Experience the allure of Marre, Meuse, Lorraine

“Forêt d’Exception®” walking trail from Verdun to Froideterre In the heart of the Verdun national forest, certified Forêt d’Exception®, Meuse Attractivité and the ONF have created hiking trails that offer a different way to discover the traces of the Great War. The Froideterre trail, which is 3 km long (about a 1.5-hour walk), starts at the Thiaumont fortification. It crosses a landscape marked by history, where impressive remains can still be seen: concrete entrenchments, an FT2 combat shelter, two casemates, an artillery bench, and the famous "four chimneys ." This trail invites visitors to immerse themselves in the moving sites of the 1916 battles, which transformed the area into an apocalyptic battlefield. Classified as a Red Zone in 1919, this devastated territory was reforested by the state in 1923 with 36 million trees. Today, the forest is reborn, and this unique natural and memorial heritage can be discovered as an open-air museum, combining memory, nature, and resilience.

Famous for the Battle which took place in 1916, the history of the city of Verdun goes back 30 centuries. Verdun has preserved for us many traces of its part in history. It is worth taking the time to stroll round the historic heart of the city and discover what it has to offer.

In 1920 the Government decided to create a Red Zone at Verdun, to mark the soil rendered sterile by shell fragments and polluting chemicals. Ten years later, it received its first covering of some 10 million black pines, sent from Austria. The nine destroyed villages included in this Red Zone will never again see the light of day, but the Prefect of the Meuse assures they will be maintained as memorials, by continuing to nominate a mayor to each one. Starting from the Tourism Office, join the Green Way Cycle Path in the Parc Japiot opposite. 4.5 miles. Continue straight on, as far as the Canal Lock at BRAS-SUR-MEUSE. Cross the bridge to reach the opposite bank and follow the canal as far as the next bridge. Leave the Cycle Path, join the road and turn left, to reach the Stop sign opposite the Boulangerie. Turn right onto the main road, then left opposite the restaurant 8.2 miles. Follow the main road and climb up to the Tranchée des Baïonnettes. 8.75 miles. Continue to climb, then after passing the restaurant, turn right and arrive at the Ossuaire de Douaumont. If you climb on foot the 204 steps inside the tower, you will have a 360 degree panoramic view of the entire battlefield 9.25 miles. Retrace your route to the Stop sign. To visit the disappeared village of Douaumont, go left and then immediately right and take the dead-end road to the disappeared village of Douaumont, then return to the main road. Alternatively, to go direct to the Fort de Douaumont, at the Stop sign turn right and descend to the next turning. At the Monument to the Unknown Soldier, turn left, towards the Fort de Douaumont. 9.7 miles. On the road to the Fort de Douaumont, you will cross over the Boyau de Londres. 10 miles. On reaching the Fort de Douaumont, dismount and climb on foot onto the roof of the Fort, where you will have a panorama view of the horizon which in 1916 marked the German frontier. You can also take the path on the left between the shell craters, which in 300 yards leads you to the lookout point. 10.3 miles. Return back to the Monument to the Unknown Soldier and turn left. On your left you will pass Abri (Shelter) 320 and on your right the National Cemetery. 11.8 miles. At the crossroads, turn left and pedal as far as the disappeared village of Fleury-devant-Douaumont. 12.2 miles. Continue straight on and pass the Mémorial de Verdun, dedicated to the Great War 1914-1918. 12.4 miles. Carry on to the Souville Lion, the monument which marks the nearest point to Verdun reached by the Germans in 1916, and where they were finally stopped. 12.75 miles. At the crossroads turn right and descend towards Verdun. You can visit the Souville fortified plateau by taking the small path on the left. There you can visit the unique Bussière twin turret, the Pamart machine gun casemates, and the ammunition shelters. 12.9 miles. On the road descending to Verdun, stop to admire the Maginot Monument on the left. A little further along there is a picnic area in the forest where you can rest. 15.3 miles. After crossing the railway bridge, at the Stop sign, cross over and pass by the Faubourg Cemetery. At the next Stop sign turn right, then immediately left, and pass the Braquier Dragée factory. At the roundabout, turn right and pass the Parc de Londres. Then at the next roundabout, turn left towards the Tourism Office.

