Discover La bulle des anges in Illoud, Haute-Marne, Champagne-Ardenne

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 !

This walk, along the Mouzon, will allow you to discover the limestone plateau and the richness of the flora and fauna. It is a protected natural site of European interest, which is called dry calcaerous grassland of the east coast. Among the dry grasslands of the Western Vosges, this is one of those with the most obvious southern aspect. Overlooking the Mouzon the Anger valley, you will discover there the limestone formation of the Natura 2000 network.

Throughout this walk, you will be able to admire various landscapes. You will be amazed by the diversity of its landsacpes and of its flora and fauna : rocky cliffs, rivers, woods and caves. The richness of the village of Rebeuville will be revealed to you in particular with the important presence of calvaries, which is explained by the existence of workshops in the 15th and 16th centuries, which undoubtedly benefited from rich and varied influences.

This walk is a perfect combination of the discovery of historical sites and of natural environments. Starting from the Fort of Bourlemont, an important 19th century defensive site, explore the former 11th century priory "Saint-Jacques au Mont", the ruins of which are still buried in the vegetation. Climb the slope to find them !

The Meuse Cycle Route / EuroVelo 19 is an international route over 1 000 kilometers long, that follows the Meuse and that links the Langres Plateau, where the river rises in Pouilly-en-Bassigny, to the North Sea. Throughout this route that allow them to take traffic-free voies vertes and small rural roads, the cyclists pass through parts of the Western Vosges territory, between Sartes and Maxey-sur-Meuse. While following the River Mouzon, Meuse affluent that they will see in the territory, they will discover various landscapes and heritage sites. Cycling through valleys and towns of the Western Vosges will allow cyclists to admire many treasures, such as the Roman portal of the church in Pompierre, the limestone cliffs in Circourt-sur-Mouzon or the Château de Bourlemont, perched at the top of the town of Frebécourt. Highlight : the visit of Neufchâteau, Remarkable Heritage Site and town labelled one of the 100 Most Beautiful Detours in France. In a territory marked by Joan of Arc, do not forget to visit the Saint Joan of Arc Baislica overlooking the Meuse valley and the town of Domremy-la-Pucelle, her birthplace.

The Meuse Cycle Route / EuroVelo 19 is an international route over 1 000 kilometers long, that follows the Meuse and that links the Langres Plateau, where the river rises in Pouilly-en-Bassigny, to the North Sea. Throughout this route that allow them to take traffic-free voies vertes and small rural roads, the cyclists pass through parts of the Western Vosges territory, between Sartes and Maxey-sur-Meuse. While following the River Mouzon, Meuse affluent that they will see in the territory, they will discover various landscapes and heritage sites. Cycling through valleys and towns of the Western Vosges will allow cyclists to admire many treasures, such as the Roman portal of the church in Pompierre, the limestone cliffs in Circourt-sur-Mouzon or the Château de Bourlemont, perched at the top of the town of Frebécourt. Highlight : the visit of Neufchâteau, Remarkable Heritage Site and town labelled one of the 100 Most Beautiful Detours in France. In a territory marked by Joan of Arc, do not forget to visit the Saint Joan of Arc Baislica overlooking the Meuse valley and the town of Domremy-la-Pucelle, her birthplace.

This walk is a reflection of the typical Western Vosges flora and fauna. Off the beaten track, you will be surprised by the legend of "la Grotte de l'enfer" (the caves of hell), a place full of history. Those who dare set foot in them will be forever changed by it!

Pleasant walk where urban and natural landscaps blend together perfectly. This itinerary will take you through Neufchâteau, town labelled "ville et métiers d'art" (Town of craftsmanship) thanks to its local know-how in the wood and furniture trades. In addition, the town is labelled "Site patrimonial remarquable" (Remarkable heritage site), the first one in the Vosges departement and "Plus Beaux Détours de France" (Most Beautiful Detours of France) in 2017.

This walk will take you in the small village of Rollainville, located deep in a narrow valley on the banks of the Frézelle river and labelled "Village fleuri" (towns and villages in bloom). Discover its architectural heritage : the Roman St. Remy church, the 17th century stone bridges and the calvaries. An exceptional richness not to be missed !

Rollainville is a town that has enormous appeal. From the limestone in most of its architecture to its dry calcaerous grassland, the most important in the Vosges. It is a charming town. This trail allows you to discover various landscapes and to come across a diverse fauna.

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.

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! 

Experience an original tour lasting 2 hrs. 30 mins aboard a vintage Citroën car. Take advantage of this activity to discover the must-see sites of Reims in an original way and visit a cellar to taste some excellent champagne! TAKE A TRIP INTO THE PAST ABOARD A VINTAGE 2CV, THE ICONIC FRENCH AUTOMOBILE. Accompanied by your driver-guide, set off for a 2-hr-30-min ride through the town and country. Sit back and take in the major historical sites of Reims. 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 of town on the winding country roads that lead into the heart of the Champagne wine region. Take advantage of a visit to a local cellar to taste some excellent champagne! Make the most of this original trip to discover the “City of Kings” and Champagne Country!  

