Discover Givonne, Ardennes, Champagne-Ardenne

Allow two days for this route, used for centuries to travel between Sedan castle and Bouillon castle in Belgium. A walk where water, the forest and nature are omnipresent. Although neighbours, these two regions belong to very separate lands. One nestles in a fold of the Ardennes massif, while the other stretches along the banks of the Meuse river, near the first slope of the Parisian basin. The two towns have been sisters for a thousand years, linked by history since the signing of the Treaty of Verdun in 843 dividing up the Carolingian Empire. Along this circuit you can explore Europe’s largest feudal castle in Sedan, experience Godfrey’s first crusade at the castle and archeoscope in Bouillon and take part in medieval festivals… all in an outstanding forest setting. Breathe!

Given its position at the crossroads of the Germanic and Latin parts of Europe, the Ardennes region is strewn with evidence of its tumultuous and violent past. The powerful fortresses which tower over the landscape from high rocky outcrops have given rise to myths and legends. Their thick walls bear witness to a thousand years of sieges, wars and pillage. Bouillon, Herbeumont, Sedan and Montcornet still echo to the clash of swords and the songs of minstrels. In the light-filled valley of the Meuse, wealthy cities developed, but their riches had to be defended. The Fortifications Trail takes you along these mediaeval commercial roads, where the fate of Europe was decided on countless occasions.

From the valley of the Meuse to Préardennaises peaks, this route is a concentrate of the Ardennes. Starting from Sedan, you will pass by and enjoy Charleville-Mezieres and its surroundings, then down to the Crets sPréardennaises (vast territory with more than 90 municipalities ...) and go up to Sedan. You can follow pretty country lanes and some secondary roads which will allow you to make stops to enjoy the architectural heritage of towns and villages or simply the natural surroundings: castle, old coaching inn of the 17th century, former blast furnace or charming flowered village, point of view ...

Nice walk in the village of Corbion on the heights, some beautiful landscapes and quiet places. The barbecue area of L'Ecaillère will also allow you to have a barbecue if you wish with its fully equipped area.

Venture along the ridge path to discover the magnificent view from the Chaire à Prêche. Discover its legend from the Middle Ages, thanks to the sign posted by the Corbion tourist office. There's also 2 lesser-known legend created by pupils at Corbion nursery school. Enjoy the refreshing woodland along the Moulin stream.

A historical walk, where the memory of the poet Paul Verlaine, who lived in the Maison des Couleuvres (or Maison Verlaine) in 1885, hangs in the air. Fancy a trip to France? Just cross the ruisseau de la Goffe. You can listen to it all the way to the legendary Roche Aux Fées. There is a magnificent picnic area with a barbecue for a short break along the stream. Then head back up to the village of Corbion.

A magnificent walk that will allow you to discover the pretty, typical village of Corbion, breathtaking views and the tranquillity of the banks of the Semois. The past will be omnipresent during this walk. The opportunity to discover the Giant's Tomb from another angle.

A downhill mountain bike trail accessible to a more experienced public; requiring technique and specific riding equipment.Difficulty: blue: easy, intermediate. The "Nonnette" trail runs 700 m downhill through the forest of the Côte à l'Aise, in Bouillon. This forest is located behind the abbey and the Cordemois bridge, a stone's throw from the centre of Bouillon. It is made up of deciduous and coniferous stands.The average gradient of this enduro mountain bike trail is -9.1% with a difference in altitude of 70 m.

ATTENTION WALK CLOSED FOR THE MOMENT. Nice and easy walk to the Charlier viewpoint and among other things to the most famous oak tree in the region, which may date from the 17th century. Nice view around the Ferme des Mouches with the possibility to admire the remarkable oak tree of Les Mouches. The descent from Dos de Loup offers a view to the east of Bouillon.The most famous oak tree in the Bouillon area is French! It owes its preservation to Belgians who protected it, notably in 1870, when the Prussians, at war with the French, began to cut it down. Then, in 1970, when the effects of the drought almost killed it, a rejuvenation pruning of the dead branches and a pruning gave it a new youth. At the end of the last century, hit by a lightning strike that stripped the bark from the entire length of the trunk and a width of one to two metres, the French put a plant tar on the bast and the oak survived.

