Trompette Guy: Discovering Chatillon-sous-les-cotes

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.

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.

The 1870 battlefields are found on the "back" of the plateau, which opens up to the west towards the Côtes de Meuse hills. Along the paths you will come across many monuments erected in memory of the soldiers and a variety of educational and fun activities.

Nestling at the bottom of the Gorzia valley, Gorze is a natural attraction for walkers. The many wooded paths climb quickly to the heights, where breathtaking panoramas open up towards the Moselle valley and the surrounding hills.

Through fields and forest, discover the small heritage of Lommerange. Stop at the Saint-Léger church and the Chapelle Sainte-Apolline. Take a break in front of the Monument of the shot men of the Conroy. Erected by the Souvenir Français, in memory of the ten Frenchmen shot by the Germans at the entrance to the Conroy valley in August 1914. Go in search of the washhouse known as the Fontaine du Conroy and the Source des anges.

Through fields and forest, discover the small heritage of Lommerange. Stop at the Saint-Léger church and the Chapelle Sainte-Apolline. Take a break in front of the Monument of the shot men of the Conroy. Erected by the Souvenir Français, in memory of the ten Frenchmen shot by the Germans at the entrance to the Conroy valley in August 1914. Go in search of the washhouse known as the Fontaine du Conroy and the Source des anges.

"Before starting your hike, take a look at the monument of the shot of the Conroy. In August 1914, ten Frenchmen were shot by the Germans at the entrance of the Conroy valley. In 1928, a monument was erected by the Souvenir Français. On the way, discover an old washhouse at the source of the Fensch. Renovated, it now presents pages of history of the town. Located in the heart of the old village, the House of Information exhibits the remains of the Merovingian necropolis, discovered in 1990 Beware, some passages in the state forest of Moyeuvre present some difficulties (fallen trees). This trail is partially equipped for people with reduced mobility."

On the left bank of the Moselle, Ancy-sur-Moselle and Novéant-sur-Moselle are excellent starting points for hikes. The village of Dornot, perched on the heights, is characteristic of the wine-making villages on these slopes, with its narrow, twisting streets offering beautiful views over the Moselle valley.

This route, which is accessible to all, is suitable for walking and hiking. It allows you to discover the small local heritage such as the old border markers, the Voie de Soixante (a narrow railway line which transported ammunition and supplies to the forts of the Maginot Line) and the Chapelle de Bassompierre with its characteristic choir of the Lorraine religious buildings of the early 12th century. You can also visit the violin-making workshops in the centre of the village of Bassompierre.

This route, which is accessible to all, is suitable for walking and hiking. It allows you to discover the small local heritage such as the old border markers, the Voie de Soixante (a narrow railway line which transported ammunition and supplies to the forts of the Maginot Line) and the Chapelle de Bassompierre with its characteristic choir of the Lorraine religious buildings of the early 12th century. You can also visit the violin-making workshops in the centre of the village of Bassompierre.

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.

At the heart of a garden, a quaint cottage opens its doors: "Au Balcon du Bonheur": a carefully decorated and furnished double room (with additional sleeping mezzanine) offers sweeping views over this natural setting. A setting that combines massive charm, unusual unearthed objects, atypical rest corners, beautiful ponds and a view of the castle Yvois... The hospitality of the owner will guarantee you a moment of happiness in this scenery and atmosphere. The location means you can enjoy the local heritage and tourist sites in France, Belgium and Luxembourg.

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.

Magnificent views - to the south, a juxtaposition of spruce stands, shrubbery and deciduous vegetation; to the north, stands of black pine. To the west, in the distance, the hillock of Fort Souville.

INFORMATION: In order to improve the comfort of your visit, Fort Vaux is closed for renovation. In the meantime, the Verdun Memorial and Fort Douaumont will remain open every day. The fort was one of series of fortifications constructed after the Franco-Prussian war by the French military engineer, Raymond Séré de Rivière. It fell after 7 days of intense bombardment on all sides by the German artillery, leaving the besieged garrison without food, supplies and ammunition. Eventually taken by German troops in June 1916, French courage and remarkable resistance were honoured by the German command on the 7th June 1916. Its name is a byword for French heroism during the 1916 battle, evoking the valour of Commandant Raynal and his last carrier pigeon. Sites to visit include the Commander’s post, the medical centre, telecommunications post, a pigeon loft and the Bourges casemate (bunker) holding two 75mm guns.

