Large format :  Autumn, Nature

Autumn escape: the Ardennes forests in Eastern France

In a veritable festival of colours, the Ardennes forest alone offers a spectacle you'll never tire of. Rejuvenating and enchanting, it holds many secrets that we're about to discover as we take part in a host of autumn activities!

Donkey rides: on or off the beaten track?

How about taking advantage of a pure, unspoilt environment to get closer to our animal friends? Why not take this big-eared animal for a ride? They may be stubborn, but that's just a cliché about this animal, which can be extremely gentle and devoted. So we embark on an unusual trek, following the steady stride of the little donkey: he leads the way while we enjoy the ride! It's the perfect time to contemplate the marks of autumn on the forest. The connection with the donkey is immediate, and with the environment too! Please note: for a successful experience, you'll need to be in good physical condition. Young children will have to wait a few years before climbing on the donkey's back.

Getting out of your comfort zone in a bivouac

We begin our hike through oak and broadleaf trees. The intoxicating scent is unmistakable: the humidity mixed with the resin creates the fragrance so characteristic of autumn. When we arrived at the specially prepared bivouac site, we were guaranteed a good night's sleep: we pitched our tents and set up camp, taking care not to disturb the ecosystem around us. After walking for several hours through the forest, we reward ourselves with a succulent basket filled with local produce! We'll be indulging in charcuterie with dry-cured ham (yet so soft) from the Ardennes, and white pudding from Rethel. To finish on a sweet note, let yourself be tempted by the famous galette à suc. Wrapped up and settled in, we drift off to sleep in our tent, lulled to sleep by the songs of the last people to go to bed. The first rays of sunshine gently wake us up, and we rub our eyes, stretch out and take in the panorama: when we open the tent, a whole show comes to life around us!

A cool escape on a hike

For a naturally refreshing outing, take advantage of the mild autumn weather to plan a hike. With shoes on and calves warmed up, we set off on our escapade: from sporty circuits to family outings and rejuvenating walks, there's always a hike to suit every taste! Right from the start of our adventure, the benefits were clear to see: improved breathing, optimal oxygenation of the brain and lungs, a clearer mind... it felt so good! The rocks emerging from the forest seem to touch the sky, while the oaks and broad-leaved trees are dressed in their autumn colours: ochre, fiery red and shimmering orange are naturally the predominant colours of autumn! Our walk takes us alongside a stream, ideal for cooling the back of your neck or relaxing to the sound of lapping water.

A few favourites: the Fondry des Chiens for a rejuvenating solo getaway. For the challengers, there's the Roc la Tour hike: a not-to-be-missed spot in the Ardennes renowned for its famous legend... The natural work of the sea or the raging wrath of the Devil? Finally, for a hike accessible to all the family, the Roche à Sept Heures is ideal for enjoying an incredible view of Monthermé.

Nature's playground: the theme parks

As well as being the green lung of the destination, the forest is also a real playground! There are a number of theme parks in the heart of the Ardennes Regional Nature Park, where you can get your thrills or meet some unusual people. Fancy jumping from tree to tree and being catapulted into the air? Then head to the Terraltitude park! Here, you're sure to be in the front row for a view of vegetation undergoing natural metamorphosis: from above, the spectacle is even more breathtaking. For animal lovers, the Parc Argonne Découverte is a must! Take a stroll around the ten hectares or so of parkland, where you'll come across packs of wolves, melt at the sight of raccoons and admire birds of prey spreading their wings in the air. Good to know: wolves give birth between May and June, so it's quite possible to spot cubs in autumn: they're so cute, it's hard to take your eyes off them!