Discover horse riding with qualified instructors in a family farm deep in the countryside. An equestrian farm specialising in horse rearing, offering a variety of activities: lessons for adults and children, initiation, baby pony, treks with guides and rambles in the forest for young and old, at all levels of experience. For groups: two theme tours: The farm in the middle ages, or farm animals. Information available from the Sedan Region Tourist Office: (+33) (0)3 24 55 69 87

The "Etrier Ardennais" association, accredited by the French Riding School, welcomes you on the edge of the Bannet State Forest. It provides sporting or leisure riding in a quality framework. Whether beginner or an experienced rider, on horse or pony, you will benefit from the facilities of the leisure centre.

Producers of dried flowers for 33 years, we cultivate, dry and transform about thirty varieties of flowers. We also take care of sales! These activities keep my husband and I busy full time! We welcome you in our workshop because we are passionate about this project and we are already in a process of welcoming you. We want to make agriculture known! Come and see in our countryside, it is possible to live differently and to live happily! There is room, dare!

A pleasant setting, quality catering, designed with conviction to reduce costs. You won't regret paying us a visit ...!

"To you the castle life, in the heart of a historic site" At the heart of history, and in the largest castle of Europe, come live an atypical escape in the Residence of the Princes of Sedan.Hôtel and restaurants Château Fort Sedan, welcomes you in a remarkable heritage, established since 6 centuries, which expresses the power of medieval architecture.Our rooms have a view on the imposing courtyard of the Castle and our suites have a dominant position on the city. Our team accompanies you, with conviviality, for a serene and peaceful stay Chef OLIVOT sign, for our two restaurants, seasonal cuisine and fresh products. Stay at the castle will become your story in history and for an unforgettable memory. Open all year. Instagram : hotelchateaufort

In the very heart of the city, come and discover the Giant of Sedan, a 35,000 m2 fortress built almost 6 centuries ago. In a group or as a family, walk along the ramparts in the footsteps of the Princes de la Marck and the Tour d'Auvergne. Relive the times of the Middle Ages through our new tour 1000 years of history!  

Installed just in front of the largest European Castle of Sedan. Traditional cuisine based on fresh products, focused on tastes and flavors from around the world. All products are homemade (foie gras, smoked salmon, etc.). Fresh bread produced every day entirely on site. Member of the Cercle des restaurateurs d'Ardenne.

Hotel-restaurant at the foot of the largest castle in Europe. The pleasure of a meal by the fire with family or friends. You will enjoy both regional products and dishes and seafood specialties.

The Saint Michel, facing the Princes' Palace and close to the Castle, has 43 spacious, comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms. The hotel is in a fine old residence built of local stone in the 17th century, at the same time as the Princes' Palace. Its central location is ideal for visiting the old city. It can also be a convenient starting point for tours of the secret, mysterious features of the Ardennes.

Pizzeria in the heart of the town, near the castle.

It's time to go on an adventure and discover the legendary trails linking the Ardenne to Belgium. Take the footsteps of the knights through an exceptional forest and landscapes in the rough. Park at the Bannet Recreation Center. Take the direction of the Hatrelle. Take the path of the Verrerie to the Bois de Robessart. From there, go to Belgium (Maison Verlaine, Roche aux fées) then take the Bouillonnais way, the Belle Taille valley and Olly.

he forges and furnaces of Givonne, dating from the 16ᵉ century, were the main facilities of the Principality of Sedan, operated by the Goffin d'Haraucourt and then Lembermont families. At the time of the Revolution, they included two refinery fires, two hammers and a swift. In the 19ᵉ century, they passed into the hands of Thomas, Lamotte-Pirotte, then Desrousseaux-Noizet. Today, only the shop, the dwelling and an early 19ᵉ century coal shed remain. The buildings that have disappeared include the forge, the blast furnace hall (1837), and the workshops, with the exception of the dam. The building is of limestone rubble with ashlar surrounds, while exposed timber framing characterises the coal hall.

The spinning mill has been mentioned since at least 1846, when it belonged to Letang-Vannaise. Until the end of the XIXᵉ century, the buildings were built high up, typical of the early days of mechanised spinning. Later, these structures were replaced by ground-floor workshops. Two dates inscribed on the buildings bear witness to the rebuilds: 1906 and 1908. In 1943, the factory still employed around a hundred people. Today, the remaining buildings house a transport company, an agricultural shed and municipal warehouses. The main structures are built of limestone, with rubble and ashlar for the quoins and frames. Early 20th-century buildings incorporate brickwork for the surrounds, dividing walls and a panelled gable wall. The square-plan chimney is also made of brick. The roofs are gable or sheds, covered with mechanical tiles. The dwelling has a broken pavilion roof covered in slate, while the conciergerie has a pavilion roof.