Sartes is a village located in a peaceful valley, by the Mouzon river and on the Roman road from Lyon to Trier. You can visit its church dedicated to St Evence. It dates from the 19th century and contains a stone Pietà from the 17th century.

The St Martin’s Church in Pompierre was rebuilt in the 19th century, but the Romanesque portal dating from the first building in the 12th century has been preserved. It is the finest example of Romanesque sculpture in Lorraine. In a good state of preservation, it bears witness to the influence of Burgundian sculpture in the region at that time. The tympanum has the Adoration of the Magi in the centre and the Massacre of the Innocents in the upper part. The lintel depicts the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.

In the heart of the town of furniture and seating craftsmen, you will find the Saint-Vincent hall-fountain, built in 1551. The building owes its present form and condition to the restoration of 1760, where a part of the roof structure has been preserved. The water weas brought there thanks to a wooden pipe.

Near the church of Liffol-le-Grand, this war memorial was inaugurated on the 17th of April 1921. Commemorating the two major global conflicts of the 20th century, its erection was decided by the town in October 1919; in the press release published on the 25th of October, we can read in French that “this memorial will be very sober, but of a refined and delicate taste, and will be 4m70 (15 feet) high. The base will be made entirely of Brittany granite. The inscriptions will be engraved in granite and with gold leafs. The statue that topped the base will be in white marble of Carrara.” Built by the Les marbreries générales de Paris (Gourdon Dir.), given by “Liffol-le-Grand to its heroic children who died for France”, this monument made of Vosges granite and marble is topped by a statue symbolising France crowning its heroes. We can see engraved on this war memorial 77 names of men who perished during World War I and 13 men during World War II.

The small village of Jainvillotte, at the south of Neufchâteau, has a church worthy of interest. Dedicated to Saint Michael, the church was built in the 12th century with additions from the 13th century.

An exhibition about the history of the Notre Dame du Bois Le Comte chapel is currently held in the church. This chapel is located 2 km (1,3 miles) away from the church and 1 km (0,6 mile) away from the cemetery in a .. . To go there, follow the markings. For more information, go on the website "gacvie vosges".

Gallo-Roman villas, a sanctuary where water and sun cults were celebrated, and many other treasures from the Gallo-Roman era were hidden beneath the Liffolois subsoil... Excavations have brought them to light, along with a smoking room unique in the Roman world and a Flavian mosaic. These objects are displayed and showcased on two levels in this museum, which was once the site of the forester's house. The collections range from prehistory to the Gallo-Roman and medieval periods...

Along the banks of the Mouzon, you will discover beautiful cliffs pierced by caves and promontory rocks from the top of which the valley can be seen. Further on, a calcareous grassland contains a flora (ex: Orchids) and fauna (various butterflies) rare in Lorraine, which is why it is classified by the Conservatoire des sites Lorrains (an associative structure created to protect natural areas). A significant part of the 150 ha (370 ac) of forest has been classified as Natura 2000. The village church whose choir dates from the 10th century, 3 calvaries and no less than 11 bridges complete an already rich natural ensemble.

In the south of Neufchâteau, your eyes will be immediately drawn to the successive chalky cliffs. The valley of the Mouzon is made of numerous meanders whose smooth curves stand out from the rough rock outcrops. You can access the limestone plateau of Circourt-sur-Mouzon through a marked path along which you will discover an outstanding landscape and a protected natural site for European interest : the dry grassland of the Eastern coast. This site offers a large number of natural habitats : bare rock, green lawns, hedges and woods. You will discover extraordinary fauna and flora : common wall lizards, aspic vipers, green whip snakes among others, but also 13 different species of orchids (bee orchids, Early Spider-orchids, late spider-orchids etc.)

The chalky grassland of the Roche is one of the three remarkable natural sites of Villouxel. Situated between the wooded plateau of Midrevaux and the hillock of Mont-lès-Neufchâteau, the 1.5 hectares area is the smallest grassland of Neufchâteau's network but nevertheless gathers unique species. The village of Villouxel is laid on a gentle slope which has preserved its traditional architecture. You can cross the grassland from the top of the village of from the wash house situated at the foot of the Roche. During a walk on the grassland, discover different species of insects such as tetrixes, sharp-tailed grasshoppers, bugs and six different species of six-spot burnets. The site of the Roche is also the home of a remarkable flora with its grasses (fescue and meadow brome), its orchids (fly orchids and man orchids) and two nationally protected species : the French meadow-rue and the European Michaelmas Daisy.

Traditional, family-style French cuisine in an old mill in the countryside west of the Vosges.

Just a stone's throw from "La Mazarine" river, this restaurant offers traditional cuisine and wood-fired pizzas to eat in or take away, in a warm and friendly atmosphere.

Completely renovated for a more modern and warm atmosphere, this "workshop" bar welcomes you all day long, offering a warm and friendly brasserie experience, with burgers, salads and pastries on display!

