Discover Parfondeval, a Gem in Aisne, Picardie

This intrepid but short excursion surprises by the diversity of its landscapes. Beginning at the Saint-Agapit chapel in Séchelles, the route, winding and grassy in its first part, offers beautiful panoramas over the countryside of Marles. After leaving the road to Agnicourt, it becomes straight, following the route of an old railway line, majestically lined with a curtain of poplars.

Open on the Thiérache river, this circuit offers beautiful forest, hedged farmland and cereal-growing landscapes. The isolated farm of Bélimont marks the end of a gradual ascent, before the tree cover of the Val Saint-Pierre forest. Driving south, the route offers views of the forest, the Laonnois plateaux and the villages nestled in the hollow of the Serre valley.

This mountain bike trail takes you through marshland and farmland to discover Château de Barive (18 th century) and Château Duperdussin (20 th century).

From Chivres to Mâchecourt, then bypassing the farm-castle of the Marais, the path progressively sinks into the peaty bottom of the Saint-Boétien marsh. Between hedges of poplars, then in the middle of the hedgerow and the reeds, we return by the marshes of the Souche, partly classified natural reserve.

Take a forested trail from Place de Courquain – the setting of Dany Boon’s film “Nothing to Declare” – towards the Great Crossing of the Forêt du Pays de Chimay. The picturesque atmosphere of this vast forest is peppered with rural valleys, which have been shaped by the Helpe, and a series of ponds, the largest of which is the Fourchinée. The source of the Eau Blanche is found nearby. This river guides you between woods and meadows to the stately city of Chimay, via a short urban route towards the Grand Place. Three camp sites are located in this section: the Nouveau Monde, the Sentier des Pins and the Crayats camp site.

You start this stretch in the border village of Macquenoise, the most southern and westerly point of the Chevauchée trail in the Pays des Lacs region. This former Franco-Belgian Hirson-Macquenoise customs house was made famous by the popular comedy ‘Nothing to Declare’. It was renamed the Courquain Customs House for the film. This region has been a crossroad for centuries, as evidenced by the scattered Roman ruins. You leave the village through the Chimay Forest and reach Seloignes from the north. You then pass near the charming Fourchinée pond. This reservoir supplied a furnace until the 18th century. Today, it is a nature reserve home to incredible flora and fauna. Finally, you reach Forges near the Rue des Sarts.

In the municipality of Macquenoise, and specifically near to this hike, many prehistoric remains have been discovered, including a glassworks in the place named ‘Fourmatot’. Along the stream of the same name that you cross several times, glass debris from the 2nd century has been uncovered. The glass furnace was in operation from the start of the 12th century, and was closed since 1780. The hike starts and finishes a stone’s throw from the Courquains customs post, that was made famous by the film ‘Rien à déclarer’ (Nothing to declare). 

In the heart of the marshy region of La Souche, Pierrepont remembers the exploitation of peat bogs which made its wealth. This excursion, ideal for all the family, penetrates in the ignored environment of the marshes, ornithological and floristic paradise. Patience, silence and observation will be your best assets to discover the treasures of the Saint-Boétien marsh.

"The marsh is a whole world on earth, a different world with its own life, its sedentary inhabitants and passing travelers, its voices, its sounds and its mystery above all. Nothing is more disturbing, more disturbing, more frightening at times than a swamp." (Le Horla, Guy de Maupassant). Lift the mysterious veil of this swamp, witness to the past exploitation of peat in the north of France.

In the past, peat was extracted for heating and to turn the machines. Today, the Liesse marshes are a protected natural area with an exceptional fauna and flora in the north of France.

We welcome you year-round to Rubigny, a charming, quiet, and rural village located in the Ardennes. La Charmille is a traditional holiday home featuring a heated pool, fitness room, garden, children's play area, and a fireplace. It comfortably accommodates up to 6 people and offers high-quality amenities. Just a few hours from Paris, Reims, or Chalon, the cottage is perfect for family holidays or festive getaways with friends. If you need a break and want to escape from your daily routine, we invite you to book a massage session and come relax during a wellness stay in the Ardennes. Set off with peace of mind, as the beds will be made for your arrival, and we provide a Welcome Kit with everything you need to start your vacation right. Rent Cottage Abel, the neighboring cottage to La Charmille, to accommodate groups of up to 12 people!