On 6 October 1830, plans were drawn up by the departmental architect Delerue for the total reconstruction of the church. Although the choir appears to have been built at the time, the rest of the building projected on paper was not carried out in this form, as it seems that it was the Sedan architect Juste Henriot who carried out the rest of the building, as it appears when the work was handed over in 1844. Although the date on which work began is not known, the arch of the organ loft bears the date 1836. The church of Saint-Remi, located to the north-east of the village, has an elongated floor plan. Its three-vessel nave is preceded by a west aisle with a central bell tower, a stairwell to the south and a chapel to the north. The square choir has a straight bay and a semicircular apse. The building is constructed from Bulson limestone rubble, with some ashlar. The nave, covered by a false vault, is separated by Tuscan columns, while the choir is topped by a false cul-de-four. The interior walls are of exposed stone, and the floor is of limestone slabs and brick. The bell tower, with vestibule and organ loft, is crowned by a balustrade. The entire building is covered in slate, with long-sloped roofs for the nave and choir.

The Givonne rises north of Sedan, in the commune of La Chapelle, at an altitude of 402 m4, in the middle of the Sedan forest in the Ardennes massif. In the Ardennes department alone, the Givonne stream flows through the following six communes, from upstream to downstream: La Chapelle (source), Givonne, Illy, Daigny, La Moncelle and Bazeilles.

In 1835, Camion-Richard built a factory in Vrigne-aux-Bois, comprising a refinery, forge and rolling mill, powered by three waterwheels on the Jacquemotte pond. The reservoir and winnowing system still remain. Today, the premises are shared between the Aplitec factory, which specialises in metal processing, and a small-scale roofer. The complex comprises buildings dating from the early 20th century, with a seven-bay production workshop with tiled and glass sheds, and a dwelling house with a slate roof. The supporting structures are metal with cast-iron posts. Later extensions were added, notably between the wars and in the 1950s, with a turbine building and an extension to the south. The old buildings are of limestone rubble, while the extensions are of iron pan and concrete. A hydraulic turbine is still present on the site to the east.

On 23 September 1871, a request was made to build a standard gauge railway from Sedan to Bouillon in Belgium. On 2 November 1871, the General Council gave its approval. You can see the old station where passengers could take the train to Bouillon.

This light armoured reconnaissance vehicle is on pneumatic tyres rather than caterpillar tracks. It displays the insignia of the 12th Regiment de Chasseurs (Cavalry Regiment), emblematic of Sedan. This unit was disbanded in 1984 and its training ground was near Daigny. The cavalry was replaced by this armoured car before the second World War. Sedan was a garrison town for nearly six centuries, mainly for cavalry units, from the start of the 15th century to the end of the 20th century. Both the town and the surrounding countryside retain traces of this that contribute to the historic value of the region. The Givonne valley, which has always been a frontier region, often had to defend itself against armed invaders. Four ‘maison fortes’ (literally strong houses) were constructed, namely at Givonne, Daigny, La Moncelle and Bazeilles, of which only the last two still remain. It has also suffered Franco-German wars three times in 75 years, in which have ravished the Sedan region, but it was the drama of the 1 September 1870 that left the worst memories: hundreds of corpses scattered around Daigny after the battle, as in neighbouring villages. Only a proportion of those fallen were buried again in cemeteries, while others disappeared in scattered graves.

Der Wiederaufbau der Kirche Saint-Lambert wurde von der Société Coopérative de Reconstruction immobilière und ab 1950 von der Société Coopérative de Reconstitution mobilière des églises sinistrées des Ardennes betreut. Die Ausschreibungen wurden am 29. Oktober 1959 veröffentlicht und die Verträge im September 1960 unterzeichnet. Die Baugenehmigung wurde am 23. April 1960 nach den Plänen vom 20. August 1959 erteilt. Die Stahlkonstruktion wurde am 19. September 1962 montiert und mit dem Glockenturm am 11. Februar 1963 fertiggestellt. Die offizielle Einweihung fand am 5. Juni 1966 statt. Die Kirche Saint-Lambert befindet sich im Zentrum des Dorfes und ihr Chor ist nach Süden ausgerichtet. Sie hat einen länglichen Grundriss, bei dem es außer einigen Stufen keine Trennung zwischen Chor und Kirchenschiff gibt. In einem Untergeschoss, das über eine Metalltreppe zugänglich ist, befinden sich eine Sakristei und ein Gemeindesaal. Die Wände sind aus Metall und Ziegelstein, mit einem Vorbau, der den Glockenturm stützt. Das Schieferdach wird von Balken getragen und der Glockenturm ist eine offene, quadratische Turmspitze.

