Dampierre-le-chateau, Marne: charm and local discoveries

This trail is a chance to follow in the footsteps of Maurice Genevoix and his comrades in the first months of the First World War. As a young officer aged 24, he boarded the train at Châlons-en-Champagne station on 25 August 1914 with reinforcements for the 106th RI. At the time, they did not know where their train was taking them…the violence and horror of the fighting, but also the friendship and brotherhood between companions. He was discharged after being seriously injured on 25 April 1915. He would deliver a moving account of his part in the war in his major work, “Ceux de 14” (“Those of 14”).

Day 3 of the cycle route created by the Marne Tourism Board to reach the Lake Der-Chantecoq from the town of Dormans. This tourist itinerary alternates between the V52 cycle path and the small roads of the vineyards, in order to enrich the journey with cultural visits. This third and final stage of the journey starts in Châlons-en-Champagne and finishes at Lac du Der, passing through the town of Vitry-le-François. Two options are available at the start of the route: to reach Vitry-le-François by following the V52 or by taking the train. In the first case, it may be preferable to complete this final stage in two days instead of one.

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.

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.

Day 2 of the cycle route created by the Marne Tourism Board to reach the Lake Der-Chantecoq from the town of Dormans. This tourist itinerary alternates between the V52 cycle path and the small roads of the vineyards, in order to enrich the journey with cultural visits. This second stage starts in the village of Mutigny and ends in Châlons-en-Champagne, the capital of the Marne. The route begins in the vineyards and passes through the charming little town of Aÿ, before following the cycle path to Châlons-en-Champagne, where a range of cultural activities await you.

Napoléon et les églises à pan de bois: 118 km / mean level. To see during your trip: Timber-frame churches of Lentilles, Bailly-le-Franc and Juzanvigny, the market hall of Chavanges, Soulaines Dhuys, the lakes of the Orient Forest, the hall of Dienville, theNapoleon and church treasures museum in Brienne-le-Chateau, Forêt d'Orient Ecomuseum in Brienne-la-Vieille, Chruches of Dienville, Epothémont, Hampigny, La Rothière, Chavanges and Maizières-les-Brienne.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

*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 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.

Fill up on oxygen all year round with the Bairon Nautic Club! Holiday courses, sailing lessons or competition sailing, the club welcomes you and offers you lessons in catamarans, dinghies, windsurfers or small habitable boats. To discover, practice or improve your skills, the instructors will accompany you for one or more sessions, according to your wishes. For all these activities, you will be supervised by qualified professionals. Sailing school : From April to October, the club welcomes you and offers courses in catamarans, dinghies, windsurfers or small habitable boats. The rental point is open to the public: From 3 July to 15 August - 7 days a week - from 1pm to 7pm (last departure at 6pm) From 16 August, by reservation only. To do so, please call on the same day from 11:00 am Closed in case of bad weather conditions.

3 km away from the Belgium border (Orval Abbey) and 35 km away from the fortress in Sedan, a house with character (1828) with modern comfort and authentic decoration in a very quiet village. 3 bedrooms (2 bedrooms with twin beds and 1 bedroom with a double bed), 2 separated toilets, 1 bathroom (bath and shower), dining-room (wood stove, baker's oven), large lounge with TV, patio with garden furniture and barbecue set, fully-equipped kitchen (dishwasher, washing machine, microwave, ancient sink). Housekeeping and sheets may be provided. Taxes and heating included (350 KW/week maxi and 350 KW/week end maxi). Shops and activities 5 km away.

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! 

The estate remembers its monastic past in its name. Dotted with ponds, a lake and a stream, the park has some beautiful statues, a rocky grotto, a beehive, angling grounds, a wash-house built in a style typical of the Argonne and a wine cellar with an old wine press and grape grinder in the old Champagne-style outbuildings. The park also has a number of rare trees and numerous hydrangeas. Outside the summer period, tours can be arranged for groups with advance booking.

This modern chapel is an irregular cube of grey concrete standing on piles, blending seamlessly into the surrounding countryside. It was built by Father Rayssiguier, a follower of Le Corbusier. He also worked with Matisse on the chapel in the village of Vence in Southern France. The stained-glass windows were designed by a young Japanese artist, Kimie Bando. The pilgrims' hall provides seating for 60 people at mealtimes.

Discover the history of glass in Argonne, from Antiquity to the present day, created and run by the association of the Friends of Argonne Glass in Les Islettes, located 6 km from Clermont-en-Argonne and 9 km from Sainte-Ménehould. The association is based on more than 50 years of excavations and research, a collection of documents and objects that testify to the importance of this local industry that spread far beyond the country. Videos produced by the association, some in 3D without glasses, enliven the visit.

