ケヴィーのおすすめツーリングルート

like a little trip to the moon...

The Ronquières inclined plane is a unique boat lift. Built in 1968, it allows barges to overcome a drop of nearly 70 meters thanks to a system of sliding trays. The structure can be observed from the cycle path along the canal.

very beautiful Ravel to stroll along

Ronquières, elevator to see

The Ronquières inclined plane is a ship lift near the Belgian village of Ronquières. It is an inclined plane on the Charleroi-Brussels Canal. It bridges the height difference with the Hainaut Plateau. The inclined plane was completed on 1 April 1968 after a construction period of six years. The plane is 1400 metres long and bridges a drop of 68 metres, with a gradient of almost 5%. There are two ship barges, each 85.50 metres long and 11.60 metres wide. The barges run like wagons on rails and are moved by cables. Each barge has its own counterweight, which runs on rails under the barge. The barges can thus operate independently of each other, which is important for maintenance and in the event of any malfunctions. In such cases, the plane continues to operate, but with limited capacity. The total cost of the work was approximately 3.1 billion Belgian francs (approximately €77 million), about twice as much as was thought at the start of construction. The plane is self-sufficient in energy. Next to the slope is a pipe through which water flows that drives a turbine, which provides the electrical energy for the work of art.

Lift No.4 on the old Canal du Centre at Le Roeulx is a beautifully preserved boat lift from the early 20th century, and a masterpiece of industrial architecture. Made from steel and sheet metal, this historic lift lifts boats between different water levels and remains an impressive sight in the landscape. A visit to this unique UNESCO World Heritage site offers a fascinating insight into the engineering feats of yesteryear and the rich history of Hainaut’s waterways.

Incredible bike ride along the canal

Lock complex where ships are pulled up and down the Ronquières slope in barges.