Ardennes
A powerful, almost magical area where Rimbaud, Verlaine and so many others shaped their imaginations, Ardennes is a real jewel of unspoilt nature where centuries of history have also left their legacy.
A land that breathes inspiration
With its dozen listed natural sites and Regional Nature Park, the département of Ardennes in the Grand Est is a true paradise for nature and biodiversity. A magnificent, almost magnetic land where countless artists have come to draw limitless inspiration.
There’s also a legendary historical and military heritage awaiting your discovery in the heart of this unique destination!
Unmissables in Ardennes
Gift card “Animalier d’un jour au Parc Argonne Découverte
Day at Argonne Discovery Park
Fantasticable, fly over the Meuse – Terraltitude Park
Gift voucher for a duo cruise on the Meuse
Nature and relaxation getaway in the Ardennes: Parc Argonne Découverte – Gîte Ô Rethel Jacuzzi *****
Canoe and kayak rental at the Lac des Vieilles Forges
Cruise on the Meuse River aboard the boat Charlemagne
Canoeing or kayaking on the Voie Bleue
Travelling caravan in the Ardennes – Au Rythme d’Arduinna
Accrobranche in family at Terraltitude Park
Nature in Ardennes
Prolific, wild and spectacular, nature in Ardennes is a treasure beyond price, starting with the Ardennes Regional Nature Park, which covers over 100,000 hectares of protected nature with an extraordinary variety of landscapes. The abundance of its cherished biodiversity inspires sustainable tourism, for total disconnection from the everyday round and a return to the essential things in life.
There’s a whole range of activities for you to enjoy in the heart of nature, along hundreds of kilometres of marked trails. On the programme: hiking, cycling, horse-riding and unforgettable excursions to wherever the water takes you.
Cycle your way along the Meuse
Take full advantage of this idyllic setting at your own pace: get on your bike and pedal your way along the “Meuse à Vélo”, a 150-km European Cycle Route alongside the Meuse, from its source in Langres to its mouth in Rotterdam in the Netherlands!
Spectacular landscapes, narrow valleys and picturesque villages – an outstanding itinerary and total immersion in Ardennes’ inner nature await you on the Meuse à Vélo route.
Bearing witness to history
Ardennes has been witness to a rich, sometimes even legendary history, and today enjoys an outstanding heritage that has resulted from it, including the city of Charleville-Mézières.
World Capital of Puppetry, it’s also famous for its ramparts, for being the poet Arthur Rimbaud’s birthplace and for its Place Ducale, quite simply one of the most beautiful squares in Europe.
There’s also the town of Sedan to explore, with its historic centre, listed as a “Remarkable Heritage Site”, and the amazing castle that overlooks the town, the biggest fortress in Europe.
Cultural discoveries in Ardennes
Live the Escape Game adventure as a team!
Obstacle course in Charlemont
Travelling caravan in the Ardennes – Au Rythme d’Arduinna
Sedan Castle
Free visit of the fortress of Charlemont
Guided tour of the fortress of Charlemont
Memory in Ardennes
Due to its strategic geographical location, the département of Ardennes has been the theatre of numerous conflicts and wars that have bequeathed it a spectacular legacy for history buffs. Sites include the magnificent little fortified town of Rocroi and its star-shaped ramparts, highly strategic defences during the Thirty Years’ War.
Don’t miss out on the citadel of Givet either, perched atop its towering rock, or the fortified churches tour in Thiérache, to see how churches were once forced to turn themselves into mini-fortresses.
Recommended addresses for your stay in Ardennes
Accommodation, restaurants, outings – view our recommended address for your stay in Ardennes!
Apartment Charleville-Mézières – Sublime view on the Place Ducale
Gite Les Sens de Nelumbo
Ô Rethel Jacuzzi
Presqu’île de Chooz
3 nights at Château de Charbogne in the Corps de Logis gîte
Tarpaulin cart – Au Rythme d’Arduinna
Château de Charbogne – The watchtower lodge
B&B Charlestown in Charleville-Mézières
Package Silentio – Wellness and gastronomy getaway at Château Wallerand
Christmas menu at Château de Wallerand
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