Discover Chevillon, Haute-Marne: hidden gems

Promenade de la Dhuys - duration: 3h - marking white and green - easy level. Untamed but chanelled by man, the water draws us in to share its mysteries...

Des coteaux du champagne aux sources de la Dhuys "“ 58 km "“ mean level. To see during your trip: Soulaines-Dhuys, Bar-sur-Aube and its church, Champagne cellars, Colombé-le-Sec : a typical 4 flowery village

Mean level - To see during your tip: Timber-frame churches of Bailly-le-Franc, Lentilles - Panoramic view of the lake Amance and its Marina in Dienville - Potteries in Amance - Bar sur Seine: the tower of clock, the vestiges of the feodal chateau - The Tourist Route of Champagne.

La Venise Verte - duration: 1h - marking: white and yellow - very esay level.

Promenade des Colombé - duration: 2h45 - easy level - marking: white and green. Champagne: the land steeped with history producing the results of man, pure ambroisia!

This trail, located in the high woods of the Western Vosges, leads to sensitive natural environments, to the remarkable flora and fauna. From the ancient Froide-Fontaine 12th century abbey to the limestone grassland of Villouxel, the smallest of the Western Vosges, you will discover historical and natural treasures. A beautiful walk not to be missed !

Promenade du Bocage - duration: 2h45 - easy level - marking white and green. Discover fauna and flora in the "Champagne humide"...

In the heart of the forest of Sionne and of Frebécourt, there are 4 indomitable dwarf beeches. You will encounter these fantastic trees with their fairytale appearance, but also another equally strange phenomenon : the sinkhole. The images intermingle, in a few metres the landscape can change rapidly. Generous and verdant nature, meadows, where flows the Saônelle stream are part of the landcape.

This trail in the Colombelle woods will enable you to discover for a short time the flora and fauna of the Western Vosges. You will walk along winding roads surrounded by beeches. Further on, you will discover the old sandpit of Coussey and the Combes des Enfants (valley). Take a look ! Breathe in ! Recharge your batteries !

Fabulous Vegan and gluten free B&B in the gorgeous countryside of the Champagne-Ardennes. All 5 rooms are fully equipped and furnished to a high standard with private en suite with shower, basin and WC. A homemade vegan and gluten free breakfast is included in the price, as well as tourist tax. The Rose room and Garden room are suitable to bring a dog, The Flamingo room and Leaf room are suitable for families and have space for a children's cot. On request you can join us every day for a three course meal, depending on availability. If you would like a picnic please ask about the options at the moment of booking. The property can also be rented as a self-catering holiday home per weekend, midweek or week.

A 25 m swimming pool and a paddling pool with games for children. A fitness area (cardio training, muscle strengthening: rowers, elliptical bicycles, treadmills, classic bicycles, bicycles with back support). A wellness area with sauna, hammam and Jacuzzi.

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.

Amidst the village, this beautifully restored farmhouse has been converted into a self-catering accommodation furnished to a high and comfortable standard. On the ground floor, vast living-room (fireplace, TV, hi-fi, juke-box). Open plan kitchen, dishwasher, washing machine, microwave oven, freezer. 1 bedroom (double bed, 2 single beds) ensuite bathroom. Toilets. On the first floor: lounge, TV, mezzanine with 2 single beds, 2 bedrooms (2 single beds). Bathroom, toilets, 1 bedroom (1 double bed + 2 single beds in a mezzanine) ensuite bathroom and toilet. Terrace equipped with garden furniture and BBQ. Enclosed garden 2500m². Garage. Ping-Pong. Basketball. Swing. Bakery, newspaper store nearby. Shops in Vouziers, 15km away.

