Villeneuve d'Ascq Hotels Villeneuve d'Ascq France Hotel Accommodation Reservations

As an eastern suburb of Lille, Villeneuve (literally meaning 'New Town') occupies a prime position overlooking some of the department's best countryside. The local 'Lakes Chain' contains both natural and man-made rural areas all immediately accessible from the town. They include Heron Park, home to 200 species of birds; the 10 hectares of forest on the Marchenelles Hills; and the modern Parc Urbain, with its scenic wooded paths and picnic areas. A number of leading-edge attractions, such as the Forum des Sciences (an interactive science and technology centre with an awe-inspiring planetarium) can also be found here. The town's main asset, however, is its extensive repertoire of museums. Most notable is the Lille Modern Art Museum, which boasts Cubist masterpieces by Picasso and Georges Braque. Others of interest include the charming open-air Windmill Museum; Asnapio, a village of reconstructed buildings stretching from Neolithic times to the Middle Ages; and the Museum of Rural Life. Le Musee de Plein Air focuses on the Flemish way of life, and is well worth a look in order to understand a culture and language that still exist here today. One of the best things about Villeneuve is that the town, the countryside and its attractions are all within easy reach of one another - sometimes literally a stone's throw away. If you're still in need of directions, however, check-in to the tourist office (located in the splendid 17th-century Chateau de Flers) for help. Just to the east of Lille and home to the cite scientifique. A couple of local museums worth a visit. Musee des Moulins inclused the only still working wind powered linseed mill in the world.