Wallonia has unveiled 26 official outdoor swimming sites across the region this summer.
Walloon Environment Minister Céline Tellier (Écolo) announced that official bathing season was taking off on 15 May, when 20 of the spots opened to the public until 30 September.
A further ten will open on 15 June through to 15 September (the latter group will have lifeguards on-site, as per municipal rules).
The region takes pride in its bodies of water. Some such as the Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure are bordered by sandy beaches (three of them are on the official list). Another popular choice is Lake Robertville, Liège.
Lac Robertville. Credit: Visit Wallonia
The swimming areas will be subjected to regular quality checks by the Public Service of Wallonia as well as the ISSeP scientific institute. Analyses will take place every week or fortnight depending on the location.
Tellier's cabinet advises swimmers to verify the opening status of their chosen swimming spot through the official website. This is due to the possibility of temporary closures when water quality deteriorates, notably after heavy rainfall.
"My aim is for every Walloon citizen to have access to a safe recreational area close to their home to cool off," Tellier stated. "It is especially valuable for those spending the summer in our region. It's also an opportunity to discover new natural spaces just a few kilometres from home."
