August in Lille can feel heavy: the heat settles in, some cafés close for the holidays, and the craving for fresh air grows stronger. The good news? The Lille area is surrounded by parks, forests, and lakes—all accessible within an hour by train, bus, or bike. Perfect for a coliving day trip or a solo escape, here are 5 nature getaways near Lille to recharge without leaving the region.

Base de Loisirs de Willems – swimming & picnics

Just 20 minutes from Lille, this leisure base has a large lake for swimming, pedal boats, or light water sports. Big shady lawns make it perfect for spreading out with a picnic.

• Access: Ilévia bus to Willems + 10 min walk

• Hours: Open daily in summer, 10:00 AM–7:00 PM

• Why go? A mix of swimming, relaxing, and lakeside food.

• Coliving tip: Organize a “shared picnic basket” outing with your housemates.

Les Prés du Hem (Armentières) – fresh air escape

A huge 120-hectare natural park with a lake for sailing, hiking trails, and open lawns for barefoot walking. Popular with families, but large enough to find peaceful corners.

• Access: TER to Armentières + shuttle bus

• Hours: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM in August

• Why go? It’s one of the green lungs of the metropolis, ideal for a Sunday outing.

• Coliving tip: Plan a group hike + hammock nap session under the trees.

The Deûle by bike – riverside ride

The Deûle river flows through Lille and leads to calmer areas like Wambrechies, Quesnoy-sur-Deûle, or Deûlémont. By bike, it’s a cool, easy ride perfect for all levels.

• Access: Start from Quai du Wault in Lille

• Duration: 1–2 hours depending on the route

• Why go? You’ll feel far from the city while staying close.

• Coliving tip: Organize a “nature photo challenge” and share your best shots in a collective story.

Forêt de Marchiennes – shaded retreat

About 40 minutes from Lille, this forest is ideal for walking in the shade, birdwatching, or jogging. Several marked trails offer both easy and more active hikes.

• Access: Train to Orchies + carpool or bike

• Hours: Open all day

• Why go? A real “cooling” break in the woods.

• Coliving tip: Try a “digital detox” outing: no phones, just journals or film cameras.

Flemish Hills (Cassel, Mont Noir) – scenic landscapes

A bit further but still doable by train + bus, the Flemish Hills (Monts de Flandre) offer rare rolling landscapes in the region. Cassel and Mont Noir combine hikes, panoramic views, and traditional estaminet taverns.

• Access: TER to Bailleul or Cassel

• Hours: Open all day

• Why go? It feels like a mini-holiday, with a touch of Flemish culture.

• Coliving tip: End the day with a group dinner in an estaminet—local beers and dishes to share.