A major "first generation" fort built after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-71, Souville only received concrete protection for its powder magazine, with the rest of the structure being masonry covered with earth, making it terribly vulnerable to large German shells. Although Souville never received Bourges Casemates for flanking fire, it was reinforced in 1890 with the installation of the prototype Bussières retractable turret, armed with two long 155 mm cannons. Unfortunately, the explosion of one of them in April 1916 meant that the turret served only as an observation and command post for the rest of the battle. While possession of the fort was crucial for the French, its capture would also allow the forces of the Crown Prince to take advantage of a final opportunity to advance unopposed into the city. The center of Verdun. On the morning of July 11, the 3rd Company of the 7th Infantry Regiment, commanded by Second Lieutenant Dupuy, entered the fort and found the survivors of the garrison practically incapacitated. The arrival of fresh troops revived the spirits of those who had not been wounded, and the defenses were put back in order. On the slope outside the fort, other elements of the 7th Infantry Regiment gave way under the fierce assault of the Germans, but fortunately, the enemy did not make significant progress before being stopped by the machine guns of the 7th, firing from the roof of the fort. The next day, Souville remained under harassing fire from German artillery, but the crisis had passed and the defenders of Verdun were able to catch their breath. Accessible by gravel paths, the fortified site of Souville today allows visitors to examine remnants such as the Batterie de l'Hôpital, the Pamart Casemates, and the roof of the fort, not to mention the unique Bussières turret. More than just a fort, Souville corresponds to a true fortified massif comprising several elements: Fort: An organic garrison (2 infantry companies and 2 artillery sections) Shelter-cave for 300 men A retractable turret for two 155 mm cannons A terraced fortress battery of 155 mm, located 100 meters from the retractable turret Communication network via trenches. Practical Information: Pedestrian access to the fort Entry into the fort is prohibited

Vaux-devant-Damloup is a unique destroyed village since, being at the edge of the "red zone," it has managed to gradually rebuild a new small village close to the old destroyed village, which shares the same characteristics as its eight unfortunate companions. Belonging to the Chapter of Verdun before the Revolution, it has always been a prosperous village throughout its history. The presence of Fort Vaux nearby has always somewhat disrupted the village's history. Indeed, from its construction between 1881 and 1884, the village was heavily involved in accommodating the numerous workers rotating through; similarly during the significant reinforcement works undertaken on the Fort from 1888 to 1912. In 1915, the decision by the general staff to partially disarm all the forts transferred the defensive effort particularly to the villages. Thus, Vaux, located to the north of its Fort and in contact with the Woëvre plain, naturally became an important point in the defense system of the Verdun entrenched camp. During the great German offensive launched at the end of February 1916, it became one of the major German objectives after the capture of Douaumont, which fell on March 2, and before the capture of Fort Vaux. After fierce fighting within its walls, the village fell into German hands on March 31, 1916. The French bombardments of April then followed the German bombardments of March, only intensifying the complete annihilation of the village. After the village fell, the 50th German division hastened to seize Fort Vaux, which heroically resisted from June 2 to 7, 1916, under the command of Commander Raynal. This tragic episode became a forever famous feat of arms, as the garrison, running out of drinking water and fighting in the fort's galleries for days, eventually surrendered to the Germans, who, admiring the bravery of the surviving soldiers, decided to grant them military honors upon their exit from the Fort. In 1918, the village of Vaux-devant-Damloup found itself within the limits of the infamous "red zone," prohibiting any reconstruction. In 1919, it was also listed among the destroyed villages and, during the interwar period, its war memorial and the Saint Philippe and Saint Jacques shelter chapel were built, similar to the other eight destroyed villages. However, its location at the edge of the zone and the presence of the Eastern Railway Company's railway, which obtained permission to house its ten service agents on the site of Vaux-devant-Damloup, allowed the village to gradually regain new life over the years, starting from the interwar period. It now has a very active life oriented towards the future, especially the Internet, while not denying the tragic past of the old destroyed village, still present at its doorstep and in the memory of its 70 inhabitants. To see: The Saint Philippe and Saint Jacques shelter chapel; The war memorial in honor of the soldiers who died in Vaux (it bears the inscription: "They shall not pass"); Fort Vaux; The Vaux pond; The war memorial of the 1st Battalion of Foot Chasseurs near the pond; The memorial stone for the aviator Dussumier-Latour, shot down on June 2, 1916, on the pond's dam.

