Sailly-Sur-La-Lys between the Lys, nature and history

Sailly-Sur-La-Lys offers a range of options for a trip: paths along the Lys and through wet meadows, historic churches and buildings, and traces of the textile industry. When looking for a hotel, you can decide whether nature trails, architecture or a mix of these themes should shape your stay.

Nature and paths along the Lys

The Prés du Moulin Madame Regional Nature Reserve was established in 2015 and covers 9.0693 hectares in Sailly-Sur-La-Lys. It is one of the last examples of alluvial hay meadows in the lower Lys area. A marked path runs along the Lys and through flowering wet meadows, with several information panels along the way. The area is home to 144 plant species, including 14 of particular conservation value because they are threatened, rare or legally protected. The grounds, path and panels give a visit a focus on nature and landscape.

The Chemin Champêtre is another way to explore the area on foot. This easy hiking trail is 9 kilometres long, with an indicated duration of 2 hours and 30 minutes. It passes between fields, the nature reserve and the towpaths along the Lys. The town hall or the post office on Rue de la Lys serve as starting points. The distance and stated duration help with planning your day, while the route brings fields, the reserve and the riverbank together in a single walk.

The banks of the Lys also offer a hiking trail, a nautical landing stage and a fitness trail with 15 stations. La Lys à vélo is described as a river-tourism activity along the river and is suitable for families and friends. The options offer different ways to enjoy the area: a riverside path, fitness trail stations or an activity on or along the Lys. When planning, you can choose between hiking, exercising by the water and cycling.

Buildings and local history

The Maison de la Prévôté is the oldest building in the municipality. It was once the residence of the Prévôt and is now a listed monument. It lies between the Church of Saint-Vaast and the Lys. The Prévôté included a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary, living quarters, prisons and a courtroom. The entrance was rebuilt in 1612 and protected within a fortified enclosure by two semicircular sandstone towers. This building brings together former administrative and judicial functions with striking architecture.

The Church of Saint-Vaast was rebuilt in 1613 and has three naves and a porch. The present sanctuary was consecrated in 1928; its tower was rebuilt in white stone and brick and stands 45 metres high. Inside are an altar with a statue of the saint and three large windows depicting scenes from his life. The building’s history and interior offer several ways to explore the town’s religious heritage.

Bac-Saint-Maur also illustrates the connection between industrial history and religious architecture. The church there was created by converting a factory warehouse built in 1900 and is located in an industrial area associated with the Salmon spinning mill. In 1914, the Auguste Salmon textile complex in this neighbourhood comprised a linen spinning mill and three linen weaving mills. The Chapelle Notre Dame de la Consolation is considered one of the few buildings in Sailly-Sur-La-Lys that were not destroyed during the First World War. The Maison du billard is one of the municipality’s attractions and is associated with Flemish games.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Saint-Laurent-Blangy, Clerques, Vaulx, Bainghen, Le Ponchel, Acquin-Westbécourt, Rodelinghem, Warlus

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