Sedan

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 ...

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.

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 nice refreshing walk on very easy paths that will take you to discover the pretty deciduous forest. You will pass by the VITA track and the pleasant Chahaye pond. This pond is a great place to relax, picnics and barbecues are available. For PRM or pushchairs (in dry weather), start at the pond of La Chahaye for a 2 km walk.

20 pitches for motorhomes on the banks of the MeuseNatural setting near the center and shops1.5 km from Sedan CastleService Bollard and Drain ZoneFor the pleasure of boaters, CAMPING-CAR PARK is also in charge of the management of the Fluvial Stop adjacent to the motorhome area. The halt allows 10 boats to be able to benefit from services for every 24 hours. Sedan, in the Ardennes metropolis, is a former principality dominated by its immense castle, valiant witness of the history of France. From the area, you will be just a few steps from the castle and downtown Sedan. Stroll through the historic center called "remarkable heritage site" with its facades Louis XV and Louis XVI through the Botanical Garden for a green stop. For a more nature and sporting outing, cycle through the Meuse (France, Belgium, and the Netherlands) and especially the Trans-Ardennes greenway, between Charleville and Sedan. It is suitable for cyclists of all levels and is located on the old towpath. Take your time, admire the forest and breathe the fresh air! Let yourself be won by the soothing and rejuvenating effect of the river. Download the Trans-Ardennes Greenway Roadmap On foot, many hiking trails will make you discover Sedan and its surroundings. The Sedan market is held every Wednesday and Saturday morning (Place Crussy and Place Alsace-Lorraine)

Restaurant "The Principality" welcomes you in a unique setting, and offers original cuisine combining the flavor and quality of fresh produce. The dining room, located in the former home of the Lieutenant du Roy, invites you to discover the changing chef's card according to the seasons.

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.

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.

Elegant flat, located in the centre of Sedan, a few steps away from the largest castle in Europe. The flat is located on the 2nd floor of a beautiful building and consists of a living room with sofa bed, a fully equipped kitchen, a bathroom, a separate toilet and a bedroom with double bed. You have all the local shops within a few steps of the flat.

Beautiful furnished apartment of 73m² located in the old heart of the city of Sedan.Set in a 17th-century building, it is less than 100 meters from Europe's largest castle.

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.

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!  

"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

‘Tucker Tours’ are military history day tours around Sedan in the Ardennes. The main purpose is to see the Maginot Line around Sedan and understand the German assault across the river Meuse in May 1940. For this we see Maginot blockhouses, memorials, military cemeteries and most importantly, points of view to see how the battle progressed. Sedan and the area around it have seen battles in 1870, 1914, 1918 as well. These combats took place over the same terrain as in May 1940. Consequently we cover these combats in as much detail as is of interest to visitors. In the afternoon we follow the Maginot Line eastwards and do a private underground visit of the Maginot Line ouvrage ‘La Ferté’. There are a range of options of what to see and where to go. For example a visit to the village of Stonne, scene of probably the fiercest fighting in May/June 1940.

Begun in 1865 under the orders of architect Reimbeau, completed in 1868 by architect Jean Baptiste Couty and built in the middle of the Napoleon III epoch, this Ancient Prefecture was required in front of the Macdonald district and centred on avenue de La Marck. The building was inspired by Louis XIII and it combines: rusticated stone, the cartouche and oculus of Louis XIII, a sitting dog central to the Renaissance trend, a Louis XIV roof, broken at the JA Mansard and a Palladian central distribution staircase. It was successively headquarters of the General Staff, the residence of the Prince Imperial and the Emperor Napoleon III as well as Sub prefects. Napoleon III spent 3 nights and left at dawn on 2 September 1870 to sign the act of surrender of his army and himself at Bellevue Castle.

During the creation of the Royal Factory of Dijonval in 1646, Sedan, newly attached to France, became the first manufacturing centre of fine linen using "the Holland method". The Dijonval was an industrial work place for more than 300 years where the thousands of men and women involved created the grandeur and reputation of Sedan textiles. The buildings still exist today and are reminiscent more of a palace than a factory. They are, in fact, a superb example of the architecture of the eighteenth century. Only the facade and courtyard may be visible. More information in the brochure "Parcours Sedan" A guide to the Dijonval, Itinéraires du Patrimoine collection, is on sale at the Tourist Office. 

