick and has two pink stone pillars. The Chapelle-Colonne and the Chapelle du Grand Dieu thus represent different building periods, from the late 17th century to 1837.

The Église Saint-Martin in Ohain was built from grey stone between 1843 and 1845. A chapel traditionally known as “l’église de paille” was dedicated to Saint Martin. The Égayoir was built in 1833 in the centre of the village as a horseshoe-shaped structure; it is a watering trough made of dressed blue stone. As a watering trough, it served a different purpose from the chapels. Check its current location and condition before visiting. The Calvaire au Trieux de Melsart is also among Ohain’s named religious heritage sites.

Regional Food and Drink Culture

In 2024, the Brasserie de Thiérache in Ohain was described as offering the purchase or consumption of products on site, as well as group tours with tastings. According to the information provided, these tours take place on weekdays and require advance booking. Check access, opening hours, the operator and booking conditions in advance.

Le Verger Bio d’Ohain has replanted Thiérache apple varieties to continue a regional cider-making tradition. Its products include farmhouse cider, apple and pear juice, apple vinegar and preserves. The farm also produces the sparkling Poiré de l’Avesnois “Cuvée de la Reine”. The product range may change.

Discover more destinations: Haulchin, Feignies, Steenbecque, Bergues, Haubourdin, Lezennes, Dunkerque, Artres

For the regional travel overview: Nord.