We welcome you year-round to Rubigny, a charming, quiet, and rural village located in the Ardennes. La Charmille is a traditional holiday home featuring a heated pool, fitness room, garden, children's play area, and a fireplace. It comfortably accommodates up to 6 people and offers high-quality amenities. Just a few hours from Paris, Reims, or Chalon, the cottage is perfect for family holidays or festive getaways with friends. If you need a break and want to escape from your daily routine, we invite you to book a massage session and come relax during a wellness stay in the Ardennes. Set off with peace of mind, as the beds will be made for your arrival, and we provide a Welcome Kit with everything you need to start your vacation right. Rent Cottage Abel, the neighboring cottage to La Charmille, to accommodate groups of up to 12 people!

In Champagne Ardennes, in a renovated old forge, beautiful luxury apartment with terrace and garden, LDS and BB. Kitchen (MO muli-function, LV, 2 burner hob) open living room (double bed + 1 pull-out 90, TV). SE with walk-in shower, WC. 1 bedroom with 140 x 200. In the property, indoor heated swimming pool all year long and jacuzzi in common with another rental, children's games. Bicycles on site. Private parking. Wifi.

The gateway to the region's remembrance sites, the War and Peace Museum in the Ardennes isdevoted to the three great conflicts that have left their mark in area. The Museum provides a story-line of the historical events that occurred in the Ardennes, whose natural extension is the discoveryof the legacy left in the region by so much warfare. History is presented as a continuum running from 1852 to 1945 that integrates the sequence ofevents, continuities and temporal breaks.With over 16,000 artefacts, including 150 uniforms and 50 pieces of heavy equipment, its displaysare enlivened by spectacular video projections, animated maps and set pieces. A huge chronologicalgallery and sequences covering the daily life of soldiers and civilians provide a pluralistic view ofHistory: A resolutely original and pedagogical approach for both adults and young people.

The owners of the Le Petit Bistrot holiday rental, which is nestled among lush greenery, offer a warm welcome to their charming, rustic home. Once a company operating at the border and, since 1964, a family home, the owners wanted to preserve its history by keeping the bar, which people can gather around. This rural rental boasts everything you need, with beautiful wooden furnishings and a contemporary, harmonious décor. There is a lovely bar with draft beers, billiards and table football, bar stools, booths and dartboards. The riverside terrace is spacious and offers a view of the Cendron fishing ponds and the surrounding countryside. 

Located in the bucolic village of Rièzes near Chimay, the owner of the Domaine Marie-Astrid guesthouse welcomes you to his charming residence, which is full of character. The rooms are spacious and boast refined décor that mixes wood and contemporary furnishings. The highlight of this building is the vineyard, with more than 5,000 vines of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Not to mention the other delicious products that the owner makes, such as beer, bread, cheese, chocolate and ice cream, to name just a few. There is a beautiful swimming pool with a stunning view of the surrounding nature. Generous breakfasts made from local produce are available and a table d’hôtes menu is possible with a reservation. 

Located in the peaceful little village of Rièzes, near Chimay, the Bengali gypsy caravan offers comfortable, unusual accommodation for a successful romantic getaway. Set in lush green surroundings, this gypsy caravan has a warm atmosphere thanks to its wooden materials and sleek décor. It’s spacious and fully equipped, with the exception of a TV, which is deliberately left out for a totally disconnected experience. Private garden with furniture, barbecue, fire pit and large communal garden featuring a Zen area with sauna, hot tub and Nordic bath. Breakfasts, snacks and set menu/à la carte evening meals can be booked in advance. There are signposted walking and/or cycling routes nearby. Not to mention Chimay and its castle, Scourmont Abbey, the Eau d’Heure lakes and the Aquascope at Virelles.  

The Old Post and Courier Post to Royal Horses Launoy is an architectural ensemble of the 17th century, quadrilateral, with the remains of postmaster flanked by two driveway gates and lodge watcher, a courtyard lined a large hall for coaches, teams overcome a series of grain reserves, hayloft and a typical barn. It is a place of cultural and tourist events: markets, fairs, exhibitions, festivals, flower ...). Program on request. Open Houses throughout the year or commented upon request or by appointment

Ideally located near Chimay and the French border, the La Dame au Lit farmhouse promises a relaxing stay in a verdant, rustic setting. In this house, which is made from local stone and found a stone’s throw from a dairy and cattle farm, the owners offer guests a real back-to-basics experience, with the option of discovering their world via a tour. Relaxation is guaranteed, thanks to the incredible garden and its private pond! Nearby, there are very beautiful signposted routes for walkers, cyclists, mountain bikers and/or horse riders. That’s not to mention the prestigious setting of the Principality of Chimay, which boasts charming heritage and local products.  