This tour is the perfect way to discover Verdun for the first time. It invites cyclists to explore the city's history through the centuries, from the 10th century to the present day. You'll discover lively Verdun with its quays, medieval Verdun and contemporary Verdun with its art deco facades. Pedal to the rhythm of the Meuse on the Véloroute voie verte, enjoy the peace and quiet of the canal banks and explore Verdun's "Little Venice". The city boasts no fewer than five canals and twenty bridges. Originally, these canals were used by the many mills, tanneries and for navigation. Although some have been buried, you can still admire the Canal St-Airy, with its stone bridge and 16th-century house, the Canal du Puty, which runs alongside the ramparts, the Pont-écluse St-Amand and its Canal St-Vanne, and the discreet Canal de Minimes, which winds its way through the houses of Verdun.

This tour allows you to discover the Left Bank and the beauty of the landscapes of the Meuse Valley along the canal. Dead man’s hill (Le Homme-mort) has suffered some of the most deadliest combats just as much as those on the right bank. Today, it is a pleasant wooded mound that you can enjoy visiting. This course is perfect for a first try of the electric bike. Easy and with little difference in altitude, it will be perfect for a nice stroll with family or friends ! Limited in supply and manpower, the Kronprinz army cannot attack simultaneously on both banks of the Meuse. In order to obtain better results on the right bank, C.Q.G. German prepared the second phase of its offensive whose main objective was to take control of the hills of Mort-Homme (Dead man’s hill) and the Côte 304. These two natural observatories regulated the fires of the French artillery; it is in fact a crucial stake for the offensive continuation. The fighting raged on there for weeks, destroying villages of Esnes-EN-ARGONNE and Chattancourt. Rapidly, the battle peaks became untenable volcanoes; suicidal assaults fade to move on to countless murderous gunshots . To protect themselves from bombing, both sides took refuge on the hillside, digging tunnels. On August 20, 1917, the generals Guillaumat and Pétain begin a to put victorious offensive which has the effect four German divisions attached to the sector Mort-Homme-cote 304 to flight. To the thousands of prisoners, material and armaments captured, must also be added more than twenty thousand victims whose units appear on the current monuments. In this inferno, the village of Cumières will disappear completely and will never be rebuilt.

“Forêt d’Exception®” walking trail – From Verdun to Souville As part of the Forêt d’Exception® label, Meuse Attractivité and the ONF invite you to discover the Verdun battlefield in a new way through a walking trail starting from the Verdun Memorial. Two routes are available, 2.7 km or 4.8 km (duration: approximately 1.5 hours), to explore the fortified massif of Souville, a key site of French resistance in 1916. The route reveals iconic remains: the Fort de Souville, its armored battery, an artillery bench, and the Lion de Souville, a moving tribute to the combatants. As you walk along these forest trails, you will be treading on land forever marked by the 300 days and nights of hell in Verdun, which cost the lives or disappearance of nearly 700,000 men. Reforested in 1923 with 36 million trees covering a 20,000-hectare Red Zone, the national forest today bears witness to an exceptional effort of remembrance and resilience. A veritable open-air museum, it can be explored with respect, combining history, nature, and contemplation.

Douaumont discovery trail: a journey between history and nature Discover Douaumont and its surroundings on an immersive 2 km walk, ideal for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Departure from Douaumont Fort : Start your adventure at the heart of this emblematic First World War monument. Follow the Boyau de Londres: Walk this historic path, once essential for soldiers, and feel the atmosphere of this place steeped in memory. Explore the Forêt d'exception de Verdun: Let yourself be enchanted by this majestic forest, renowned for its ecological richness and history. Along the way, don't miss the TD3 shelter, a discreet witness to past conflicts. High point at the Fort de Douaumont lookout : Conclude your tour in style at the belvedere, from where you can contemplate an unparalleled view of the fort's western counterscarp and ditches. This unique perspective on the fort will enable you to appreciate its grandeur and strategic importance. Join us for an enriching walk combining natural beauty and historical memory, right in the heart of Douaumont.