Located in the heart of the forest, the Verdun picnic area offers a peaceful, leafy setting, perfectly integrated into the rich, poignant history of the region. With its six wooden tables, it is nestled in a green setting, just a few steps from the legendary Fort de Souville. As you arrive at the site, a winding path lined with century-old trees leads you to this relaxation area. The murmur of leaves and birdsong accompany visitors, creating an atmosphere of serenity and contemplation. The tables are harmoniously arranged, giving everyone an intimate space to enjoy each other's company. The history of the Verdun battlefield can be felt in every corner. The trees, silent witnesses to past events, seem to watch over visitors. The ground, still scarred by shell marks, is a reminder of the intensity of the fighting that took place here. The majestic and imposing Fort de Souville stands nearby, symbolizing the resistance and tenacity of the soldiers who defended this land. This picnic area is more than just a place to rest; it's a space where nature and history meet, offering visitors a rejuvenating and contemplative break.

Discover a historic monument marking the extreme advance and defeat of German troops during the Battle of Verdun. This site commemorates the crucial moments of 1916: the occupation of Fort Douaumont on February 25 and Fort de Vaux on June 7, followed by the German attempt to break through the French defensive curtain and reach Verdun. On July 12, German forces launched an attack on Fort Souville, the last rampart of the fortified line surrounding the town, but were repulsed by a valiant French garrison. Inaugurated on October 1, 1922, this monument pays tribute to the 130th Infantry Division. Created by animal sculptor René Paris (1881-1970), a member of this unit, the monument evokes the heroic resistance to the enemy attacks of June 23, 1916. It symbolizes the defeat of the German troops and honors the courage of the French soldiers. Come and explore this place steeped in history and emotion, a poignant testimony to the bravery and sacrifice of the defenders of Verdun.

Small pond near the destroyed village of Vaux in front of Damloup, at the confluence of the ravines of the False Coast, Bazil and Fountains.Il is the heart of the fighting in March and April 1916. nearby, a monument in memory at the aviator Guy Dussumier-Latour, shot on June 2, 1916

Contrary to the way the mobilisation plans were drawn up, many soldiers in the reserve rubbed shoulders with their comrades in the regular units. There was one regiment, the 44 th Territorial Infantry Regiment, which welcomed into its ranks the Member of Parliament for the Meuse, a certain André Maginot. Joining up as a volunteer in 1914, he quickly rose to the rank of sergeant, and led patrols into enemy territory. His boldness almost cost him his life, on 8 November 1914, near the Bois des Hayes. Seriously wounded, he was saved with difficulty by his men, but had to undergo medical treatment for many long months. After the Armistice, he once more took up his role of parliamentarian, as Minister for Pensions. Thus he presided over the ceremony on 10 November 1920 within the tunnels of the Underground Citadel of Verdun, when the Unknown Soldier was chosen. Falling ill with typhoid fever, he passed away in 1932, at the very time when he was busy preparing the ground for the new line of fortifications, intended to defend the North-East of the country – and which would be named after him. Three years after his death, President of the Republic Albert Lebrun inaugurated the monument by Gaston Broquet, which is let into the massif de Souville. Against the background of a warrior’s shield, the statuary group represents the scene on 8 November 1914, with two of his brave men carrying the wounded Maginot to safety on a Lebel rifle.

