Explore Champlin, Ardennes: a blend of nature and history

To travel through the Ardennes is to journey through a landscape that has given rise to many legends. Its secret valleys, its deep forests and its fast-flowing rivers have created legends which have been passed down verbally from generation to generation and which come to life again when you actually walk along the pathways where they were created. In the Semois valley, wisps of mist dance around you, evoking the fairies flying around the village of Les Hayons, near Bouillon. In the Lesse valley, paths lead to a natural paradise that is jealously guarded by the Nutons. In the huge Ardennes Forest, you can hear the echo of the hooves of Bayard the horse as he carries away the four sons of Aymon fleeing Charlemagne, in a timeless, endless fantasy ride. The Legends Trail follows the gentle curves of the hillsides and rivers of this enchanting landscape which comes to life and tells its tales as you move through it.

At the heart of Seloignes wood, choose a peaceful hike through the countryside along the river Oise. Seloignes wood is an immense humpback that separates the Meuse and Oise basins. The Oise extends over around 15 km in Belgium. Its source is to the north of Scourmont abbey in the municipality of Chimay, then it turns west to the French border where it gives its name to the village of Macquenoise. It then descends south to cross the departments of Aisne, Oise and Seine-et-Oise and flows into the Seine at Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, not far from Paris.

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

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

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

You leave the Saint-Remy forest via the Rue des Sarts and make for a much more urban atmosphere in the Principality of Chimay, with its stunning castle, which is a miniature replica of the Fontainebleau. After a brief spell on the RAVeL network, you will be amazed by the Virelles pond, a magnificent natural setting. This nature reserve boasts a wide range of habitats, rich vegetation and various birds. You may be fortunate enough to encounter one of our white storks. You then pass through Bois Robert forest in the direction of Froidchapelle. Then, make your way towards the Cerfontaine aerodrome, but not without checking out the Hamaides forest. The alternate route bypasses Chimay from the west and via the RAVeL network. Beginners are advised to avoid crossing the Rue du Lac near the Virelles pond, which is quite busy. 

You join the Chevauchée route in the Pays des Lacs region starting from the French border in Brûly. After a few metres, you are immersed in the Ardennes forest, which is the true green lung of the Walloon region, and the heart of an ecosystem inhabited by various wild species and an incredible biodiversity. After this gentle forest stretch lasting around eight kilometres, you reach the refreshing village of Oignies-en-Thiérache, which is known for its slate quarries and pretty stone houses. Did you know that this town was the geographical centre of the European Union until its expansion in 2004? Once you pass through, you are immersed in the lush forest once more.  

Pleasant 6km walk, mainly in the Beauwelz wood. The name ‘Beauwelz’ comes from ‘Beau Vallon’ or ‘beau welz’ which means ‘lake’. In the 17th century, they said ‘Biauwez’. This is the name kept by our Walloon dialect. Many small streams snake through the wood. The high point of the route is: the ‘Surgineté’, where there used to be a luxury glassworks, two of whose most beautiful pieces were given to Charles Quint and the future king Philip II, when he travelled through in 1549. Once in the wood, it’s a real breath of fresh air with its pools and its magnificent alpine newts, etc. 

Upon leaving the Crayas bivouac area, you have the option of taking the southern route, which will lead you to Notre-Dame Abbey in Scourmont. This heavily forested route is characterised by the presence of a lot of water, in particular a number of streams you need to cross, the Eau Noire valley and the passage by the Ry Rome Dam. At Bois Madame, there is a sign for a connection from the Couvin train station in both directions, allowing hikers to join the route, pass through the historic centre, and then along the Eau Noire river into the forest. You will then reach Viroinval, and more specifically the isolated hamlet of Regniessart. One bivouac area is located on this section of the Great Crossing: the Bivouac du Martin Pêcheur.

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

Situated in the picturesque and charming village of Rièzes, this comfortable holiday home, converted into a luxurious rectory, offers you a peaceful and rejuvenating stay. The rooms in this gem steeped in history are bright and feature architecture using traditional materials that blend harmoniously with the surrounding countryside. A true haven of peace combining authenticity, tranquillity and old-world charm. Outside, you can relax in the evening in the magnificent garden, or in the sauna with views of the countryside. Nearby, you’ll find the elegant Principality of Chimay, Scourmont Abbey, and the vast natural landscapes of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse National Park.   

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

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

Located in the heart of verdant nature, a stone’s throw from Notre-Dame de Scourmont abbey, this charming rural holiday rental is set in a former farm. The owners of the Gîte des 4 Saisons offer a warm welcome to their home, which combines the authenticity of a former farm and the modern comforts of a pleasant getaway. The rooms are decorated in a very tasteful and elegant way. The living room is complemented by a recreation room with a billiard table for long games with family or friends. You can relax on the spacious terrace and enjoy the view of the woodlands. Several sign-posted walks are located nearby.  