Follow in the footsteps of history in the heart of the Verdun Forest of Exceptional Beauty® with the Fort de Vaux hiking trail. This 6 km (approx. 2.5 hour) trail takes you through iconic sites of the 1916 battlefield: Bois Fumin, Étang de Vaux, the former trenches, the monument to the chasseurs à pied (light infantry) and the Maurice Dubuc cenotaph. After the terrible “300 days and 300 nights” of the Battle of Verdun, this scarred land has been transformed into a rich and peaceful national forest thanks to the planting of 36 million trees. Now classified as a Forêt d’Exception® (Exceptional Forest), it bears witness to the work of remembrance and resilience carried out for over a century. This trail in the heart of nature invites you to walk among the trees, where thousands of fallen soldiers lie, in what is now a veritable open-air museum. An experience that is both historical and natural, moving and soothing.

This house is located in a quiet village in the South of the Ardennes, nearby historical sites (WWI and WW2) of the Argonne. Garden, swimming pool, games for children. 4 bedrooms (1 double bed, 4 single beds, 2 double beds). 2 shower rooms (1 is equiped with a washing machine), toilets. Fully equiped kitchen (ceramic hob, microwave oven, dish washer), large living room, TV, DVD player, hi-fi system, telephone, 2 single sofa beds. Terrace with BBQ and garden furniture.

Domaine de Montflix, bed and breakfast in Argonne. Welcome to Argonne and its hilly landscapes, rivers and majestic forest. The Montflix bed and breakfast welcomes you in a 19th century main building where children will enjoy meeting the farmyard animals. The 3 guest rooms can accommodate from 1 to 4 people and are all equipped with a terrace and private bathrooms. Wireless. Nearby, visit Reims and its Champagne cellars, Verdun and its underground city, Sedan and its castle... but you can also stroll in the large panoramic garden at your disposal. Tourist tax. Table d'hôtes. Home Bikers. Welcome to the farm. Closed garage for bicycles and motorbikes with the possibility of charging bicycles and electric cars. Prices including breakfast: 1 person: 50 € per night 2 people: 60 € per night 3 people: 65 € per night 4 people: 75 € per night Holiday vouchers accepted

Martine and Jonas offer you a wide range of equipment at the Brinchette gite for the enjoyment of all: inside: covered and heated swimming pool all year round, spa, relaxation room with infrared cabin, billiards, table football, home cinema and convertible sofas. WIRELESS. Outside: playground, trampoline, pétanque court. Equipped kitchen (induction, CG, MO, LV), connecting dining room. 5 bedrooms including one on the ground floor. 2 cots, 2 high chairs. 2 SE with WC, 1 separate WC, LL and SL. Including charges. Supplement per animal: €3/day. Tourist tax. Linen provided. supplement for beds made on arrival

At the heart of a garden, a quaint cottage opens its doors: "Au Balcon du Bonheur": a carefully decorated and furnished double room (with additional sleeping mezzanine) offers sweeping views over this natural setting. A setting that combines massive charm, unusual unearthed objects, atypical rest corners, beautiful ponds and a view of the castle Yvois... The hospitality of the owner will guarantee you a moment of happiness in this scenery and atmosphere. The location means you can enjoy the local heritage and tourist sites in France, Belgium and Luxembourg.

Learn how to make your own cosmetics and household products during workshops (workshops can be done at home, on request) and how to take care of yourself through energy treatments with Karine (Natural creator). In turn, Barbara offers you the opportunity to discover laughter yoga and her individual and group meditation workshops. Registration and appointment required: Barbara 06 42 70 54 88 & Karine 06 75 81 60 53 Instagram @lesmeditationsdalisea @crea_au_naturel

Located on the battlefield of Verdun, the Trench of Chattancourt is a unique place as it was redug on the exact location of an active WW1 frontligne trench. Capturing the original intersection where de Trench of Chattancourt and the Trench of Toulouse met, the reconstructed interior allows visitors to relive how French soldiers experienced life ine the trenches in 1916. Each part of the trench has been rebuilt as it was during the war thanks to original maps and documents, photographs and the accounts of the soldiers who served here. Visitors can experience for themselves what life was like in the trenches thanks to the detailed construction techniques, numerous original artifacts and informative explanations provided. More than 100 meters of original trench and shelters have been dug and built exactly as it was during WW1. This is a very interesting place either for adults or kids to understand the War of trenches.

