FRENCH

ECOTOURISM City break IN THE STEPS Enjoy OF ARTHUR RIMBAUD the total Bright idea nature TAKE PART IN CHALLENGES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY experience

Heritage sites OUR SELECTION OF OUTSTANDING TOURS

Gastronomy A TOP CHEF’S COOKING SECRETS CONTENTS

ESCAPISM FAMILY & AUTHENTICITY & WELLNESS

SPOTLIGHT ON ECOTOURISM OPEN-AIR ACTIVITIES The Ardennes, the flagship destination · 10 45 Enjoy experiences with the family for sustainable tourism · Become an animal keeper Freedom trails · 12 · Try the spills and thrills challenge Learning while you walk · 14 · An encounter with bees They’ve cut the traces · 17 · Enter a fairy-tale world · Learn to fish HAVEN OF PEACE Take the time to just relax 18 RECHARGE YOUR BATTERIES 49 1001 ways to take the plunge IN THE LAND OF LEGENDS Meet Arduin the druid 20 IN THE REALM OF FANTASY 51 “La Cassine en Ardenne”: a breeding ground of culture

HERITAGE MAGIC & SHARING & LOCAL CULTURE

CITY BREAK ! CULTURAL HIGHLIGHT Three good reasons to overnight 24 in Charleville-Mézières THE RIMBAUD – VERLAINE TOUR In the steps of the poets 27 ADVENTURE Plunge into history 28 54 World Puppet in Sedan’s mighty castle Theatres Festival. ten outstanding days FINE ARCHITECTURE 32 From to for bikers · MUSIC AND FESTIVITIES Take the family around Thiérache in a motor home · 56 The “Cabaret Vert”, popular fervour A romantic walking tour to Mouzon · GASTRONOMY A STROLL WITH A DIFFERENCE 58 The secrets of a top chef, Gratien Leroy At the pace of your steed 35

AN INTRODUCTION ACCOMODATION TO ANCIENT CRAFTS 61 Something to suit the most demanding The age-old craft of felt-making 37

REMEMBRANCE TOURISM The key sites of the three wars · 38 PRACTICAL INFORMATION I tested the War and Peace Museum for you · 41 62 Useful addresses

2 A MAGAZINE DESIGNED AND PRODUCED BY THE ARDENNES TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AGENCY • MANAGING EDITOR : DAVID LAMARE • PUBLISHING MANAGER : CÉCILE HUREAUX • editor : RÉMY TALARICO / TALACOM • EDITORIAL COMMITTEE : NATHALIE DIOT, WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF CARL HOCQUART • ORIGINAL DESIGN AND ART DIRECTOR : JORDAN DEBRAY / ESSENCE VISUELLE • PHOTOGRAPHY : David Truillard, WITH THE PARTICIPATION OF Sébastien Bollich, Château du Faucon, Hervé Dapremont, Pierre Defontaine ARTGE, François Denis, Nathalie Diot, Esther Driehaus, Thierry Florin, Vincent Frasiak, Thomas Gérard, Pierre Havrenne, Carl Hocquart, Laetis, Céline Lecomte, Marc en Ciel photographies, Brigitte et Denis Mignon, V Muller, Muse ‘ Arts, Sébastien Ortega-Dubois, Musée Verlaine, Nick Rickert, Rémy Talarico, Alysse Thomé, Wi Splash. Chapter cover and double pages: David Truillard - Marc en Ciel photographies (p 8-9) - TRANSLATION : ALIZE EURO EDITORIAL The

ArdennesThe

e warned. The Ardennes is a potent land, a the pleasure of finding a path that is yours alone, a place magnetic centre, a place of arcane inspiration. to escape to, a haven of peace to recharge your batteries, Arthur Rimbaud, Paul Verlaine, George somewhere to enjoy yourself. All over the Ardennes, Sand, Julien Gracq, and André Dhôtel lakes, rivers and wildlife parks are just so many B are among those who have been sources of vitality and personal fulfilment. ensnared by it. Follow the course of the on foot, by bike In ancient times the goddess Arduinna or by boat, discover the towns and villages reigned over the immense forest of the nestling in its banks. Venture with friends or Ardennes, surrounded by wild boar, stags, family down byways and off the beaten track foxes and a legendary people of mischievous by motorbike or in a motorhome: they are imps, witches and devils. Take care when you sure to lead you to unforgettable buildings. Let upturn a stone or stride over its rocks… when your instinct guide you, and don’t hesitate to ask you walk through the Ardennes you run the risk of your way. The people of the Ardennes are like their being bewitched. But however you travel you also have land: warm, welcoming, and epicurean !