Home-cooked cuisine, fresh, quality produce, à l'ardoise menus, for gourmet moments.

Traditional cuisine in a modern restaurant where you can end the evening on the dance floor on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Traditional cuisine with a taste for the land and the seasons, sharing and conviviality. An event, wedding, birthday, seminar... our 3 rooms and our garden will add a natural and original touch to your event.

This restaurant offers authentic, homemade cuisine and wood-fired pizzas, all in a warm atmosphere in the heart of the city of the Dukes of Lorraine.

Traditional cuisine, in the heart of the former Coussey village washhouse converted into a restaurant, in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Catered takeaway menus. The restaurant offers additional services: tobacco and "Française des Jeux" games, Nickel point, local tax payment, fines, canteen.

With a view of the Basilica of Sainte-Jeanne d'Arc and unspoilt countryside, Le Bois Chenu offers a menu featuring seasonal produce and local producers.

This semi-gastronomic restaurant welcomes you in a warm and friendly atmosphere, where the chef proposes seasonal cuisine and home-made dishes. Enough to tantalize your taste buds! Our catering service will help you organize your various events (weddings, christenings, birthdays...) with services adapted to buffet, cocktail or sit-down meals. After your meal, take full advantage of the western Vosges region to discover Joan of Arc's birthplace (1 km), the Gallo-Roman site of Grand (20 km) or go for a stroll!

This reception area is free. Take the time to discover Pompierre, it is a typical linear settlement of Lorraine, located on the layout of a Roman road. It is nestled in a valley, in the middle of meadows and woods, at the edge of the Mouzon River. You will discover the remarkable 12th-century Romanesque portal of the church, the Chapel of Notre Dame du Pilier de Saragosse and the 18th and 19th century castle.

Free reception area located on the bank of the river Meuse in the village of Bazoilles. The Meuse River flows in the north of the village: the Meuse disappears underground during the dry period to reappear in the vicinity of Neufchâteau.

Françoise and Bernard welcome you to a spacious gîte ideal for families, located in the pretty village of Circourt-sur-Mouzon. During your stay, you'll enjoy all the comforts of the gîte (fully-equipped kitchen, wood-burning fireplace, wifi, 1 bedroom with a double bed and the second with 3 single beds). You can also discover the peace and quiet of the Vosges countryside, the cliffs and limestone lawns of Circourt, Neufchâteau, the 1st Heritage Site of the Vosges (8 km), the birthplace of Joan of Arc (19 km), or go hiking on the EuroVelo 19 route - La Meuse à Vélo... The hardest thing is to choose!

Free parking area in Tilleux, a small village surrounded by greenery and embellished by its St Epvre church whose front foundations lie directly on the rock. Its Oculus, through which the parishioners could see the Blessed Sacrament when they went to the fields, is another particularity. Do not forget to visit the fountain, where animals used to drink, and the well of St. Epvre, which never dried up and where many people used to get water.

The free reception area located at the foot of the village church offers you peace and discovery. To discover: church of Certilleux, its wash-house and the viewpoint from the St-Martin chapel. Don't forget to ask the villagers to tell you the story of the priest of Certilleux and his miraculous painting.

New, contemporary gîte in a former communal wine press, once used by local residents to press grapes. The gîte is located on the banks of a river and close to hiking trails.

Free reception and service area located on the banks of the Mouzon River. Rebeuville stands out thanks to its various treasures: the church of St Martin, dating from the 19th century and built at the top of the village, and seven calvaries, four of which are listed as Historical Monuments. As for nature, the site of the "Grottes de l'Enfer" (Caves of Hell) is located in the middle of the Bois de l'Enfer (Hell Wood). This protected natural area is part of the Natura 2000 site of the Mouzon and Anger valleys, selected by the European Union for their exceptional biological interest.

Single-storey rooms with mezzanine in a new, modern, comfortable hotel-motel close to Neufchâteau town center. It is also a seminar and banqueting venue for professionals.

This quiet, well-equipped and secure campsite welcomes you in a green and friendly setting near the historic center of Neufchâteau. With the "Accueil Vélo" label and located on the "EuroVelo 19 - La Meuse à Vélo" itinerary, it is well suited to welcoming cyclotourists, with tipi tents available for hire, and a bicycle pump. Services: bread and pastry delivery, coffee and tea, ice cream, reception store, free access to the swimming pool, restaurants and stores nearby. And make the most of your stay to discover one of France's 100 Most Beautiful Detours and the Vosges' 1st Heritage Site, which is packed with artistic and architectural treasures such as the churches of Saint-Nicolas and Saint-Christophe, the Renaissance staircase of the Hôtel de Houdreville and the former Le Scala theater.

A gite with a soul for culture and nature lovers who will appreciate the high-class comfort. Organic breakfast. Perfect to visit the sites of Grand and Domremy-la-Pucelle, to discover magical places, and to enjoy nature and peace.