The Fond des Vaulx Valley, a habitat to be protected and enhanced
The Fond des Vaulx is a small valley covering around 15 hectares, situated just five minutes from the centre of town. It can be reached via a long tunnel under the Liège-Jemelle railway line. Before entering the valley, note on your right the resurgence of the Fond de Vaulx stream that, throughout history, fed the town and powered its sawmills and flour mills. The water source is protected against over-exploitation (such as car-washes, for example) by a decree issued by the Walloon Region and strictly applied by the local authorities. Entering this tunnel always triggers a sense of curiosity, and even a certain anxiety during heavy rainstorms that can cause the water level to rise by up to 20 cm above ground level. On the left, however, a raised pavement with a handrail allows walkers safe passage. At low speed and using caution, vehicles can also navigate the tunnel without difficulty during high water.