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Ronquières Inclined Plane
The Ronquières inclined plane is a monumental boat lift built between 1960 and 1968 on the Charleroi–Brussels canal.
It is located on the border between the provinces of Brabant and Hainaut. Its construction was part of the general modernization plan of the canal to upgrade it to 1350 tons. As a publication of the time aptly put it, here “boats travel on wheels.” In short, the principle of the Ronquières inclined plane is very simple.
The inclined plane mainly consists of two fully independent water-filled caissons, 91 meters long and 12 meters wide, with a water depth ranging from 3 m to 3.70 m and weighing approximately 5600 tons. These caissons roll lengthwise on concrete tracks that are 1440 meters long.
By climbing a slope of 68 meters, the Ronquières inclined plane saves no fewer than 18 locks, a huge volume of water, and nearly a full day of navigation for each barge.
More info at: www.belgique-tourisme.be
Flight duration:
approximately 1 hour
Total duration of the experience:
approximately 3 hours
HOW TO GET THERE?
E42 motorway, exit 18
E19 motorway, exit 20
Direction: Ronquières Inclined Plane
Address
Rue Rosemont (lawn located next to the inclined plane)
7090 RONQUIÈRES (BRAINE-LE-COMTE)
Latitude-Longitude
50°35'33.1"N 4°13'09.7"E
A place to have a drink or eat nearby: In addition to its function as a reception pavilion, the Visitor Centre of the Inclined Plane also allows you to observe the entry and exit of boats in the caissons from glass walkways overlooking the site and accessible via panoramic elevators. It is also equipped with a self-service cafeteria where you can have a snack or enjoy a picnic.