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

Take to the skies during a hot air balloon flight over Reims and its surroundings!  You will enjoy an exceptional view of the Champagne region, taking in all of its distinct natural and architectural heritage. TAKE TO THE SKIES DURING A HOT AIR BALLOON FLIGHT OVER REIMS AND ITS SURROUNDINGS! You will enjoy an exceptional view of the Champagne region, taking in all of its distinct natural and architectural heritage. Upon your arrival, attend the inflation of the balloon before climbing into the basket and leaving Taissy behind for an escapade in the skies above Reims. Rising with the wind, you will fly over Reims at high altitude to gaze down on its renowned architectural heritage from the sky. You'll then be treated to spectacular views of the iconic vineyards and hillsides of Champagne as you fly over the Champagne Tourist Route or the Montagne de Reims Regional Nature Park. Once you return to solid ground, you’ll share a traditional balloonists toast to celebrate your adventure. A charming interlude in the airs of Reims to discover the landscapes of Champagne.

*COVID-19 Special measures*The measures above cancel and replace the usual informations- The museum is closed on mornings and opened on afternoons on appointment.- Visit of 10 people maximum - Mandatory mask - Guided tour and signposted route in the museum - Open bistro with social distancing - Installation of tables in the garden (for bistro) - Setting up the rental of the rosalies (by reservation only) for the Interpretation Trail. ------------------------------------------ Verlaine traveled a lot, yet, of all the places he frequented, very few are still standing. Among those few buildings, only one is still intact and accessible to the public: the Auberge du Lion d'Or (the Golden Lion's Inn) in Juniville. Located in front of the house Verlaine used to rent, not far from his farm, the inn has become the Verlaine Museum today. In this accommodation "for walkers and riders", the furniture has not moved: time has stopped and the soul remained intact.  More than just a simple reminder of the poet, this 1500m² place will make you revisit his life and work thanks to a unique iconographic collection, a quality commented visit, the provision of his complete works (prose, poetry and letters) and, of course, the particular atmosphere we can feel as we walk in.  After your visit, you'll still have to discover the 1000m² old garden, the temporary exhibitions and the pub. From 1st November to 31st March, Monday to Friday from 2pm to 5pm or the morning on appointment From 1st April to 31st October, Tuesday to Sunday from 2pm to 6pm or the morning on appointment  Commented visits: Individuals 6 €, Groups 4 € (10 people), Schools 2€ educational booklets on request). INTERPRETATION TRAIL Departing from the Verlaine Museum, the Juniville interpretation trail invites you to discover the heritage of Juniville by walking in the footsteps of Paul Verlaine while retracing the life and work of the poet. 9 viewpoints have been created in the village, each of them with informative consoles, silhouettes, informative slides or poems whisperers. To go further in your stroll, your knowledge of Verlaine or simply have fun with your family, ask for the booklet "Fair day in Juniville with Verlaine" at the museum. Through its riddles, illustrations and anecdotes, you will learn more about the beautiful heritage of Juniville! Booklet available for free at the Verlaine Museum RIMBAUD-VERLAINE ROUTE Juniville is the first stop on the 300-kilometer Rimbaud-Verlaine tourist route that leads to Belgium and offers a true poetic pilgrimage, evoking the wanderings of these great names of the French literature. The landscapes along this route are in perfect harmony with these unusual characters.

Take a trip back in time aboard a vintage 2CV, the iconic French mid-century automobile, to discover the must-see sights of Reims and the nearby vineyards. In the company of your driver-guide, set off on an original 2-hour ride. ON THIS QUIRKY 2-HOUR TOUR, YOUR DRIVER-GUIDE WILL TAKE YOU INTO THE HEART OF THE CITY OF REIMS AND OUT TO THE FAMOUS VINEYARDS OF CHAMPAGNE COUNTRY. From the car, you’ll be able to admire fine examples of the city’s rich heritage including the Reims Cathedral and Tau Palace, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Abbey of Saint-Remi, a registered historic monument, also lays on the tour circuit.  Your driver will then head out to Hautvillers in the Montagne de Reims, home of Dom Perignon and the birthplace of champagne. Take advantage of this original tour to see the best of historic Reims and the prestigious champagne vineyards! 