This village, the only one on the left bank of the Meuse among the nine villages destroyed during the war of 1914-18, had 205 inhabitants in 1913. It has very ancient origins, as a sepulchral well dating from the Neolithic period was discovered there in 1873. In the Middle Ages, one of the lords of Cumières began to extort all those who passed through his lands, particularly the inhabitants of Verdun. The latter banded together against him and destroyed his castle in 1439. Nearly five centuries later, the entire village would suffer the same fate, but for different reasons. Indeed, after the German army launched its massive offensive in February 1916 to capture Verdun from the heights on the right bank of the Meuse, the German general staff decided to outflank the French resistance from the west... The Germans first sought to seize the heights of Mort-Homme during a particularly deadly battle that lasted 10 days, from March 6 to 16, 1916. They succeeded and extended their attack on March 20 towards Hill 304, located further west. The fighting was fierce under a veritable deluge of fire and in appalling weather conditions. Further to the east, Cumières, held by the 5th Battalion of the 254th Infantry Regiment, was attacked from May 16 to 23, 1916. The village fell into German hands on May 24, 1916, despite the heroic defense by French infantrymen. It was not until August 20, 1917, that the ruins of the village of Cumières were recaptured by the Marching Regiment of the Foreign Legion. At the end of the war, in 1918, Cumières was placed in the "red zone" along with the entire Mort-Homme hill, then received the unique status of "destroyed village" along with eight other equally devastated villages in the Meuse. Between the two wars, veterans, very active in honoring the memory of the countless soldiers who died, were wounded, or disappeared in the mud of this significant battlefield, helped erect the impressive skeleton monument on Mort-Homme in 1922 and eventually added the name of this bloody hill to that of the destroyed village of Cumières, "Died for France," just like the 10,000 soldiers who fell in this Mort-Homme sector. Finally, like in the other eight destroyed villages on the right bank of the Meuse, Cumières le Mort-Homme erected the Saint-Rémi chapel on August 6, 1933, using the stones from the old church to remind people that this was once a happy village, at the foot of its hill. To see: The Saint-Rémi chapel built with the stones from the old church (paintings by Lucien Lantier); The war memorial; The skeleton monument (a striking work by sculptor Jacques Froment-Meurice, erected by the association of veterans of the 63rd Infantry Division) at the top of Mort-Homme hill; The remains of the mill's former lock.

Here, the unstructured garden rises up and takes on three dimensions. The orthogonals form an arbour, and those who take shelter there find themselves at the center of a perfect cube. It is light that will reconstruct the design of the Jardin du OUI. Indeed, when the sun is at its zenith, the shadows draw the labyrinth of right angles on the circles on the ground, thus completing, in an immaterial way, the original layout. It is the interplay between structures, materials and sunlight that gives meaning to this garden, under which one can "only say YES". A garden for "palavering" and saying YES to biodiversity, YES to Peace.

At the entrance to the village, the Vacherauville bridge catches the eye with its unusual architecture. It is made up of metal modules from the artificial “Mulberry” ports used during the Allied landings in Normandy in June 1944. These elements, known as “Whale” pontoons, were used to create floating jetties for landing troops and equipment on the beaches. After the war, several of these structures were reused in different regions of France, particularly for crossing rivers and canals. The Vacherauville bridge is one of the few remaining examples of this Allied technical ingenuity, which contributed to the success of the Liberation. Still in use today, it connects the two banks of the Meuse River and is an iconic crossing point for locals and visitors alike. Discovering this bridge also means delving into a history that goes beyond Verdun, linking the memory of the Great War to that of the Second World War.

The German offensive to seize Verdun was launched in February 1916. At the beginning of March, fighting broke out on the hills of Mort-Homme. The French put up heroic resistance under a deluge of fire. 10,000 poilus died in this sector. Monument du Mort-Homme, by sculptor Jacques Froment-Meurice. Rising from his shroud, the soldier's skeleton cries out in victory. On one arm, he carries a flag, symbolizing the nation for which he sacrificed himself, while on the other, he brandishes the torch of victory. On the base of the monument, the words "Ils n'ont pas passé" (They didn't pass) recall the sacrifice of French combatants for the possession and preservation of this observatory hill on the left bank of the Meuse. Cumières, declared a "village that died for France", became Cumières le Mort-Homme in 1922. In memory of the village, the Saint-Rémi chapel was built from the stones of the former church, in the middle of an enclosure preceded by a monument to remind us that this was once a peaceful village.

