Sedan, Ardennes, Champagne-Ardenne

From the valley of the Meuse to Préardennaises peaks, this route is a concentrate of the Ardennes. Starting from Sedan, you will pass by and enjoy Charleville-Mezieres and its surroundings, then down to the Crets sPréardennaises (vast territory with more than 90 municipalities ...) and go up to Sedan. You can follow pretty country lanes and some secondary roads which will allow you to make stops to enjoy the architectural heritage of towns and villages or simply the natural surroundings: castle, old coaching inn of the 17th century, former blast furnace or charming flowered village, point of view ...

Allow two days for this route, used for centuries to travel between Sedan castle and Bouillon castle in Belgium. A walk where water, the forest and nature are omnipresent. Although neighbours, these two regions belong to very separate lands. One nestles in a fold of the Ardennes massif, while the other stretches along the banks of the Meuse river, near the first slope of the Parisian basin. The two towns have been sisters for a thousand years, linked by history since the signing of the Treaty of Verdun in 843 dividing up the Carolingian Empire. Along this circuit you can explore Europe’s largest feudal castle in Sedan, experience Godfrey’s first crusade at the castle and archeoscope in Bouillon and take part in medieval festivals… all in an outstanding forest setting. Breathe!

Given its position at the crossroads of the Germanic and Latin parts of Europe, the Ardennes region is strewn with evidence of its tumultuous and violent past. The powerful fortresses which tower over the landscape from high rocky outcrops have given rise to myths and legends. Their thick walls bear witness to a thousand years of sieges, wars and pillage. Bouillon, Herbeumont, Sedan and Montcornet still echo to the clash of swords and the songs of minstrels. In the light-filled valley of the Meuse, wealthy cities developed, but their riches had to be defended. The Fortifications Trail takes you along these mediaeval commercial roads, where the fate of Europe was decided on countless occasions.

This 83 km green way runs between Givet and Charleville-Mézières along the former towpath by the Meuse. Its asphalt coating allows access to any type of bicycle and roller skating enthusiast. It crosses through the grandiose landscape of the Ardennes massif, from north to south, following the meanders of the river.

Through valleys and woods, the Ennemane valley is ideal for walks. This tarred itinerary follows renovated country roads, and alternates between scenic views and woods.

Nice walk in the village of Corbion on the heights, some beautiful landscapes and quiet places. The barbecue area of L'Ecaillère will also allow you to have a barbecue if you wish with its fully equipped area.

Venture along the ridge path to discover the magnificent view of the "Chaire à Prêcher". Discover its legend from the Middle Ages, thanks to the panel of the Corbion tourist office. Enjoy the refreshing wooded nature along the Moulin stream. 

A historical walk, where the memory of the poet Paul Verlaine, who lived in the Maison des Couleuvres (or Maison Verlaine) in 1885, hangs in the air. Fancy a trip to France? Just cross the ruisseau de la Goffe. You can listen to it all the way to the legendary Roche Aux Fées. There is a magnificent picnic area with a barbecue for a short break along the stream. Then head back up to the village of Corbion.

A magnificent walk that will allow you to discover the pretty, typical village of Corbion, breathtaking views and the tranquillity of the banks of the Semois. The past will be omnipresent during this walk. The opportunity to discover the Giant's Tomb from another angle.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Traditional Moroccan cooking in a typically Moroccan setting.

Discover gourmet Turkish cooking in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

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

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

Located in one of the oldest streets full of history, in the heart of the old town, near the Castle. The Chef "Catherine BOUTON" will offer you a varied choice of culinary compositions elaborated over her 20 years of experience. Throughout the year, you will be offered different choices according to the seasons and the market...

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

Homestays in town.A library landing and a terrace are at your disposal for more space and comfort. The accommodation is in town and everything is within walking distance; city ​​center, castle, any type of commerce. Parking in the street is possible and free but can be difficult at certain times of the day. However, there is a supermarket parking at 150m. Not suitable for people with reduced mobility (stairs). No pets allowed. Baby equipment available. Breakfast on request. The first bedroom is equipped with a double bed and a sofa that can accommodate children.The second, for two, is available only on request if you are with your family.The floor can accommodate 6 people if necessary. 4 adults and 2 children. The bathroom remains common.I only rent this room for the same group so that you do not have to share with foreigners the bathroom. You will have access to the floor of my apartment, you will find privacy, tranquility and independence: the floor is reserved for you. I put at your disposal for your comfort and at no extra charge a kettle, a coffee maker, tea, coffee, crackers, chocolate powder. There is also a refrigerator and a microwave. For bread and croissants you have a one-minute bakery. Coffee, tobacco, restaurant, supermarket nearby. I am always happy to welcome travelers to my home. I make sure to be available but also respectful of your privacy. The apartment is on two floors that will allow you to come and go freely and independently. However, if you need to knock on the door of my stay I will be happy to provide you with any information you may need.

The Saint Michel, facing the Princes' Palace and close to the Castle, has 43 spacious, comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms. The hotel is in a fine old residence built of local stone in the 17th century, at the same time as the Princes' Palace. Its central location is ideal for visiting the old city. It can also be a convenient starting point for tours of the secret, mysterious features of the Ardennes.

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

"To you the castle life, in the heart of a historic site" At the heart of history, and in the largest castle of Europe, come live an atypical escape in the Residence of the Princes of Sedan.Hôtel and restaurants Château Fort Sedan, welcomes you in a remarkable heritage, established since 6 centuries, which expresses the power of medieval architecture.Our rooms have a view on the imposing courtyard of the Castle and our suites have a dominant position on the city. Our team accompanies you, with conviviality, for a serene and peaceful stay Chef OLIVOT sign, for our two restaurants, seasonal cuisine and fresh products. Stay at the castle will become your story in history and for an unforgettable memory. Open all year.Supp. animals: 15 euros.

Looking for a charming Bed and Breakfast combining the charm of the countryside with the conveniences of a city center? You like the reception in bed and breakfast? This establishment is then the ideal place to meet your expectations. We speak French, English and German. With a fully enclosed garden, A Weekend in the Ardennes targets a clientele who wants to enjoy the countryside in the city center. Charlotte and Michel welcome you to their century-old mansion, which they have completely restored keeping all its authenticity. A whole floor has been devoted to the creation of 3 spacious rooms, entirely renovated and carefully decorated, whose names undeniably recall the tales and legends of the region: - the room of Houziers: big room of 19m2 equipped with 2 beds of 90cm joined or separated according to the needs, - the room of Couzziettis: room of 17m2 equipped with a bed of 160cm whose main characteristic is to be able to communicate directly with the room of Karnabos, - the room of Karnabos: room of 12m2 with 2 beds of 90cm, ideal for children. The days begin of course smoothly around a delicious breakfast served in our dining room or in the garden in summer. Local products (homemade jams, honey ...) are honored. For your rest, a library lounge is also reserved for you with games, books, magazines and documentation (green tourism, sports tourism, cultural tourism). Baby equipment on request, Wifi, Sheets and towels included. Deposit required for keys with return at end of stay.