The gateway to the region's remembrance sites, the War and Peace Museum in the Ardennes isdevoted to the three great conflicts that have left their mark in area. The Museum provides a story-line of the historical events that occurred in the Ardennes, whose natural extension is the discoveryof the legacy left in the region by so much warfare. History is presented as a continuum running from 1852 to 1945 that integrates the sequence ofevents, continuities and temporal breaks.With over 16,000 artefacts, including 150 uniforms and 50 pieces of heavy equipment, its displaysare enlivened by spectacular video projections, animated maps and set pieces. A huge chronologicalgallery and sequences covering the daily life of soldiers and civilians provide a pluralistic view ofHistory: A resolutely original and pedagogical approach for both adults and young people.

The monument was inaugurated on 5th July 1925. It pays tribute to the children of Herpy-L'Arlésienne who died for their country, and also, which is more unusual, to the "French soldiers who fell in battle in the Municipality."

Commemorative monuments to the battle of Fosse à l'Eau on 28th and 29th August 1914 wereerected by the Germans (in 1915) and by the French (in 1924) in honour of the Moroccan Division.

Do you want to get in touch with your inner child? Dive into an imaginary world where old toys, sometimes older than two hundred years, tell you their story. Museum of old and collectable toys with repair workshop. The museum has a fabulous collection of more than 250 old dolls (porcelain, combined materials and celluloid) that have been carefully restored. There are also accessories (prams, shops, etc.), old teddies, etc.

The Old Post and Courier Post to Royal Horses Launoy is an architectural ensemble of the 17th century, quadrilateral, with the remains of postmaster flanked by two driveway gates and lodge watcher, a courtyard lined a large hall for coaches, teams overcome a series of grain reserves, hayloft and a typical barn. It is a place of cultural and tourist events: markets, fairs, exhibitions, festivals, flower ...). Program on request. Open Houses throughout the year or commented upon request or by appointment

This plot of land of 4 hectares, where more than 500 trees have been planted, is called the Promenade des Isles. It has been the site for different public events for several years. The most well-known is the Sainte Anne Fête, which has been held since 1805 at the end of July. For ten days the animation (the cavalcade, the fireworks display, the balls, the fairground attractions) attracts huge crowds, who come from all over the region. We must not forget to mention other public events, which have become traditional too like the horse show, the Foulées Rethéloises (cross-country running race), etc.. The first trees were planted on the meadow here in 1623 on a former cemetery. The town bought the neighbouring meadow (called the Cannevière) to extend the park in 1646. In 1775 the line of trees, which was in the middle, was cut down to create a central walkway. An entrance to the park from the town was made for pedestrians. Since this time the Promenade des Isles has always been used as a meeting place for local festivities.

Built on the site of a Priory church, this new church is of Gothic style with a high nave and two aisles. After two centuries of conflicts, the inhabitants of Rethel obtained the demolition of their uncomfortable aisle to replace it by a nave of the same dimensions as the monks’ one: the church has therefore two large naves placed side by side. In 1531, a portal opened out onto the town was built. In 1614, the building of the enormous three–tiered tower started to replace the former steeple. Three levels were superimposed in the classical order (Doric, Ionic and Corinthian).  The Revolution and the two World Wars caused great damage to Saint Nicholas church. The restoration works undertaken by the Historical Monuments started in 1941 to finally end in 1994. Guided visits: Wednesdays from June to Sept. at 4pm on the forecourt. Groups on reservation | Open from June to September, from 2.30pm to 5.30pm.

The former town hall of Rethel, built in 1750, was destroyed on 1st September 1914 in the fire started by the invader on the night of 31st August 1914, as well as three quarters of the town and the archives of the town. The Town Council did not establish an order for the reconstruction of municipal buildings until 13th October 1922, priority being given to schools. Among the 11 projects presented for the new Town Hall, Mr Boulenger’s one (an architect from Reims) was chosen. The building, in Louis XIIIth style, measures 40 meters by 14 and its height is 40 meters too. The materials used (white stone from Vierzy, red brick from Dizy and blue slate) bring out the colours of the national flag on its façade.  The building started in April 1925 and finished in November 1931. The official inauguration took place on 30th April 1933. The monumental staircase at the centre of the façade leads onto a wrought iron portal, the official entrance to the building. The main reception room is entirely covered by paintings of Eugène Thiéry from Rethel. 