Discover the unmissable sights of the “City of Kings” and its surroundings thanks to this 1-hr-15-min. tour in a classic 2CV car. Fall under the charm of Reims and the surrounding countryside on this tour with a private chauffeur-guide. TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS UNUSUAL TOUR IN A VINTAGE 2CV TO ADMIRE REIMS AND ITS SURROUNDINGS. ACCOMPANIED BY YOUR DRIVER-GUIDE, SET OFF FOR A 75-MINUTE RIDE THROUGH THE TOWN AND COUNTRY. You’ll be able to admire the valleys and hills that characterize the region of Reims as you make your way out of the city. Stop off on a hillside close to some vineyards, where your guide will reveal all the secrets of the history and production of champagne. As you head back into Reims, you’ll pass some of city’s most important heritage sites such as the Reims Cathedral and Tau Palace, which are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Abbey of Saint-Remi, a registered historic monument, also lays on the tour circuit.  Altogether, this tour by vintage car is a novel and efficient way to discover the “City of Kings” and the champagne vineyards! 

Built in a courtyard adjoining the cloister, protected from the frost and the wind, the "jardin des simples" has been designed according to typical abbey gardens : medicinal and aromatic plants.

This old ornamental ironworks has been turned into an experimental centre "to promote lifestyle in a rural environment". It includes a museum, a high-quality programme of cultural events and agricultural activities (nettles, fruit and vegetable growing). The general public is invited to follow a footpath across the 9-hectare site, past the old abbey and factory. They can also see the shop, with its outstanding collection of cast iron models. An exhibition illustrates the history of this site and the Bar-le-Duc area as a whole. Guided tours are available on Sundays and with advance booking. There is also a shop selling local products. Audioguides are available in French, German and English. A discovery kit is available for children.

12th-century Premonstratensian abbey rebuilt in the 18th century in Stainville between Ménil-sur-Saulx and Juvigny-en-Perthois. The remaining parts of the abbey include the outbuildings, covered well, splendid vaulted cellars and some of the abbey building itself with some fabulous rooms. The church still has its West Front, with two massive square towers. Guided tours available throughout the year on request. Minimum of 10 people required for groups.

The job of the Agence nationale pour la gestion des déchets radioactifs (Andra, national agency for the management of radioactive waste) is to design and install an industrial geological storage facility for radioactive waste at a depth of 500 metres in clay rock. On the site of the underground facility, you can see a model of a storage gallery and find out about the scientific tests conducted on the rock. In the technology gallery, see prototypes of machinery illustrating the principles of deep geological storage. The visit lasts from 2 to 2½ hours.

In the 16th century, the aristocracy of the Duchy of Bar owned country-châteaux in the "Vallée de la Saulx", a few miles away from Bar-le-Duc. In 1506, Pierre Merlin, auditor of the Duke of Bar, had his castle built in Haironville. The general architecture of the castle de la Varenne is sober, the proportions very harmonious. The pigeon-house, a royal privilege, ends the left wing, proud of its 3000 pigeeon-holes. In the main hall, both the magnificent and rare Renaissance stone panelled ceiling and the 18th century main staircase are vivid witnesses of the history of la Varenne. The grounds, surrounded by the river "la Saulx", include a terrace in the French style and a romantic park with remarkable trees.

Considering the age of the plantations, one can come to the conclusion that the park has been designed around 1880, probably by the great-great grandfather of the actual owners... It is hard to imagine the gardens of Pierre Merlin, when he lived there, at the turn of the 16th century ! We only own a fairly simple plan of the gardens, dated 1793 : the terrace was then divided into four grass-plots, which became in the 19th century one single grass-plot, surrounded by a box rim; The grounds show definitely two different approaches : the terrace "à la française" and the park itselsf, a vast meadow dotted by distant clumps of trees, as far as one can see... A romantic walk along the shaded banks of the river Saulx, stone benches now and then, allowing some rest and gorgeous points of view on the castle, the river ot the 17th century stone bridge of the village : all is combined to gratify the visitors.