This hamlet whose splendid panorama overlooking the village of Illy has certainly been popular as a mecca wherein the spirit has been flowing for centuries for surrounding villagers. This example at Illy could not have escaped the attention of General Margueritte at the beginning of the afternoon of the 1 of September 1870. It was here that he assembled his Cavalry Division prior to its fateful charges against the German infantry lines on the slopes below, on the plateau of Terme. Towards 2.30 pm, he advanced in front of his troops to within 400 meters of the enemy to reconnoitre their positions. It was at the moment that the cavalry charge began that he was mortally wounded close to the Terme Inn. He was immediately succeeded by General Gallifet, who led the first heroic charge. All the cavalry units wanted to avenge the loss of their commander, particularly the 1st Regiment of the Chasseurs d’Afrique which he had previously commanded. This series of charges marks the last ever French cavalry charge. The memorial ‘des Braves Gens’ (the Brave People) commemorates these events.

A pleasant setting, quality catering, designed with conviction to reduce costs. You won't regret paying us a visit ...!

Installed just in front of the largest European Castle of Sedan. Traditional cuisine based on fresh products, focused on tastes and flavors from around the world. All products are homemade (foie gras, smoked salmon, etc.). Fresh bread produced every day entirely on site. Member of the Cercle des restaurateurs d'Ardenne.

Hotel-restaurant at the foot of the largest castle in Europe. The pleasure of a meal by the fire with family or friends. You will enjoy both regional products and dishes and seafood specialties.

The idea behind this restaurant is original. Customers can watch beers being made using traditional methods, including the famous ‘Sedane’. This warm, friendly brasserie lies at the foot of the castle, near the old district of the city.

Traditional restaurant with homemade cooking using fresh seasonal produce. Slate menus.

Pizzeria in the heart of the town, near the castle.

Sophie welcomes you to her restaurant in Rue du Ménil. Come in and enjoy one of our home-made burgers, prepared with passion, or try our more traditional cuisine, all based on fresh produce. A varied menu offering generous and excellent cuisine!

In the very centre of Sedan, the twinned restaurants "Au bon vieux temps" and "Le Marmiton" (brasserie) welcome you just a stone's throw from the biggest medieval castle in Europe. Founded in 1967.

Located in the town centre, in a building dating from the end of the 17th century, the restaurant has been managed by the Leterme family for over 45 years. It offers both gourmet and brasserie cooking which combines high quality and local products. Dishes follow the seasons, and are inspired by neoclassical cuisine.

Brewery only at midday. Snacks all day. For the evening, contact us. Restaurant closed on December 25 and January 1 all day.

Charming house located on the heights of Sedan. Family and friends can relax in this green setting. With a capacity of 10 -12 people 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms Minimum rental of 3 nights

This charming and bright 3 room apartment of 73 m², partially refurbished in August 2017 is located only 150 meters from the castle of SEDAN. Ideally located to visit the city, this independent flat offers an exceptional view of the largest castle in Europe. The old town centre, the tourist office, the castle, restaurants, bars, shops, media library, market, parks and cinema are all within walking distance. Ideally located for visiting the city, you will be able to spend a stay without a car. The castle, the old town centre, the tourist office, the botanical garden, shops, bars, restaurants, media library, market and cinema are all within walking distance. Nestled on the FIRST floor of a small building without a lift, the flat is equipped to make you feel at home. Very comfortable, it offers a large living and dining room, two beautiful bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, a shower room, a separate toilet and a balcony. Bedroom 1 has a double bed, a chest of drawers, a mirror, two tables and two bedside lamps. Bedroom 2 has a single bed with a wardrobe, a mirror, a table and a bedside lamp. The bedding will guarantee you a good night's rest. The living room includes a 3-seater sofa, a coffee table and a television. The dining room has a dining table and 4 chairs. The bathroom has a large shower with a powerful jet, a large mirror and a washbasin. The kitchen is equipped with a small fridge-freezer, gas hob, oven, microwave, extractor fan, electric kettle, crockery, cutlery and all the necessary cooking equipment. The accommodation is equipped with a hoover, hairdryer, iron and ironing board. Stay connected to share your stay on social networks or search on the internet... A free and unlimited WI-FI internet access is available in the flat. For your comfort, we provide you with basic products (coffee, tea, oil, salt, pepper, sugar, garbage bags and toilet paper) as well as bed linen and towels. Art books, novels, card and board games are available for your relaxation. The flat is non-smoking. For your arrival, we will be pleased to welcome you from 2 pm until 10 pm. Your departure will be before noon. For cars, there is free parking at the foot of the building and for motorbikes, there is a secure parking space in the courtyard.