The monument is an allegory of Victory, framed by panels bearing the list of Rethel’s civilian and military dead.

Votre hôtel**** -restaurant- spa- événementiel : venez y prendre le temps de vivre et goûter la poésie des lieux ! (130 couverts + terrasse / animaux acceptés)

Un véritable estaminet dans le Laonnois ! (50 couverts + terrasse / animaux acceptés)

This pretty road crosses the southern Ardennes countryside to Launois-sur-Vence, a rural village far from the hustle and bustle of towns and cities. The location of the Ardwen brewery is no trivial matter. The Champagne region is close by, its subsoil brimming with pure water, the basis of all high-quality beers. And the Woinic beer can claim its right to be described as such, since it has been nominated eight times at the Paris Agricultural Show. Recognition like this owes nothing to chance. The young but talented master brewer, Geoffrey Stevenin, loves his work and his range of beers, all made using natural ingredients. “The barley is from Champagne and the malt is from Belgium. But we will never add artificial flavouring to our beers”. The brewery produces a wide range of beers, all different, with very definite characters, just like the Ardennes! The Ardwen Blonde is refreshing and fresh; the Blanche is more lemony, with hints of coriander; the Ambrée is typical of caramelised malts. The Cerise or cherry beer is characterised by a lovely roundness, based on pure Morello cherry juice; the Hop’s Cure is strong in malts and hops. The Bleue has a pronounced bitterness, compared to the Rouge, which is beautifully round, with a fruity taste calling to mind kirsch, while the special Christmas beer, Ardwen de Noël, is more complex, with a subtle blend of spices. The Ardwen logo depicts the goddess Arduinna, protector of the forest, astride a wild boar: we’ll wager she protects this brewery like treasure, as the worthy heir of Ardennes brewing know-how.

Just a stone's throw from Notre-Dame de Scourmont Abbey, taste the local Trappist products. Want to know everything about how they are made? Don't miss a visit to the Espace Chimay on the same site. chimay.com/espace-chimay/

L'Espace Chimay, dedicated to Chimay cheese and beer, presents the Chimay Experience, an interactive visit of the brewery. To be consumed with no moderation! visitwallonia.com/en-gb/content/lespace-chimay-discover-how-trappist-beer-made

The Auberge de Poteaupré, a brewery/restaurant/hotel in Espace Chimay, is an ideal stop to savour the products of the Scourmont Abbey and those of the Chimay region. Just a short walk from Notre-Dame Abbey in Scourmont, Auberge de Poteaupré has been welcoming guests in a walk and rural atmosphere for over 100 years. Between tradition and gastronomy, the atmosphere is that of an English pub where Chimay beers and cheeses are the guests of honour.

Located just a short walk from Notre-Dame Abbey in Scourment, La Ferme des 4 Saisons is a family restaurant lovingly cooking wonderful dishes for almost 30 years. From fish to beef to lobster, discover the chef's creations inspired by Belgian-French classics. La Ferme des 4 Saisons changes its menu several times each season and uses raw market products carefully prepared by the team. All this in the comfort and warmth the restaurant is known for in a setting rich in colours and authentic and modern materials.

We welcome you year-round to Rubigny, a charming, quiet, and rural village located in the Ardennes. La Charmille is a traditional holiday home featuring a heated pool, fitness room, garden, children's play area, and a fireplace. It comfortably accommodates up to 6 people and offers high-quality amenities. Just a few hours from Paris, Reims, or Chalon, the cottage is perfect for family holidays or festive getaways with friends. If you need a break and want to escape from your daily routine, we invite you to book a massage session and come relax during a wellness stay in the Ardennes. Set off with peace of mind, as the beds will be made for your arrival, and we provide a Welcome Kit with everything you need to start your vacation right. Rent Cottage Abel, the neighboring cottage to La Charmille, to accommodate groups of up to 12 people!