2021 Edition NEWSFLASH

A NUMBER 3 The number of Golf Cross courses in : a New-Zealand sport, a cross between golf and rugby, to be discovered at . R DIARY IN2021 U

WATER SPORTS FOR YO A water park ARTISTIC at Vieilles-Forges 6th edition Champs Boult’où New. Wi Splash, the water park, will be at Vieilles-Forges this summer. From 15th June to 31st August 24 modules will be installed A very special visual experience. The Champs Boult’où artistic trail is held in a 1500 m² enclosure, with two circuits: one for the family from between June and September in the pretty 6 years and over, and a more sporty one for young people and adults. stone-built village of Boult-au-Bois. Visual

ATIONS AND DATES DATES AND ATIONS artistes, stained-glass creators and sculptors,

V The big splash! Fully supervised, of course. basket-makers and ornamental metalwor- kers display their works and invite visitors to discover them during a surprise-filled stroll.

INNO Free entry.

HISTORY

CYCLING Go back in time at Montcornet A new The historic village of Mont-Cornu invites Cross-border you to participate in an exciting adventure: each year new structures are created passage and take you to five different periods: Gallic, Gallo-Roman, Merovingian, Carolingian and medieval … with regular The French and Belgian Ardennes are creating displays and weekend events from a cyclable network which will enable visitors May to September. to explore the Ardennes in all its diversity. During 2021 a new section of greenway will be opened between Carignan and Muno DETAILS FROM : (Ravel network, ). In 2022 it will 4 www.tourisme-valleesetplateaudardenne.com be linked to “the Meuse by bike”. NEWSFLASH

ANNIVERSARY DISCOVERY From 17th to 26th September 21 The World Puppet Theatres Festival celebrates 60 years of creativity in Charleville-Mézières

Try a new angle with Arden&Vous

Feel the thrill of adventure, bivouac in the heart of the forest, walk the finest hiking trails, taste the region’s beers and cheeses : Arden&Vous offers you rich vacation experiences throughout AN ADDRESS TO NOTE GASTRONOMY the cross-border Ardennes region.

MORE DETAILS FROM : Fluo.eu Brewing tourism www.ardenetvous.com This website created by the France’s As well as being a festive, convivial craft Greater East Region provides all the practical product, beer is also a very good way to information you need to travel by train, discover the Ardennes, its countryside, bus, shuttle and more. its know-how and its lifestyle. Cruises, brewery tours, tasting and more. ITINERARY

ON THE SOCIAL NETWORKS : DETAILS FROM : @fluograndest or #montrajetfluos tourisme.echappee-biere.fr From stones to slates The Maison de la Nature (Nature Museum) in Boult-aux-Bois! NATURE On 26th Februry 2020 it was awarded the National Prize for If your holiday route takes you via the A304 Sustainable Tourism in the Leisure category for its Nature tours motorway, regardless of which direction open to all with its specially modified scooters fitted with kits you drive, from Rocroi in the north to Belval to receive people with reduced mobility, allowing them to move in the south or vice versa, you will cross independently. These mixed activities are run by two sustainable the Ardennes Regional Nature Park. environment and development technicians. Take advantage of the opportunity to explore The winner its authentic, well-preserved landscapes. DETAILS : Immerse yourself in Nature as you follow www.maison-nature-boult.eu is... the specially designed itineraries. 5 6 YOU KNOW THE ARDENNES WHEN YOU’VE SEEN... strange shapesand brilliant colours of thePicto Theatres Festival on thePlace Ducale, whenthe Facto Company’s illuminated “Lampadophores” Festival isvery important inthelife of thecity: something magical. The first Saturday of the it’s agreat opportunityit’s to meetwithfriends “This photo was taken during theinaugural PHOTOGRAPHER-ILLUSTRATOR transformed thismagnificent square into performance atthe2017World Puppet in an intense, unforgettable moment DAVID TRUILLARD photo withthecamera on theground, because “The Roc delaTour isan emblematicsite inthe of festivity and joy.” Ardennes thatIlove to photograph. Itook this I wanted to capture thedepthof thehorizon ENTHUSIASTIC PHOTOGRAPHER as well astherocks, to reveal the grandeur of theplace. asublime, It’s preserved site that we must continue to protect.” Sébastien BOLLICH Thomas GÉRARD AMBASSADOR OF THE ARDENNES VIDEO DIRECTOR WITH A PASSION Diaporama FOR PHOTOGRAPHY

“As a Nature lover I always marvel a little more with each sortie in my native region: the Ardennes is bursting with riches. This photo was taken with a drone over the Vieilles-Forges lake when I was making a video entitled “Serenity”. We had started early in the morning when the sun was rising through the mist, giving the lake an unusual radiance. It was utterly calm and the feeling of peace was total. This image best expresses the feelings of well-being that fill me during my relaxing and contemplative excursions in the Ardennes.”

Alysse thomé NATIVE OF THE ARDENNES, DEVOTED PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE CABARET VERT.