Beautifully flowered, the village of Beaulieu in Argonne is located on a promontory offering a beautiful view of the Meuse and the forests of the Argonne massif. Houses with exposed wooden frames bear witness to a typical architectural identity of the Argonese region. Originally from the village of Beaulieu-en-Argonne, the 11th century abbey is perceptible by its heritage traces left by time. Houses made of ashlar from the demolition of the abbey in 1790, retaining walls of the abbey plateau are all visible traces. Installed in a brick building, an impressive 13th century oak press, classified as a historical monument, was used to press the reason for the vineyard located on the surrounding slopes. Made from a tree trunk and a counterweight, the whole weighs nearly 30 tons and could once crush up to 3000kg of reason. The Beaulieu press remained in operation until the end of the 19th century. Hiking enthusiasts can continue the visit by accessing the Saint-Rouin chapel via a signposted path starting from the village of Beaulieu. The site is also accessible by road. It is a contemporary chapel made of cubic and irregular concrete blocks resting on stilts. Built by Father Rayssiguier, a disciple of Le Corbusier and a collaborator of Matisse in Vence. The stained glass windows were designed by a young Japanese artist, Kimié Bando.

Set in a brick building, the abbey's press was operational until the end of the 19th century. The well-exposed south - southwest facing slope used to be covered with wines; disappeared with phylloxera epidemic at the start of the 20th century. The press is a protected historical monuments thanks to the personal intervention of President Poincaré in 1926. It comprises a shaft and a counterbalance weighing almost 30 tons with was able to process 3000 kg of grapes.

Former Cistercian abbey founded in the early 12th century. Magnificent rose window from St. Vannes' Abbey in Verdun. Open by arrangement.

The church dedicated to St. Didier was built in the 16th century in a style that was half-Gothic and half-Renaissance. During the First World War, it was set on fire by soldiers from Württemberg. It was rebuilt in 1919. Inside is a statue of the Entombment of Christ, a group sculpture with six statues including the "Holy Woman in a Bonnet" attributed to Ligier Richier.

Located on the road to La Haute Chevauchée, the Ravin du Génie is like an open-air museum, as well as a reminder of the First World War. A 1.2 km trail shows visitors where the soldiers lived and where they stored their equipment. There are information panels all along the path.

Monument in memory of the soldiers of the 369th RIUS and the 15th regiment of the coloured troops (93rd DI) who fought in the sector of Ripont, Mont-Cuvelet and Séchault from 26 September to 1 October 1918 as indicated on the monument.

St. Remy’s is an outstanding Flamboyant Gothic church with ornate hanging keystones, richly carved pinnacles and gargoyles and a carved, painted and gilded altarscreen with shutters depicting scenes from Christ’s Passion.

Welcome to a haven of peace and tranquillity - our family home, a house with character that delights nature lovers. Open Friday lunchtime to Sunday evening and on public holidays. Open other days with advance booking (for groups of 8+).

Le Carré Gourmand welcomes guests in a convivial family atmosphere. Simplicity and generosity are the keywords here. So stop for a while and taste traditional fare from days gone by.

Fast food, alpine specialities, pizzas. Chef's special on weekdays.

Located in a rural setting. Easy to find. Just opposite the church.

Located on the outskirts of Bar-le-Duc, the Auberge du Val d'Ornain offers pleasant, rural surroundings in which to enjoy dishes with a Spanish flavour.

Hotel restaurant, located in the centre of the village of Chaumont-sur-Aire, on the edge of the Voie Sacrée, 14 km from the Meuse TGV station.

Next to the bowling alley. Plancha grill and rotisserie. Wood-fired pizzas.

In a 3-hectare walled estate outside the village of Chaumont-sur-Aire stands an 18th-century watermill, surrounded by centuries-old trees. The setting is one of peace and serenity, an unusual place that feels local yet carries you to far-distant horizons. A collection of butterflies and other insects can be visited as part of various packages.

Reims 80km - Bar-le-Duc 25km. A stone’s throw from the Argonne forest, furnished ground floor of a detached house with courtyard and enclosed garden, away from the busy main street, peace and quiet assured. The village is sheltered by a huge forest with marked trails. Well-equipped kitchen, sitting room with TV with foreign programmes, library. 1 bdrm. (1 160 bed), 1 bdrm. (2 90 beds). Bathroom, separate wc. For baby: travel cot, high chair, changing table, bath. Sheet hire €8.50 per person. Pets on request. All year round.