Located directly on the D964 in Haudainville (55100), this picnic area at approximately 49.1373°N, 5.4152°E offers an open setting with three tables, perfectly positioned to take full advantage of the view over the Meuse Valley. Recently refurbished and made safer, the area known as Les Veilleurs de la Paix has been fitted with new furniture and modern amenities to ensure comfort and safety, particularly along a road used by nearly 4,500 vehicles per day. Accessible all year round, parking on site is free, although user reviews remain scarce to date.

Located in the heart of the battlefield, the museum is designed to explain the Battle of Verdun and pass its history on to future generations. The Visitors Trail in the new museum focuses on those who fought in Verdun, whether French or German. 2,000 items and collections, a multitude of photos (many of them never before displayed), eyewitness accounts from French and German soldiers and outstanding audiovisual systems combine to recreate something of the battle experience of men who came from all over the world to fight here.

Fly fishing estate. A haven of peace and quiet for anglers and those who enjoy good food in simple, convivial surroundings. Shady alfresco dining on the riverbank. The site can be booked for seminars. Billiard room, Irish pub. Specialities: mushrooms, fish. Provençal cuisine in summer. Booking required 24 hrs in advance. Dinner available for groups of 10+.

Restaurant in "Les Orchidées", a hotel on the road to the Verdun battlefield, 3 km from the town centre and 18 km from Etain.

The restaurant at the Étoile Loisirs play complex offers you an open, flexible space in a warm and welcoming setting. Sit back and enjoy traditional, seasonal cuisine specially adapted to families, groups and business meals. Open Wednesday to Sunday lunchtime. L'Étoile Loisirs has a 10-lane bowling alley, a laser game and lots of games!

10-lane bowling alley, bar, restaurant, laser skirmish, children's play area, billiards, traditional palets, driving simulators and a meeting room. In all, 2,000 sq. metres of multi-activity space. We can organise birthday parties, seminars and theme evenings.

A restaurant and grillroom 4 km from the town centre, in the Actipole shopping mall on the road to Nancy and Metz. Close to the quarry in Haudainville (summer spectacular "From Flames... to Light"). Enjoy the convivial decor and the French cuisine with the accent on local and traditional produce. All-you-can-eat buffet.

Bread, cakes, snacks, dish of the day and tearoom. In the Actipole shopping centre on the Nancy and Metz road. Hotel nearby.

Fast food. Located in the Actipole shopping mall on the road to the quarry at Haudainville (summer spectacular, "From Flames… to Light"), the A4 motorway, and the Nancy and Metz road.

Located 4 km from the town centre on the Nancy / Metz road (A4 motorway) and the quarry in Haudainville (summer spectacular "From Flames... to Light").

Traditional restaurant and pizzeria. Located 3 km from the town centre in the Actipole shopping mall, 1 km from the quarry at Haudainville (summer spectacular, "From Flames… to Light"), on the Nancy and Metz road (A4 motorway).

Located 3 km from the town centre in Le Dragon shopping mall on the Nancy and Metz road and 1 km from the quarry in Haudainville which provides the backdrop for the show, "From Flames… to Light".

Gîte in an old farmhouse, combining comfort and modernity, in the heart of the Meuse countryside, for a 'nature' holiday.

Located at the foot of the Meuse Hills between mirabelle plum orchards and the Woëvre Plain, the campsite at Les Etangs de Mandre offers its guests a breath of fresh air. People come here to camp, fish or have a picnic with their family beside the lake. Ideal for caravans and tents. On this well-equipped site, amenities include wash blocks (showers and WC), running water and electricity. Open all year for motorhomes. 2.8 hectare lake.

Verdun battlefield 10 km - Metz 50 km. Old house with character, situated amongst orchards, close to the Côtes de Meuse, at the entry to the Lorraine regional nature reserve. Close to the sports and recreation parks of Colvert and of the lake of Madine. 3 spacious rooms each with private facilities welcome you into their individual ambiences: music bedroom (twin beds), garden bedroom (1 double + 1 single bed), culture bedroom (1 double bed) with sofa bed (extra pers.). Lounge with fireplace and bookshelf. Dining room with view over the wooded floral park. Garden furniture available to guests. Table d’hôte (booking required).