The Maison du Patrimoine is a Centre d'Interprétation de l'Architecture et du Patrimoine (CIAP) and is part of the Ville d'art et d'histoire (City of Art and History) label, which Sedan obtained in 1999. The Ministry of Culture awards the label "Ville ou Pays d'art et d'histoire" (City or Country of Art and History) to territories that undertake to protect and animate their heritage, and signs an agreement with them. Today, more than 195 Cities and Countries of Art and History highlight heritage in all its diversity throughout France. Actions to promote heritage are implemented, coordinated by the Architecture and Heritage Coordinator: - guided tours - visits and workshops with schoolchildren - events such as the European Heritage Days, the Rendez-vous aux jardins, the National Architecture Days, etc. - publication of discovery tours, brochures on the history of the city - exhibitions Within the framework of the conventions signed with the State, each City or Country of Art and History undertakes to create a CIAP. A Centre for the Interpretation of Architecture and Heritage is a place of presentation of the territory in its urban, historical and architectural dimension. It aims to give inhabitants and tourists, children and adults alike, the keys to understanding the city, as a prelude or complement to a visit. A CIAP is not a museum in the sense that it does not present collections, but plans, photos, models, materials, architectural projects... that make you want to see the city for real! Called "Maison du Patrimoine", the CIAP of Sedan includes : - a permanent exhibition allowing to approach the urban evolution through the centuries as well as the themes specific to the territory, - a temporary exhibition room, - a reception and documentation area - an activity room for schoolchildren - the offices of the Heritage Department.

Patrimoines d'Ardennes, follow the guides! Alone, in pairs, with family or friends, for a few hours or all day long... In spring, summer, autumn or winter. Ancient, modern or industrial history, fauna or flora... Quiet or sporty... There is an outing to suit you. Details of the activities, scheduled dates and rates are available on the website www.patrimoinesdardennes.fr And for groups of more than 15 people, estimate on request.

This stone tree should not be neglected or forgotten, not only because of its symbolic value but also because it has become one of the landmarks of the Sedan region. It represents an image of a woman opposing the war and that of a tree coming back to life. The oak is, with the wild boar, one of the symbols of the town of Sedan, whose motto ‘Undique Robur’ (‘Strength from everywhere’), inherited from the La Marcks, comprises the Latin word ‘robur’ which means both oak and strength. The inhabitants of Floing raised funds, which allowed a ‘broken oak’ to be ordered from the marble sculptor Constant Duc who belonged to a dynasty of stone cutters who came to Sedan from Savoy. Despite successive deteriorations, one can make out a feminine outline at the foot of the broken oak, who is trying to break a cannon with a sledge hammer while a new branch of that oak is growing above her. A significant number of combatants killed in the last hours of the battle are buried here.

Amongst all the horrors endured, that of the internment camp in the castle at Sedan retains the worst memories of this tragic history. It was used from January 1917 until November 1918. It was a veritable ‘death camp’, run by torturers, a forerunner of the Nazi concentration camps of World War II. This hellhole, ignored by the public in neighbouring regions, was called ‘the Penal Colony’ by the Sedan people, where both French and Belgians died as a result of such inhumane treatment. It was the desperate need for labour which drove the enemy into taking these criminal and inhumane actions. In the Belgian and French occupied zones, civilians from 14 to 60 years old were requisitioned into labour battalions (Zivil Arbeiter Bataillon). Those who put up any resistance were sent to the internment camp in the castle at Sedan or the discipline camps (Kommaandos) at Bazeilles or Mont Saint Martin. When they left to go to construction sites, the prisoners were recognised by their red armband worn on the left arm, their heavy wooden shoes or their bare feet, but particularly due to their thinness and their haggard eyes. Denzin, the camp commander, Michaelson, the doctor, and Holz, the head of the guards, feared by the prisoners, were mainly responsible for the appalling death rate that afflicted this camp. Deprivation, abuse, appalling malnutrition, frightful hygiene, general dysentery, slavery conditions at work, 5-600 prisoners squeezed into 400 possible places: everything worked towards speeding up the death march. The exact number of victims remains uncertain, but in less than 2 years it exceeded a thousand deaths and was probably significantly more. In 1919, the commander and the prison doctor were sought to be tried as war criminals, but in vain...! Today, after 75 years of suicidal wars, we take our own last words from the memorial plaque located in the Sedan castle: "Let us erase the hatred, but keep the memories."

Das Schloss von Sedan ist ein wahrhaftiges Register militärischer Architektur vom 15. bis zum 19. Jahrhundert. Der Panoramasaal präsentiert die Kollektionen des kommunalen Museums in Verbindung mit der Schlacht von 1870 : Fragmente des Panorama de la bataille de Champigny von Édouard Detaille und Alphonse de Neuville, die Skizzen des Panorama de la Bataille de Sedan von Ludwig Braun, Skulpturen von Rodin und von Croisy, eine Waffenkollektion und Teile der Uniformen der unterschiedlichen kriegführenden Länder...

