The Ronquières inclined plane: a fascinating site

To understand how it works, stop by its Visitor Centre and try its panoramic lift, a glass bridge overlooking the area. On Sundays, you can even go across the inclined plane by boat.

The longest inclined plane in the world

The Ronquières plane is one of the Parc des Canaux et des Châteaux's masterpieces: it's the most inclined in the world!

This amazing artwork comprises two fully independent tanks of 91 by 12 m filled with water, weighing between 5,000 and 5,700 tons.

You could compare them, in fact, to 2 bathtubs on wheels. They then take narrowboats and heavy boats over the 1,432 m distance between the higher and lower levels of the inclined plane - a huge time saving compared to the usual locks. Another advantage? The lower use of water involved in this artificial canal compared to traditional methods.

This incredible structure celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2018.

An immersive trail: a boat, a life

The 150 m high tower by the inclined plane can be seen from kilometres around and yes, it can be visited. At the top awaits a mind owing panorama and an immersive trail dedicated to skippers. Put your infrared helmet on and discover a boatman’s daily life thanks to 3D scenes, audiovisual techniques, giant screening walls and even automated figures.

You will get the opportunity to watch a more in-depth movie then walk to the top of the tower to enjoy stunning views over the “Little Ardenne”

You can also take a relaxing cruise toward the Ittre lock.

Visitors with specific needs

The inclined plane of Ronquières is one of the many sites certified by Access-i (meaning with facilities or/activities adapted to travellers with specific needs). You will find more details on the website to plan your visit.