A stained-glass window by Paris and Hendaye glass-maker Jean François Aute, donated by the 56th and 59th Chasseurs, is dedicated to Colonel Driant. Below it is a coat of arms also representing him. Another stained-glass window depicts hunters resting in the village.

In the heart of the village, Saint-Martin Church tells the turbulent history of Vacherauville. Of ancient origin, it was completely destroyed during World War I and then rebuilt in 1930 in a sober and harmonious style. Inside, visitors can admire a remarkable stained-glass window of remembrance, donated by former infantrymen in tribute to Colonel Driant, a heroic figure who fell during the Battle of Verdun. This artistic testimony gives the building a strong memorial dimension. Between 2018 and 2021, the church and its surroundings underwent major restoration work: masonry, stained glass windows, electricity, and enhancement of the nearby war memorial. Today, the complex is a place of contemplation and remembrance, but also a fine example of heritage rebuilt after 1918. An essential stop for anyone wishing to discover the local history and spiritual heritage of the Meuse Valley.

Situated on the edge of a vast green meadow along the tranquil banks of the Meuse, this picnic area offers a welcoming table for your moments of relaxation. Just a few meters from the Véloroute voie verte, it's the ideal spot for a well-deserved break from cycling. Let yourself be seduced by the soothing setting, where the murmur of the river invites you to relax. Take the time to soak your feet in the cool waters of the Meuse and savor the moment in all its simplicity.

Discover a poignant place of remembrance in Verdun, where 4,537 French soldiers who fell in the First World War (1914-1918) are laid to rest, with a further 2,000 honored in two ossuaries. In addition, 151 French soldiers who fought in the Second World War (1939-1945) also find their final resting place here.

On July 10, 1940, when the defeat of the French armies was complete, only eighty members of parliament gathered in Vichy refused to grant Marshal Pétain, the "victor of Verdun", full constituent powers. Among them was Gaston Thiébaut, born in Samogneux and deputy mayor of Verdun. Gaston Thiébaut is buried in the Samogneux cemetery. In his honor, a street and a square bear his name. In the village, by the side of the departmental road, you can see the statue of Père Barnabé, a character created by Henri Frémont in 1917. Père Barnabé is the archetypal Meuse peasant, uprooted and a refugee during the First World War.

Just a stone's throw from Verdun, discover a warm and festive cabaret in the heart of the Meuse countryside! Live singing, dancing, comedy, and drag performances come together in a colorful show worthy of the greatest Parisian stages. Enjoy a gourmet dinner show (3 options to choose from) in a friendly and refined atmosphere. Open on weekends + reservations available on weekdays for groups. An unforgettable experience to enjoy as a couple, with family, or with friends!

Our establishment, located in the station district, just 700 meters from the city center, is the perfect place for a gourmet break. Self-service meals, a quick and convenient option for your meals. Come and discover our restaurant, where friendliness and quality come together to offer you a moment of relaxation and gastronomic pleasure. Enjoy a variety of traditional Lorraine dishes and other specialties, prepared with quality ingredients to delight all palates. Enjoy our delicious dishes at home thanks to our takeaway service.

Fast food to eat in or take away: rolls, salads, hot dogs and home-made hamburgers, Polish specialities. Located in the town centre near the Porte Chaussée.

Themed restaurant: "a la plancha" dishes.

A Japanese restaurant. At Misosushi, we are proud to offer the very best produce in terms of quality and freshness, prepared in accordance with our culinary traditions.

Fast food to eat in or take away: rolls, salads, hot dogs and home-made hamburgers, Polish specialities. Located in the town centre near the Porte Chaussée.

A great selection of more than 250 beers from micro breweries or slightly larger breweries, plus a selection of more than 40 whiskies.

A pub restaurant in magnificent surroundings on the river bank, near the underground citadel. There's something for everybody: salads, flammekueches, burgers, pizzas, mussels, meat etc. Several menus available.

Le Glacier is an unexpected, convivial place with a designer interior. You'll find specialities here that you won't find anywhere else in Verdun - savoury and sweet pancakes, mussels and chips, steamed dishes, ice creams, milk shakes, smoothies, coffees, teas and Italian chocolates. This is modern, healthy, well-balanced fare. Free WiFi access. Eat here or takeaway.