“The queue for the campsite at the Cabaret Vert just before the doors open is always a scene of enthusiastic animation. For anyone wanting to discover our region, this cultural and musical festival has to be high on the list: for the four days it lasts, it is an anthology of the Ardennes in a single place. For me it’s essential.”

Brigitte & Denis Mignon WILD LIFE PHOTOGRAPHERS

“This photo was taken in a secret location in the Sedan forest. In the early afternoon, after waiting all morning, we were delighted to see a female boar, accompanied by her young, approach us without apparently sensing our presence. We had the good fortune to watch the young playing boisterously, chasing each other and climbing on tree stumps. This image immortalises that moment: the emblematic beast of the Ardennes forest, a representative of its free, wild fauna.”

SHARE YOUR MOST BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS

#ardennes #visitardenne 7 #ardennestourisme ESCAPISM & AUTHENTICITY

8

When we explore the Ardennes, We don’t discover a forest, But a thousand forests.

André Dhôtel

9 RESPONSIBLE HOLIDAYS

The The flagshipArdennes destination for sustainable tourism

AN EXTRAORDINARY, ABUNDANT AND PRESERVED ENVIRONMENT. TIMELESS VALUES SUCH AS GENEROSITY, AUTHENTICITY AND HOSPITALITY… THE ARDENNES IS, IN ITS ESSENCE, THE REGION OF CHOICE FOR SUSTAINABLE HOLIDAYS.

Easily accessible by train or waterways, it offers an takes the visitor closer to its essence. The numerous ideal setting both for leisure and for reconnecting discovery trails can be followed by a wide choice of with Nature, with its nurturing countryside, protective means, while the network of welcoming and devoted forests, energising watercourses and geological professionals ensures that you are never far from the masterpieces.... activities, good food and lodging you seek. The exceptional variety of its landscapes and of its Hospitality, authenticity and sharing: travel with ECOTOURISM FEATURE ECOTOURISM heritage is an incentive to explore them in depth. It an easy mind and in all simplicity. Inhale the is easy to discover this rural region, where each step Ardennes!

RIDING You will find the list of riding FIND SOME accommodation and local trails CIRCUITS on the CDTE site. Be sure to check GREAT IDEAS ARDENNES EQUESTRIAN that the trails are open before WITH THE DOWNLOADABLE 10 TOURIST BOARD starting out (consult the municipality NATURE EXCURSION GUIDE FROM www.cdte08.ffe.com or regional authorities). www.renard-asso.org > Learn. ROAMING ACCOMMODATION

Cultivate Relax your curiosity Where you wish On foot, by bike, on horseback, on a donkey, Château, cabin, caravan... in a boat, on a quadricycle or a scooter… Ecology means a good night’s sleep.

ACTIVITIES GASTRONOMY

Prioritise Eating local food Nature tours is easy! Tree activities, fishing, The Ardennes region menu ensures visits to farms... and more. that local producers are given prominence. And look for the “Valeurs Parc” brand.

NETWORK OF GOOD IDEAS

APPROVED PARTICIPANTS MAKING THE MOST FOR YOUR GUIDANCE OF THE PARK Have you decided to slow down and live ecologically, Building a nesting box, a sustainable cooking workshop, sourcing locally during your holidays? treasure trails, meeting local producers, country walks, and more.Throughout the year the Ardennes Regional Nature The network of tourist industry providors with the “Ecotourism” Park offers dozens of different low-key ways of discovering label is committed to helping you to do this : local products, the Ardennes. The Maison du Parc (Park information centre) environmental protection, energy management. a stone’s throw from the Forest Museum in is also an excellent source of information about the region. DISCOVER OUR SELECTION OF ECOTOURISM ADDRESSES AT ARDENNES REGIONAL NATURE PARK 11 gb.ardennes.com > Things to see and do www.parc-naturel-ardennes.fr TRANQUILITY

THE ARDENNES REGION OFFERS A REMARKABLE NETWORK OF TRAILS AND ROADS FOR CYCLISTS OF ALL LEVELS. SOME IDEAS FROM AN EXPERT.

Based in Signy-l’Abbaye, Pierrot provides roads to explore all the uniqueness of cycle hire and trails For Pierrot, a specialist in cycling for all levels. in the Ardennes, there’s everything the region, especially with an electrical-