Within the boundaries of the three towns of Naix-aux-forges, St-Amand-sur-Ornain and Boviolles. The Cité des Leuques Association gives visitors a fascinating look at local and regional history every summer through the work carried out here. There are bucolic guided walks from June to the end of September to see the Roman town or the capital of the Ancient Gauls. On some weekends, the walks include a visit to the archaeological digs where you can meet researchers and see their latest finds. During the summer, you'll find the legionaries of the 22nd Nasium Legion here, as well as their craftsmen. Their costumes, equipment and work have been carefully copied from items in the museum or the region's unique archaeological research. There is also a field gun, a faithful replica that is the only one of its kind in France. Throughout the year, visits and events can be arranged on request for adults or school groups: walks, an archaeological dig for beginners, pottery workshops, mosaic work etc.

Located in the former railway station at Ligny-en-Barrois, the Musée Militaire pour la Paix exhibits relics from the two world wars. Its founder, Francis Guénon, began assembling this collection at the age of 5. It presents objects from the various armies involved in these conflicts, some of which are extremely rare. The aim of this museum is to pass on the testimony of these difficult periods in our history, to raise public awareness of the pain of conflict and the joy of peace.

The Parc des Luxembourg was the former pleasure park of the Counts of Ligny-en-Barrois. By the 14th century, the park was already offering young Pierre de Luxembourg peace and quiet. Its "L" shape has remained unchanged since the beginning. Covering 8 hectares, it is bordered by the waters of the Ornain river. The cannon tower, 40 m in diameter, formed the southern corner of the castle rampart. Its layout is still visible, and large rubble stones testify to its age. Purchased by the town of Ligny-en-Barrois in 1794, it was classified as a Historic Monument in 1932.

The 22-metre Valéran Tower is all that remains of the fortified outer wall which protected the Counts of Ligny's castle. The tower remains the most significant example of mediaeval architecture. Building began in the 12th century but was not completed until the 15th century. Major features of the system of defence include the slit windows and machicolations. The tower was used as a local prison in the 18th and 19th centuries. Open throughout the year for groups with advance booking.

The restaurant has 2 menus at weekends. During the week, there is a lunch special.

Bar, hotel, restaurant, cafeteria. Open 6 days a week from 7am to 10.30pm. Cafeteria open for lunch, Mondays to Fridays. Menu from €24 or set menu at €18 in the restaurant + a la carte. Free WiFi.

Located beside the Parc des Luxembourg, the restaurant du Parc welcome guests every day. The atmosphere is family-oriented and the restaurant serves traditional fare as well as the chef's specialities.

Sandwiches, salads, toasted sandwiches, ice creams, milkshakes, waffles, pancakes, and seasonal home-made cakes / pastries.

L'Athéna is a restaurant, bar and brasserie ideally located for a break. You'll be warmly welcomed by the staff, who will be able to discuss the menu with you. Located in the town centre, its busy summer alfresco dining area is a pleasant place to sit and watch the world go by.

Located in the centre of Ligny-en-Barrois at the gateway to Lorraine, Le Cheval Blanc has all the charm and conviviality of a restaurant with its own character. It's a gourmet stopover combining traditional, copious cuisine with an appeal to the senses.

Inventive cuisine. The 5 styles of decoration make this the only restaurant of its kind in the region. Outstanding value for money. Kids' play area and area for baby. Ideal for functions, birthday parties, weddings and meetings. Catering service available.

"Welcome to Fabulous Frenchy's Diner"! Typical American decor including a real school bus and a Ford Mustang. On the menu: hamburgers, hot dogs, bagels, fajitas, American specialities, salads, pasta, omelettes, grilled meat etc. Not to mention a huge choice of desserts! Outside meal times, the ambiance is one of a bar and tearoom, with a veranda. Located in the Grande Terre area close to the E. Lerclerc hypermarket.