Located in a peaceful hamlet in the villages of Bourlers and Forges, 500 metres from the production site of our famous Chimay Trappist beer, La Maffe de Scourmont holiday rental is found in the barn of a farmhouse from 1726, which is near the owners’ farm. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with both modern and antique furnishings sharing space. You can enjoy some peace and quiet by the pond or relax on a stroll along the edge of the forest. The farm offers guests the chance to milk cows, feed calves, or experience daily or seasonal agricultural work, if they wish.

This charming hotel and its comfortable rooms will delight you with their charm and uniqueness. Each room is decorated in a harmonious way, with a colour theme based on Chimay Trappist products. Auberge de Poteaupré is located in a quiet part of the small village of Bourlers, a stone’s throw from Scourmont Abbey, where Chimay’s Trappist products are produced. Are you looking for an unforgettable experience? Combine your getaway with a visit to the Chimay Experience and a tasting at Auberge de Poteaupré. Its specialities, which are made from local produce from the Chimay region, include escavèche, meatballs with cheese sauce, etc.

With a tablet, Chimay Experience, located near to Notre-Dame de Scourmont abbey, welcomes you to discover the secrets, history and treasures of Chimay trappist beer and cheese making. Permanent, interactive exhibition. You will find an animated model of the abbey, a virtual guestbook, an ingredients chest, etc. Taste a Chimay from the barrel at the end of the visit. New: “Chimay with your eyes closed”: discover Chimay artefacts in the dark. Try to recognise the artefacts that have been placed on four shelves using only your sense of touch. Place your hand on the object... if you do not recognise it, it will be explained!

Situated in the peaceful village of Seloignes, just a few kilometres from Chimay, this 18th-century clogmaker’s house offers a relaxing stay with a change of scenery guaranteed. Le Nogal owes its name to the remarkable walnut tree in the property’s garden. The owners of Le Nogal warmly welcome you to their charming, character-filled, stone-walled and timber-framed house, which has been completely renovated. The rooms are bright and well laid out, with three themed bedrooms inspired by their travels and time living abroad. Ideal for a family getaway and/or a trip with friends. There are some great walks and cycle rides nearby. Not to mention the magnificent Château des Princes de Chimay, Scourmont Abbey, Aquascope and the Eau d’Heure Lakes.

Nestling in the heart of nature at Momignies in the Chimay region, the La Demoiselle Ô Bois lodge promises a relaxing and cosy stay. Sandrine and Hugues will give you a warm welcome and provide you with all the tourist information you need. This spacious, light-filled residence built from local stone is a successful blend of old-world character and modern-day comfort. Outside, there are magnificent views of the forest from the vast, charming garden. Outdoor play areas with boules and an indoor pool table and darts. Everything you need for a successful stay with family and/or friends. There are numerous signposted walks and cycle rides nearby. Not to mention Chimay and its charming castle, or the verdant Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse National Park. 

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

Some natural places are steeped in legends that have been passed down through the ages. This is true of the lush Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse National Park with its 22,000 hectares of forests, rivers, limestone grasslands, meadows and lakes. A special feature is that 80% of Wallonia’s wild fauna and flora can be found here! Accompanied by Amande, an enthusiastic storyteller, you’ll discover the secrets of the wild plants you pass by without noticing and listen to the stories and legends they hold. In addition, along the walk you will pause to hear stories and legends about the cycles of nature and at certain natural sites. This poetic experience strengthens the connection between culture and nature, respecting the plant, animal and human world.  

During the summer of 1850, a small group of monks came to reside on the wild Scourmont plateau, near Chimay. A farm, a brewery and a dairy were set up around the monastery. This Cistercian abbey, erected in 1850, is above all renowned for its famous Trappist beer that is still brewed on site in the greatest secrecy. Open visit to outhouses, the monk’s cemetery, the gardens and the church. In our hyperconnected times, it’s also an excellent place to spend a calm and soothing moment.

Seventeen monks came from Flanders, from Westvleteren Abbey, where they already made a Trappist beer, to found a Cistercian abbey in the midst of a lost, marshy and inhospitable region. No problem! In 12 years, they built a monastery and a brewery producing a divine nectar: Chimay beer, known throughout the world.

How do you stay warm without central heating? How do you wash clothes without a washing machine? How do you light a home without electricity? How did we live in a time when there were no supermarkets, no televisions and no Internet? How did we dress and what was life in the countryside like? Etc. This is an opportunity for everyone, in particular children, to learn about the origin of things. A charming little shoe-making workshop is recreated down to the most minute detail: the tools, wood shavings and lantern.

Set like a starfish at the heart of the marshes, where the enemy was sure to get bogged down, Rocroi remains a fine example of a fortified town. Owing its existence to Francis I, who wanted to build a fortification here that was even more imposing than the stronghold in Givet, the city has escaped the vicissitudes of history. And the famous French victory at the Battle of Rocroi glorified the town, impregnable forever. Guided tours of the town and its ramparts are organised by the tourist office in summer.