Anne and Franck are delighted to welcome you to their charming and relaxing gîte. The house is located in the small village of Sommeilles, in the heart of the Argonne, 25 minutes from Bar le Duc, 1h from Reims, 1h45 from Metz, 1h30 from Nancy, and 2h30 from Paris (or 1h by train, the Meuse TGV station is 30 minutes from the gîte). This independent gîte will delight nature lovers (Argonne forest, Saulx Valley, Lac du Der...) and lovers of historic sites (Verdun, Valmy...). You'll find every comfort for 2 to 10 people in this renovated village house: a fully-equipped kitchen, a vast living room with a large corner sofa, 4 large bedrooms including 1 double on the ground floor, with a cot, and 3 bedrooms upstairs, 2 shower rooms + separate WC. The gîte is equipped with fiber optics (Internet and TV). The terrace features a charcoal barbecue, and you'll have access to enclosed grounds, ideal for children, with 2 goats (Cannelle and Pim's), and 3 hens. For the little ones: BB bed, high chair and safety gate, books, board games, crayons, Kapla... You can also visit the farm (milk and cereal production) and make friends with Franck's cows and calves! We'll also be happy to advise you on the best places to visit in the area, and if you feel like it, we'll be delighted to let you taste the local produce. For workers and employees on business trips: rates and availability on request, depending on the number of rooms used and the number of nights.

Guest accommodation in an old, renovated woodman's cabin. On the ground floor is a lounge and kitchenette. Above is the attic room with double bed, shower room and toilet. Breakfast is served in the owners' dining room, a few yards from the guest accommodation.

Les Islettes 3.6km - Clermont en Argonne 10km - Verdun 38 km. This gite, in a former presbytery, is set in a green landscape. Get off the beaten track, and explore the charm of the Argonne region, with all its typical little villages. Village gite, adjoining another gite and comprising: kitchen/dining room/lounge with TV. 3 bedrooms (1 double bed and 4 single beds). Bathroom/WC and separate WC. Gas central heating. Non-enclosed garden. Prices include all expenses. Pets on request.

Les Islettes 3.6km - Clermont en Argonne 10km - Verdun 38 km. This gite, in a former presbytery, is set in a green landscape. Get off the beaten track, and explore the charm of the Argonne region, with all its typical little villages. Village gite, adjoining another gite and comprising: kitchen/dining room/lounge with TV. 3 bedrooms (1 double bed and 4 single beds), cot available. Bathroom, 2 separate WCs. Gas central heating. Non-enclosed garden. Prices include all expenses. All year round + weekends.

Located 9.5 km from Clermont-en-Argonne, the Camping Pierre Cochenet in Futeau is a municipal campsite with 25 pitches with electricity.

Seasonal rental located in the Argonne countryside. It is surrounded by a vast landscaped park. Ideal for a family holiday, between relaxation, walks and historical sites.

Verdun 40 km - Sainte-Ménéhould 15 km. Year-round welcome from Michel Clo in the charming hamlet of Bellefontaine, nestling in the heart of the forest of Argonne. Peace and comfort are to be found in the four character bedrooms, including one suite that is equipped for people with reduced mobility. TV, en-suite facilities in each room. 1 Yemeni-style suite (1 double bed), 1 African room (1 double bed), 1 Indian room (twin beds) and a Provence room (3 pers., 1 double and 1 single bed). From your bedrooms you can admire the hectare of wooded parkland that is availablefor your enjoyment. Open all year.

In the hamlet of Bellefontaine, in the heart of the Argonne forest, you'll discover this 100m² typical Argonne house. On 2 levels, you'll appreciate the comfort of this house, ideal for 4 people. Nature lovers will be delighted by the surrounding environment, and can take advantage of the hiking trails starting from the gîte. We can lend you 3 mountain bikes if you wish. When you return from your walk, you can enjoy the jacuzzi reserved for you (at no extra charge) on the veranda. You'll be able to disconnect from your daily routine and contemplate nature. Rooms have 2 queen-size beds (160x200) made up on arrival. Linen and towels are provided at no extra charge (including bathrobes).

Bar-le-Duc 20 km. Located in the outhouses of a castle that was once a fortified house built to guard the border between Champagne and Lorraine, “Via Romana” has 3 double bedrooms, 3 bathrooms and a spacious living room with open-plan kitchen. The gîte has been renovated throughout. It is situated on an estate with “jardin remarquable” (outstanding garden) status so guests have the added enjoyment of superb surroundings. Tennis court and swimming pool on site, shared with the other gîte, La Leurande.