Source Saint-Meen

## Overview Source Saint-Meen is a natural public drinking spring located in the Forêt de Nismes, a beautiful wooded area in the southern Belgian province of Namur. Situated near the village of Nismes in the commune of Viroinval, this spring sits within the scenic Calestienne region — a narrow limestone belt running through southern Wallonia known for its karst geology, underground rivers, and numerous natural springs. The name "Saint-Meen" (also spelled Saint-Méen) suggests a connection to early Christian or medieval religious heritage, as many springs across Belgium and northern France were historically dedicated to saints and believed to possess curative or blessed properties. Springs bearing saints' names in this region often date back centuries as pilgrimage or devotional sites, though specific historical records for this particular source are limited. The Forêt de Nismes lies within the broader Viroin river valley, an area celebrated for its rich biodiversity, limestone cliffs, and extensive network of hiking trails. The underlying Devonian and Carboniferous limestone bedrock naturally filters groundwater, which emerges at various points throughout the forest as clear, mineral-rich springs. Source Saint-Meen has historically been used as a drinking water source by locals and visitors to the forest. ## Directions 1. Head to the village of **Nismes** in the commune of Viroinval, province of Namur, Belgium. 2. From Nismes, make your way toward the **Forêt de Nismes** (Forest of Nismes), which lies to the south and east of the village. 3. The spring is located at GPS coordinates **50.0017°N, 4.4591°E**. Use these coordinates in a GPS device or mapping application to navigate to the precise location within the forest. 4. Look for local trail markers or signage referencing "Source Saint-Meen" along the forest paths. The area is well-served by marked hiking trails maintained by the commune and regional walking networks. *Note: Forest roads and paths may be unpaved. Sturdy footwear is recommended, especially in wet conditions.* ## What to Expect Source Saint-Meen is a forest spring set within the tranquil, heavily wooded landscape of the Forêt de Nismes. Visitors can expect a peaceful, natural setting surrounded by mature deciduous and mixed forest typical of the Ardennes foothills. The spring emerges from the limestone-rich ground, and the water has historically been regarded as clean and drinkable by those who visit. The surrounding forest offers excellent hiking opportunities, with well-marked trails that connect to other natural attractions in the Viroinval area, including the famous Fondry des Chiens (a dramatic limestone chasm), the Grottes de Neptune, and the Eau Noire and Eau Blanche river valleys. The area is particularly scenic in spring and autumn. Water flow may vary seasonally, with stronger output typically following periods of rainfall. As with any natural spring, water quality can fluctuate — while the spring has been used as a drinking water source, visitors should be aware that untreated natural water carries inherent risks. The forest is freely accessible to the public, and the spring is a rewarding stop on a longer walk through one of Belgium's most beautiful and geologically interesting natural areas.