The Palais des Princes, or Château bas, was built in 1614 by Jean Charbon, architect of Prince Henri de la Tour d'Auvergne, father of Marshal Turenne. This elegant building corresponds to the needs and tastes of a time when the ancient fortress was uncomfortable. It was the last residence of the Princes of Sedan. Visible from the outside only. More information in the brochure "Laissez vous conter Sedan"

Classified as a historic monument. Upon the Revocation of the Edict of Nantes in 1685, a decree of the State Council gave the Protestant church at the Place d'Armes to the Catholics. who transformed the church under the leadership of Robert de Cotte, the brother-in-law of Mansart. In honour of Charles Maurice Le Tellier, Archbishop of Reims, the church was given the name Charles Borromée, who participated in the drafting of the Council of Trent, a founding element of the Counter-Reformation. Its austere architecture is a mix of Protestant character and monumental expression of classic churches. Its furniture, altars in the chapels and woodwork of the choir is remarkable. Louis XIV financed the altarpiece with ionic columns. The great red marble framework once exhibited a canvas depicting Saint Charles Borromeo rescuing the plague victims of Milan, painted by a monk of the abbey of Orval.

Open every day except Sunday evening and Monday. Service from 12h to 14h30 and from 19h to 22h. For more information join us on Facebook

Discover gourmet Turkish cooking in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Restaurant "The Principality" welcomes you in a unique setting, and offers original cuisine combining the flavor and quality of fresh produce. The dining room, located in the former home of the Lieutenant du Roy, invites you to discover the changing chef's card according to the seasons.

Located at the Château Fort de Sedan in the Ardennes, the Midi au Château restaurant offers a complete menu (starter, main course, dessert) and a varied menu.

Charcuterie and Ardennes cheeses on boards. Vegetarian dishes Local dishes

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.

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

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.

20 pitches for motorhomes on the banks of the MeuseNatural setting near the center and shops1.5 km from Sedan CastleService Bollard and Drain ZoneFor the pleasure of boaters, CAMPING-CAR PARK is also in charge of the management of the Fluvial Stop adjacent to the motorhome area. The halt allows 10 boats to be able to benefit from services for every 24 hours. Sedan, in the Ardennes metropolis, is a former principality dominated by its immense castle, valiant witness of the history of France. From the area, you will be just a few steps from the castle and downtown Sedan. Stroll through the historic center called "remarkable heritage site" with its facades Louis XV and Louis XVI through the Botanical Garden for a green stop. For a more nature and sporting outing, cycle through the Meuse (France, Belgium, and the Netherlands) and especially the Trans-Ardennes greenway, between Charleville and Sedan. It is suitable for cyclists of all levels and is located on the old towpath. Take your time, admire the forest and breathe the fresh air! Let yourself be won by the soothing and rejuvenating effect of the river. Download the Trans-Ardennes Greenway Roadmap On foot, many hiking trails will make you discover Sedan and its surroundings. The Sedan market is held every Wednesday and Saturday morning (Place Crussy and Place Alsace-Lorraine)

Independent and cosy floor on the first floor of my flat. You will have at your disposal a kitchenette with a dining area opening onto a pretty terrace with trees, one or two (depending on the option) spacious bedrooms, a bathroom with toilet. If you like peace and quiet and the impression of being in the countryside, even though you are in the middle of the city in a shopping district, this accommodation will delight you.

In the hills above Sedan, this loft boasts breathtaking views! This property comprises a superb, light-filled living room where the charm of the stone combines with modern materials. The fully-equipped kitchen has a central island and a range of appliances. Large cupboards, dressing room and shelving lead to the sleeping area, comprising 2 connecting bedrooms with no doors and a shower room. Outside, you'll find a terrace, south-facing garden and parking.

Restaurant "The Principality" welcomes you in a unique setting, and offers original cuisine combining the flavor and quality of fresh produce. The dining room, located in the former home of the Lieutenant du Roy, invites you to discover the changing chef's card according to the seasons.

Le gite des vignes sleeps 2 but can also accommodate 3 people. You'll be staying between town and country in a fully renovated former dovecote. This self-contained cottage is located on a secure property, with free parking in the immediate vicinity. You will have access to an outdoor area equipped with an electric barbecue and sun loungers. Ideally located 10 minutes from the château fort, the town centre and all amenities. Motorcyclists and cyclists can park their vehicles safely inside the property. 2 mountain bikes are available free of charge. Free use of the heated swimming pool from May to September. Pets are not allowed. Smokers are not permitted inside the gîte, but may smoke outside. The gîte is not suitable for people with reduced mobility or young children.

Complete flat at the foot of the Château Fort with private parking in the building with remote control. Access to the flat by lift or stairs. The flat has a double bed (160x200) and a sofa bed (140x160), towels provided, pillows, duvets, TV + Orange TV + Wifi available, dressing room, desk. Kitchen utensils provided. Separate toilet. Bathroom (bath)

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.

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.

On the first floor of a secure building, come and discover this lovely, cosy, fully renovated 65 m² flat, comfortably furnished with: -1 fitted kitchen -1 living room -1 dining room -2 bedrooms with 1 180x200 bed and 1 160x200 bed - 1 bathroom - 1 private box for bicycles or motorbikes - Sedan town centre, 900 m from the train station, free 100-space car park 20 m away, close to Sedan Castle. This apartment is very well laid out and can accommodate up to 4 people.

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.