With a tablet, Chimay Experience, located near to Notre-Dame de Scourmont abbey, welcomes you to discover the secrets, history and treasures of Chimay trappist beer and cheese making. Permanent, interactive exhibition. You will find an animated model of the abbey, a virtual guestbook, an ingredients chest, etc. Taste a Chimay from the barrel at the end of the visit. New: “Chimay with your eyes closed”: discover Chimay artefacts in the dark. Try to recognise the artefacts that have been placed on four shelves using only your sense of touch. Place your hand on the object... if you do not recognise it, it will be explained!

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

A journey to the heart of the secrets, the history and the treasures of the production of Chimay Trappist beers and cheeses. Over 150 years of tradition, authenticity and brewing know-how.

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

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

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

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

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

Located in the center of a small peaceful village, French cuisine with butter and cream farm, based on fresh produce. Escavèche.

Located in Tournes in the Ardennes, La Romerie pizzeria welcomes you to the church square. Come and discover a wide choice of wood-fired pizzas, to eat in or take away. You can ask for your favourite ingredients for an extra €1. All our pizzas can also be served with a green salad for an extra €2. As well as our tasty pizzas, our restaurant also offers a dish of the day, a set menu and a salad. Accompany your meal with the finest wines and soft drinks à la carte. All our wines are available to take away. Book your table at La Romerie bar, restaurant and pizzeria in Tournes to enjoy a convivial moment with family or friends.

Eating and drinking well should not just be a pastime for the elite. With this in mind, François Nicolas and his wife Angélique welcome you to La Malterie. You will discover traditional cuisine with a modern presentation, using fresh and local produce, with utmost respect for the seasons and different flavours. The shop sells artisanal and natural products from Chimay and its region. There are also catering services: tailor-made products created according to customers’ tastes and the market produce available.

A few steps from the heart of Chimay is a cosy restaurant for food lovers. The menu, composed of traditional classic and modern French dishes, boasts fresh products from local producers (market produce, game, etc). For the summer season, Vincent Gilbert offers a menu to be enjoyed in the garden with his 3-course summer menus as well as lunches during the week. Available for family parties, banquets, seminars, etc.

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

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

Situated in the picturesque and charming village of Rièzes, this comfortable holiday home, converted into a luxurious rectory, offers you a peaceful and rejuvenating stay. The rooms in this gem steeped in history are bright and feature architecture using traditional materials that blend harmoniously with the surrounding countryside. A true haven of peace combining authenticity, tranquillity and old-world charm. Outside, you can relax in the evening in the magnificent garden, or in the sauna with views of the countryside. Nearby, you’ll find the elegant Principality of Chimay, Scourmont Abbey, and the vast natural landscapes of the Entre-Sambre-et-Meuse National Park.   

Located in the peaceful little village of Rièzes, near Chimay, the Colibri gypsy caravan offers cosy, unusual accommodation for an unforgettable romantic break. Set in lush surroundings, this gypsy caravan creates a warm atmosphere with its wooden materials and sleek décor. This spacious mini-chalet has all the equipment you could want, except for the TV, which is deliberately left out for total disconnection. Private garden with furniture, barbecue, fire pit and large communal garden featuring a Zen area with sauna, hot tub and Nordic bath. Breakfasts, snacks and set menu/à la carte evening meals can be booked in advance. There are signposted walking and/or cycling routes nearby. Not to mention Chimay and its castle, Scourmont Abbey, the Eau d’Heure lakes and the Aquascope at Virelles.

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

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

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

Located in the heart of verdant nature, a stone’s throw from Notre-Dame de Scourmont abbey, this charming rural holiday rental is set in a former farm. The owners of the Gîte des 4 Saisons offer a warm welcome to their home, which combines the authenticity of a former farm and the modern comforts of a pleasant getaway. The rooms are decorated in a very tasteful and elegant way. The living room is complemented by a recreation room with a billiard table for long games with family or friends. You can relax on the spacious terrace and enjoy the view of the woodlands. Several sign-posted walks are located nearby.  

Located in a peaceful hamlet in the villages of Bourlers and Forges, 500 metres from the production site of our famous Chimay Trappist beer, La Maffe de Scourmont holiday rental is found in the barn of a farmhouse from 1726, which is near the owners’ farm. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, with both modern and antique furnishings sharing space. You can enjoy some peace and quiet by the pond or relax on a stroll along the edge of the forest. The farm offers guests the chance to milk cows, feed calves, or experience daily or seasonal agricultural work, if they wish.

This charming hotel and its comfortable rooms will delight you with their charm and uniqueness. Each room is decorated in a harmonious way, with a colour theme based on Chimay Trappist products. Auberge de Poteaupré is located in a quiet part of the small village of Bourlers, a stone’s throw from Scourmont Abbey, where Chimay’s Trappist products are produced. Are you looking for an unforgettable experience? Combine your getaway with a visit to the Chimay Experience and a tasting at Auberge de Poteaupré. Its specialities, which are made from local produce from the Chimay region, include escavèche, meatballs with cheese sauce, etc.