We welcome you year-round to Rubigny, a charming, quiet, and rural village located in the Ardennes. La Charmille is a traditional holiday home featuring a heated pool, fitness room, garden, children's play area, and a fireplace. It comfortably accommodates up to 6 people and offers high-quality amenities. Just a few hours from Paris, Reims, or Chalon, the cottage is perfect for family holidays or festive getaways with friends. If you need a break and want to escape from your daily routine, we invite you to book a massage session and come relax during a wellness stay in the Ardennes. Set off with peace of mind, as the beds will be made for your arrival, and we provide a Welcome Kit with everything you need to start your vacation right. Rent Cottage Abel, the neighboring cottage to La Charmille, to accommodate groups of up to 12 people!

In a little village of Thiérache, a detached, entirely renovated house. On the ground floor, everything is adapted for disabled people : 1 bedroom with 2 single beds, a bathroom and separated WC. Equipped kitchen (washing machine, dishwasher, microwave). Dining-room/lounge with woodstove. On the first floor, 2 double bedrooms, 1 bedroom with 2 single beds and 1 bedroom with 3 single beds. Garage. Shops 7 km away. Along the tourist route of the fortified churches of Thiérache and next to the massif of the Ardennes. Bed-sheets renting possible. Taxes and heating included.

In Champagne Ardennes, in a renovated old forge, beautiful luxury apartment with terrace and garden, LDS and BB. Kitchen (MO muli-function, LV, 2 burner hob) open living room (double bed + 1 pull-out 90, TV). SE with walk-in shower, WC. 1 bedroom with 140 x 200. In the property, indoor heated swimming pool all year long and jacuzzi in common with another rental, children's games. Bicycles on site. Private parking. Wifi.

Located on the edge of the Saint-Michel national forest, this holiday rental is located among the residential buildings of its hospitable owners, surrounded by nature and fish-farming ponds. Indeed, the ponds in Cendron will delight avid fishermen, by offering the chance to fish for trout, white fish and even carnivorous specimen. This home formerly belonged to a blacksmith and showcases stone from the region. It also boasts the old hearth from that home. The walls, which are made from local rubble, add authentic charm and a pleasant coolness during the summer months. The Rêve d’Eau I holiday rental is located on the ground floor, at the foot of the fish-farming ponds and offers a fantastic view of them. 

Located on the edge of the Saint-Michel national forest, this holiday rental is located among the residential buildings of its hospitable owners, surrounded by nature and fish-farming ponds. Indeed, the ponds in Cendron will delight avid fishermen, by offering the chance to fish for trout, white fish and even carnivorous specimen. The walls, which are made from local rubble, add authentic charm and a pleasant coolness during the summer months. The Rêve d’Eau I holiday rental is located on the first floor and boasts a panoramic view of the ponds and breeding tanks from the Cendron fish farm. This is an ideal location for a pleasant and relaxing getaway with family or friends. 

Located on the edge of the Saint-Michel national forest, this holiday rental is located among the residential buildings of its hospitable owners, surrounded by nature and fish-farming ponds. Indeed, the ponds in Cendron will delight avid fishermen, by offering the chance to fish for trout, white fish and even carnivorous specimen. The walls, which are made from local rubble, add authentic charm and a pleasant coolness during the summer months. Located on the ground floor, opposite the owners’ house, the fully renovated Rêve d’Eau III holiday rental boasts large private spaces in a relaxing setting. It is an ideal location for a pleasant getaway with a small group.

The owners of the Le Petit Bistrot holiday rental, which is nestled among lush greenery, offer a warm welcome to their charming, rustic home. Once a company operating at the border and, since 1964, a family home, the owners wanted to preserve its history by keeping the bar, which people can gather around. This rural rental boasts everything you need, with beautiful wooden furnishings and a contemporary, harmonious décor. There is a lovely bar with draft beers, billiards and table football, bar stools, booths and dartboards. The riverside terrace is spacious and offers a view of the Cendron fishing ponds and the surrounding countryside. 

Located in the bucolic village of Rièzes near Chimay, the owner of the Domaine Marie-Astrid guesthouse welcomes you to his charming residence, which is full of character. The rooms are spacious and boast refined décor that mixes wood and contemporary furnishings. The highlight of this building is the vineyard, with more than 5,000 vines of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Not to mention the other delicious products that the owner makes, such as beer, bread, cheese, chocolate and ice cream, to name just a few. There is a beautiful swimming pool with a stunning view of the surrounding nature. Generous breakfasts made from local produce are available and a table d’hôtes menu is possible with a reservation.