Verdun and Battlefields 12km - Madine Lake 25km - Metz 50km. 130m² gite. Detached house in grounds with flowers and trees, surrounded by orchards and Mirabelle plum trees. On ground floor: 1 bdrm. (1 double bed) with bathroom and separate WC séparé. Fully-equipped, fitted kitchen with exposed beams and old bread oven. First floor: 1 bdrm. (1 double bed and 2 single beds) with retro-style bathroom and separate WC. Sitting room with settee, bureau and TV. Electric + wood-fired heating. South-facing terrace with garden furniture and view over grounds with children’s play equipment. The beds are made up for your arrival. On request: end-stay-cleaning: €50. Seasonal fruit available here. Marked nature trails nearby. Expenses not included.

Verdun and Battlefields 12km. Colvert Leisure centre at Bonzée 5km. Lorraine house in a quiet street at the end of the village, at the foot of the Côtes de Meuse hills, in the Lorraine Regional Natural Park. 140m² gite. On the ground floor, the house has a well-equipped kitchen with a typically rustic-style dining room, and a lounge opening onto the terrace and an enclosed garden. Parking and garage in front, lean-to with bread oven and barbecue behind. On first floor: 3 bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms (bath or shower) and separate WCs. 1 bedroom (2 single beds), 2 bdrms. (1 double bed each). Beds made up on arrival.

Etain 11km - Verdun 15km - Battlefields 12km - Metz 45km - near Luxembourg. One-storey gite on ground floor, next to the garage, located in a peaceful, green little village on the edge of the Côtes de Meuse area and the Woëvre plain, where you can gather mushrooms in the nearby forest. 2 bedrooms (1 double bed-2 single beds), including one with a lounge area (TV point). Kitchen: fridge-freezer, microwave, cooker hood. Bathroom, WC, washing machine. Oil-fired central heating. Garage, terrace, barbecue, garden furniture, partially-enclosed garden. Heating not included. Pets on request.

Attractive modern outbuilding close to the sites of Verdun, in a quiet location, with swimming pool access at an additional cost in summer (€20/day). It features a bedroom, sofa bed, kitchenette, terrace, pétanque court and all the comforts you need for a pleasant stay.

Located on the Saint-Nicolas area of the A4 freeway.

Very close to Verdun and the Remembrance sites, 45 mins from the Benelux countries and 45mins form Metz, at the foot of the Côtes de Meuse hills, 2 unusual guest rooms in a dome-house made entirely of wood, bioclimatic and ecological. Entirely built by the owner, it is made of non-treated wood from sustainable forests and insulated with cork. It’s light and warm – come and get away from it all with us and enjoy a completely new concept, unique in the region! Our bedrooms are ideally situated on the first floor. Each has a double bed and an en-suite bathroom (shower, washbasin, wc). On request: child’s bedroom on the ground floor, free travel cot. The very comfortable mattresses are made of bamboo fibre and natural silk, the quilts and pillows are made of cotton and aloe vera, with greenfirst treatment, and the bedclothes are made of organic cotton. Breakfasts are also “natural”: home-made jams, home-made pastries, home-made yogurts and organic apple juice that we produce. Parking available on the property.

Metz 50km - Nancy 80km - Madine 25km - Verdun 15km - 2km from motorway slip road. 200m² interior courtyard with trees, barbecue and garden furniture. Heating and cleaning included. Electricity extra. Grd floor: large kitchen (30m²) with washing machine, dishwasher, microwave, fridge-freezer, living room (35m²) with TV, stereo, fireplace.,WC. First floor: 2 bedrooms with 1 double bed and 1 bedroom with 2 single beds. 1 room with put-you-up bed. Bathroom with WC. Terrace (40m²), awning, garage for 2 vehicles. Wood-fired and electric heating. linen hire possible.