Indian and Pakistani specialities. Chef's special at lunchtime: €9.90. Menus from €16.99 to €23.

Large bungalow located on the outskirts of Thierville, near Verdun. Ideal for a stay with family or friends. Beds made on arrival and linen provided.

Beautiful turn-of-the-century house, offering three spacious and pleasant bedrooms, all tastefully decorated. Each room has its own entrance, private bathroom and toilet, and private parking. For your relaxation, you'll find a sitting area with a library. A small fridge and microwave are also available for on-site meals. Breakfast is served on the veranda overlooking a large green garden. Located close to Verdun and its historic sites, our house is ideal for your tourist stays. Disabled access: one ground-floor bedroom is equipped with a 90 cm-wide door, a raised toilet, a walk-in shower and a wheelchair-accessible washbasin.

Le Relais du Mess is located in Vacherauville, 8.6 km and 10 km from Fort Douaumont and the Verdun Memorial, respectively. It offers a garden, free private parking, and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. All accommodations feature a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linens, and towels. A continental breakfast is served on site.

Verdun 8km - 5 minutes from historic sites. In a charming village, this gite with its refined decoration will delight you with its view and its direct access to the unspoilt banks of the Meuse. A large, well-equipped kitchen (microwave, induction hob, oven etc). Three steps up to lounge with fireplace, TV, DVD player, stereo system, board games. Terrace with view over the Meuse, south-facing aspect. Pink bedroom with 1 160x200 bed and blue bedroom with 3 90x200 beds; each with en-suite bathroom (rainshower shower head). 2 WC including 1 separate. Storage area for fishing rods or bikes. Washing machine.

Discover a peaceful haven in the heart of nature! This charming marina, surrounded by lush greenery, offers you a serene and picturesque getaway. Stroll along the banks lined with aquatic plants and wildflowers, or relax on the wooden pier that gracefully juts out over the calm water. The red buoys floating peacefully add a touch of bright color to this idyllic landscape. At the foot of the Champ de Bataille, the wooded surroundings and green hills on the horizon create the perfect backdrop for your outdoor adventures. Whether you are a sailing enthusiast, a fishing fanatic, or simply seeking tranquility, this marina promises unforgettable moments in harmony with nature. Bring your camera to capture the serene beauty of this place, and get ready for a relaxing and discovery-filled experience in an exceptional natural setting. Come recharge your batteries and enjoy the authentic charm of this enchanting marina! 60m wide, turning area.

Charny-sur-Meuse is the ideal stopover for combining natural beauty with historical visits. Nestled in a charming village in the Meuse region, at the foot of the battlefield and on the banks of the Meuse River, this peaceful spot invites you to relax and enjoy the serenity. Admire the rich flora and fauna of the Meuse River banks and let yourself be enchanted by the tranquility of the surroundings. Just a few steps from the greenway cycle route, you can follow the towpaths along the Meuse, exploring the picturesque countryside, the meandering river, and the locks. This 27 km route connects the village of Samogneux to Haudainville via the historic town of Verdun! Why choose Charny-sur-Meuse? - Nature and serenity: A haven of peace for lovers of nature and tranquility, with lush forests and green plains. - Rich history: A privileged location at the foot of the battlefield, perfect for history buffs. - Greenway Cycle Route: Enjoy a magnificent 27 km route along the Meuse, ideal for exploring the surrounding countryside. - Comfort and Services: 50 grassy pitches, including 20 stabilized ones, with all the necessary services (waste disposal, electricity, water, Wi-Fi, etc.). Charny-sur-Meuse is a destination that will delight both nature lovers and history buffs. Come and discover this corner of paradise where tranquility and natural beauty meet.

Caters for groups up to 60 people. Meals available if required. Bedrooms sleep 4 to 6 people.

Located right by the historic sites of Verdun, the La Pépinière gite can accommodate 4 persons in 130m2 of great comfort. The ground floor comprises a vast sitting room and a well-equipped kitchen. First floor: two luxurious bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. You also have an open terrace and a garage. All year round.

Gîte de la Saux is ideally located between Argonne and Verdun. The house has been completely renovated. It offers a living area opening onto a terrace and the garden, as well as 3 bedrooms.

Comfortable accommodation for 2 to 4 people with terrace and free parking. Just a few minutes from historic sites and the town center with its shops.