Detached house for 6 people, exceptional view on the castle of Sedan, very close to the city centre. Independent kitchen, where you will find everything you need : coffee machine, microwave, fridge, freezer, combined freezer, private washing machine, private dryer, dishwasher. Very well equipped: kitchen utensils, crockery and cutlery... The living room and dining room are very bright with a view of the castle, LCD screen TV, DVD player, WIFI Independent room: 2 beds of 90cm, Chambre Indépendante : 1 bed of 160cm, On the first floor Independent room: 1 bed of 160cm. Terrace with flowers in summer, garden furniture, arbour, sunbeds, barbecue. Large garage ideal for bikers and cyclists.

Fully renovated house, accessible to people with reduced mobility. The house is equipped with 7 closed rooms and 2 mezzanines, for a total of 11 beds. 3 rooms are equipped with a private shower room. You will also find a kitchen, a dining room, 2 living rooms, a laundry room, 5 toilets, 3 independent bathrooms, a bar area, a table football room, an outdoor jacuzzi for 5 people, a terrace with garden furniture, a barbecue and a closed garden. The gîte is located in the commune of Bazeilles. You can find all types of shops. The gîte is 5 minutes from Sedan, 20 minutes from Charleville-Mézières, 15 minutes from Bouillon. Ideally located to discover the Ardennes. Nearby activities: Sedan Castle, visit Charleville-Mézières and discover the city of Arthur Rimbaud, greenway, mountain bike trails from Bannet to Givonne, ski slopes at La Chapelle, kanoe kayak on the Semoy in Belgium.

"To you the castle life, in the heart of a historic site" At the heart of history, and in the largest castle of Europe, come live an atypical escape in the Residence of the Princes of Sedan.Hôtel and restaurants Château Fort Sedan, welcomes you in a remarkable heritage, established since 6 centuries, which expresses the power of medieval architecture.Our rooms have a view on the imposing courtyard of the Castle and our suites have a dominant position on the city. Our team accompanies you, with conviviality, for a serene and peaceful stay Chef OLIVOT sign, for our two restaurants, seasonal cuisine and fresh products. Stay at the castle will become your story in history and for an unforgettable memory. Open all year. Instagram : hotelchateaufort

Come and discover this superb, cosy, fully renovated 33 m² studio, furnished with all mod cons, including: -1 fully equipped kitchen -1 small lounge -1 bed (140x190 cm, sheets provided) -1 bathroom (towels provided) - Hairdryer - Microwave - Oven - Electric hob - Coffee maker The studio is located in the heart of Sedan on a very quiet street. The castle is 500 metres away. SNCF train station 1 kilometre away. Free parking nearby. Bicycles can be parked in the secure entrance hall.

Hotel-restaurant at the foot of the largest castle in Europe. The pleasure of a meal by the fire with family or friends. You will enjoy both regional products and dishes and seafood specialties.

The Saint Michel, facing the Princes' Palace and close to the Castle, has 43 spacious, comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms. The hotel is in a fine old residence built of local stone in the 17th century, at the same time as the Princes' Palace. Its central location is ideal for visiting the old city. It can also be a convenient starting point for tours of the secret, mysterious features of the Ardennes.

The town's oldest bar, the Roy de la bière has been open since 1943. Popular for its wide choice of beers, it also owes its reputation to the 'Passe Stout', French beer competition champion. With its cosy, hushed atmosphere and the owner's secrets on how his beers are made, you're sure to have a great time.

Le Royal is a 3-star flat with a breathtaking view of the largest fortified castle in Europe. On the 2nd floor of a building without a lift, it offers a fully equipped open-plan kitchen, a dining area with an electric fireplace for 4 people. The living room has a TV with Netflix and Amazon prime, free wifi and a 140x190cm sofa bed. The flat has a bedroom with a 160 x200 bed and a shower room. Everything you need is included: bed linen, towels, soap, shampoo and kitchen utensils; tea, coffee and jam. Dogs and cats are welcome. Free on-street parking and other car parks less than 200m away. Baby equipment (cot, high chair, bath) available on request. Non-smoking accommodation.