Overview of the Claire-Fontaine recreational area
Located in Godarville (Chapelle-lez-Herlaimont), about 60 km from Brussels (approximately a 45–50 minute drive), Claire-Fontaine beach is nestled in the heart of a vast green provincial domain: the Domaine de Claire-Fontaine. Swimming, water adventures, and relaxation blend harmoniously in this high-quality leisure center, well known for its family-friendly atmosphere and wide range of activities.
The beach, laid out around the Lake of Godarville, features a supervised swimming area from June to August, open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM (and until 7 PM or 8 PM depending on the season). Fine sand and water slides make it an ideal spot for children, while adults can relax by the water or try out pedal boats, paddleboarding, or mini-golf.
But Claire-Fontaine is much more than just a beach: the 900 m² inflatable Aquapark, pétanque and beach volleyball courts, tree climbing course, playground, and mini-golf make it a complete holiday destination. The domain also offers a 2-star campsite, motorhome pitches, and hosts activities for groups and seasonal events.
Date of establishment :
1982
Management :
Municipality of Chapelle-lez-Herlaimont
Installations et équipements – Plage Claire-Fontaine
Facilities and amenities – Claire-Fontaine Beach
Beach infrastructure :
Address and Contact – Claire-Fontaine Domain
Address: Rue du Pont de Fontaine 42, 7160 Chapelle-lez-Herlaimont
Phone: +32 64 26 63 43
Email: info@clairefontaine.be
Opening Hours – Claire-Fontaine Domain
- From April 27 to September 30, 2025
- April, May, June & September: open Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 7 PM
- July & August: open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, extended until 8 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
Swimming Area (June 1 – August 31)
- June: open Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 6 PM
- July & August: open daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, extended until 8 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays
Water & Aquatic Activities
- Pedalos: June (selected weeks) and August 1–31 – same hours as the swimming area
- Paddle & kayak (groups): August 1–31 – Wednesday to Sunday, 10 AM to 6 PM (until 7 PM on weekends)
- Inflatable Aquapark: August 1–31 – daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, extended until 8 PM on weekends
Play Zone & Mini-Golf (April 26 – September 30)
- April, May, June & September: Wednesday to Sunday, from 10 AM to 7 PM
- July & August: open daily, from 10 AM to 7 PM (until 8 PM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays)
- Mini-golf: open during the same period, from 1 PM to 6 PM
Ticketing and Admission
The onsite ticket office operates with in-person sales only. No advance online booking is required.
- Access to the swimming area and water activities is paid on site, by Bancontact or cash.
- No booking needed for individual visits: you can come anytime during opening hours.
- Paid activities include: pedal boats, paddle-kayak (for groups), mini-golf, and the inflatable aquapark.
- Groups of 20 or more benefit from discounted rates: swimming access is €4 per adult and €2 for children/teens (instead of €5/€3).
- No limited capacity or reservation required for families or small groups.
Use of Gift Vouchers or Promo Codes
- These codes can be used only on the online booking site, for activities or camping stays — not for daily beach admission.
- They cannot be applied to lake access on the same day.
In summary: buy your tickets on arrival, enjoy all paid activities freely, and benefit from group discounts. No membership or reservation needed for individuals.
2025 Rates – Claire-Fontaine Domain
Fun Zone & Swimming (lake)
- Adults (18–59 years): €5
- Teenagers (13–18) & Seniors (60+): €3
- Children (4–12): €3
- Children (0–3): Free
Pedal Boats (30 minutes)
- 2 people: €5
- 4 people: €10
- Groups (20+ people): price upon request (can be combined with other activities)
Mini Golf (18 holes)
- Adults: €3
- Teens (13–18) & Seniors (60+): €3
- Children (4–12): €3
- Children (0–3): Free
Aquapark Xtrem Adventure (ages 6+ – swimming ability required)
- 30 minutes: €8/person
- 1 hour: €12/person
- 2 hours: €17/person
- Full day: €25/person
⚠️ Children aged 6 to 8 must be accompanied by an adult.
Aquapark Booking: 0475/23.44.46
Water Quality
The Lake of Godarville is a natural swimming area that is part of the official bathing sites network monitored throughout the summer season by the Walloon Public Service and ISSeP through regular water quality checks.
Swimming Regulations – Claire-Fontaine
- Strict opening hours: Swimming is only allowed during the official season (June 1 – August 31) and during posted hours.
- Mandatory supervision: Lifeguards are present on weekdays, with additional staff on weekends.
- Designated area: Swimming is permitted only within the marked zone to ensure safety and protect local wildlife and plant life.
- Respect for nature: Surrounding wetlands are classified as a Site of Great Biological Interest (SGIB) – access is prohibited outside authorized areas.
- Maximum capacity: The site can accommodate up to 3,000 people. Restrictions may apply during periods of high attendance or exceptional conditions.
- Personal safety: Caution is advised to prevent thermal shock (e.g., ‘cold water shock’) – wearing water shoes, sunscreen, and staying hydrated is recommended.
- Prohibited actions: No swimming outside the marked zone, no dogs, fires, or littering – visitors must follow the staff’s instructions.
Accessibility – Claire-Fontaine
By car
The domain is easily accessible via the E19 motorway (Seneffe exit), then follow signs to Godarville. Free parking is available on-site, with dedicated spaces for buses and visitors with reduced mobility.
By train
The nearest station is Godarville, about a 10-minute walk away. It is served by line S62 connecting Charleroi and La Louvière.
By bus
Several TEC bus lines serve the area, including line 167 from La Louvière. The “Parc Claire-Fontaine” stop is just a few meters from the entrance.
By bike
The domain is accessible via cycling routes from Chapelle-lez-Herlaimont, Godarville, and La Louvière. Bicycle racks are available at the entrance.
Accessibility for people with reduced mobility
The site is partially accessible, with adapted toilets and accessible paths for wheelchair users.
Tip
During summer and on weekends, we recommend arriving early, as the domain can quickly become crowded in good weather.