As soon as you walk into the Buffalo Grill, you'll find yourself in the atmosphere of the Wild West in the days of cowboys and Indians. This is a high-quality steak house that specialises in grilled meat.

Dressed in a high-tech jacket and equipped with a laser pistol, your mission is to put your opponents out of action. Thrills and special effects guaranteed!

Charming little house in the heart of the village, easily accessible from the N4. The house has one bedroom (bed 160x200) and a sofa bed with comfortable mattress in the living room. 12 km from Saint-Dizier, 22 km from Bar-le-Duc.

Between Saint-Dizier and Ligny-en-Barrois. Enjoy a break in quiet surroundings and charming rooms in the country. 1 double room (double bed) and one suite for 2 people (double bed) with a double bed settee and babycare equipment (cot, changing table). They each have a private shower and toilet. Living room with balcony, TV lounge with fireplace.

7 spacious bedrooms with en-suite (6 double rooms and 1 triple), common room with table, chairs and lounge area, well-equipped kitchen. Rentals available per room or for the entire gîte.

Saint-Dizier 25 km - Bar-le-Duc à 25 km. 2 bedrooms in a very beautiful 19th-century house near the Der Lake (35 mins from Giffaumont-Champaubert, 25 mins from Eclaron). Private, enclosed parking - swimming pool. From mid-May to the end of August.

In a quiet village close to all amenities, the Appart des Chevreuils comprises an equipped kitchen, a living room, 2 bedrooms and a sofa bed, a shower room and a separate toilet. Parking is available nearby. Reduced rate for 1 person only, please contact us.

Well-equipped kitchen, large common room (capacity: 60 people) with open fire. 5 bedrooms on ground floor (3 or 4 single beds per room), 4 bedrooms upstairs (3 to 5 single beds per room). Booking required.

In the pretty Saulx valley, 15 km from Bar-le-Duc, the Marigot gîte is a cosy duplex comprising: fully-equipped kitchen, living room with 2 convertible sofas, air-conditioned attic bedroom, shower room. Outside, you'll find a terrace with garden furniture and a swimming pool, accessible in summer at extra cost. A beauty and wellness center and massage service are available in the immediate vicinity, at an additional cost and upon reservation. The gîte is ideal for a relaxing romantic getaway.

At the heart of a small village in the Saulx valley with a population of 170, the Gîte de la Goélette was built partly in a former stable. The accommodation on two levels comprises four separate rooms and a small terrace where you can take breakfast and other meals. You will be welcomed by the owners, Evelyne and Francis, who will be on hand to ensure you have a pleasant stay. This small, cosy 3-star gîte is fully equipped, with TV, Wifi and air-conditioning in the bedroom. There is space for two adults, plus two children, and the owners can provide a cot if required.

Single-storey gîte in a pretty village in the Saulx valley, 15 km from Bar-le-Duc and 18 km from Saint-Dizier. It has 3 bedrooms, a kitchen opening onto the living room, a bedroom with 2 single beds (90), a bedroom with a bed 140 and a bedroom with a bed 160, a shower room and a separate toilet. Outdoor space with garden furniture. Beds made up on arrival and one shower sheet per person provided. In the village, just a few meters from the gîte, you'll find a restaurant and spa. Lac du Der is 40 minutes away. Cyclists are welcome.

Bar le Duc 30 km, Ligny en Barrois 16 km - 15 km from main road (Route Nationale 4). Renovated house at the heart of a former “Cité du Cheval” – or equestrian – village. 2 upstairs rooms with separate entrance: 1 suite for 4 people comprising 1 double bed (180 x 200), lounge area and room with 2 bunk beds, shower room with washbasin and WC ; 1 room with twin beds, lounge area, shower room with washbasin and WC. Communal living room reserved exclusively for guests with fully fitted open-plan kitchen with breakfast bar, TV, board games and books. Private parking. Horses and ponies in the nearby carriage-driving school. Stabling available for horses. Rambling/riding trails nearby. Restaurants in village and 4 km away. Open all year.