ECOTOURISM FEATURE ECOTOURISM to ensure carefree travelling: “roads ly-assisted bike: the Ardennes Foothills, www.lesvelosdepierrot.fr leading practically everywhere without the Thiérache fortified churches, etc. traffic hazards, a verdant environment, protective forests, and cows and sheep to FOR SPORTSMEN watch us go by!” Whether on an off-road LOOKING or electrically-assisted bike, there’s Between 60 and 100 km per day, FOR A BIKE? something for everyone. Here’s his serious climbing. With the Ar- selection : dennes Foothills and the Thié- FIND THE LIST OF BICYCLE RENTALS rache fortified churches AND REPAIRERS IN OUR FOR THE FAMILY again, plus the Meuse and DOWNLOADABLE GUIDE Semoy valleys and the “Renting a bicycle Between 15 and 35 km very beautiful valley in the Ardennes” between Charleville and Se- daily, on the level. dan: all within reach of more www.ardennes.com There are numerous paths practiced cyclists. > The Meuse by bike, suitable for gentle roaming : Cycling in the Ardennes the banks of the Meuse, with the Trans-Ar- IN EPICUREAN STYLE dennes Greenway, the Ennemane Valley (from Raucourt-et-Flaba to Remilly-Ailli- Never mind the distance or the court), and the Vieilles-Forges Lake. DISCOVER climb. To combine sport, a fabulous heritage and the best eating in the A wide choice of cycle trails, FOR THE EASY-GOING and also more hilly circuits. region, set out to explore Mont-Dieu Between 30 and 50 km with up to or Sedan, or for a superb heritage trail, SUGGESTIONS FOR TOURS FROM 750 metres climb per day. head for the cities of Charles de Gon- gb.ardennes.com Forests, pastures, fields, farms, char- zague and Vauban: Charleville-Mézières 12 > Cycling in the French Ardennes ming villages, and pleasant country and Rocroi. 63 permanent

MTB AND ENDURO TRAILS Panoramas, hill climbs, varied terrain, accessibility… The Ardennes region offers an exceptional playground for lovers of thrills on MTBs. Many trails are marked and labelled VTT-FFC (MTB-French cycling federation). Fans of enduro will find 25 permanent trails in the Ardennes massif. DETAILS www.endurodelasemoy.fr gb.ardennes.com > Mountainbiking in the Ardennes OR WITH THE APPLICATION Ardenne Sports Nature

128 km

OF EASY WATERSIDE TRAILS Whether you feel like a long ride or a short stroll, the Ardennes region does not just offer the 128 km of pathway by the Meuse: The Meuse all of its numerous waterways have welcoming waterside paths,from the 3 km around the Mont Olympe plain Cycle Route in Charleville-Mézières, 9 km of river bends The mighty river Meuse, crossing Cycle Route, awarded the Eurovelo along the Ennemane to start your family cycle trips from Raucourt-et-Flaba several borders, is coupled with a 19 label, offers a unique opportunity to Remilly-Aillicourt, and 20 km of wilder gentle itinerary from its source near to discover the magnificence of the country along the Semoy with the TransSe- Langres to its estuary in Rotterdam: Ardennes through total immersion in moysienne, starting from Monthermé. 1150 km of peaceful cycling, its countryside. The route crosses the Toutes les infos sur including 128 km of the Trans- Haute-Marne, the Vosges, the Meuse, FIND YOUR CYCLE TRACK ON gb.ardennes.com Ardennes Greenway. The Meuse Belgium and the . > Cycle Trails and Greenways

MAP road-book label

TRANS-ARDENNES A MAP ALL-INCLUSIVE GREENWAY FOR EACH STAGE OPTION

Connections with the other greenways The road map shows each stage Follow the “Accueil vélo” label: in the region (TransSemoysienne and in France, with a list of essential sites. a lunch basket, a secure place Ennemane) and the Belgian RaVEL Service providers welcoming cycling for your bike, and access to a repair kit if you have problems... network in Givet are also shown. tourists are highlighted.

AVAILABLE IN ARDENNES TOURIST ACCOMMODATION OFFICES OR FROM DOWNLOAD FROM AVAILABLE FROM voiesvertes.cd08.fr gb.ardennes.com gb.ardennes.com (interactive version) > Brochures and guides > Our networks 13 WELLNESS

Learningwhile you walk

ECOTOURISM FEATURE ECOTOURISM IDENTIFYING TREES, DISCOVERING BEAVERS, CHEESE-HIKING… THERE ARE NUMEROUS THEMED PRESENTATIONS AND WALKS. CELINE AND MICHAEL FOLLOWED BENJ’ANIM ON THE TRAIL OF MEDICINAL PLANTS : REJUVENATING !

“Do you recognise that scent?” “Cloves!” around them: hedge woundwort, in… a taste of childhood. Like Proust “That’s right!” After only a few yards, smelling of mushroom soup, Oregano, and his memorable Madeleine cake, Celine and Michael have identified a common herb in the wild, ground they exclaim, “We used to eat it when the root of Herb Bennet. The walk ivy, good for the lungs… See, smell, we were kids” as they nibble a petal of field devoted to medicinal plants under the touch and even taste! They learn to clover, “good for eczema…” guidance of Benj’Anim is fascinating. crush a nettle leave before tasting As they progress, their guide, a genuine it. The walk is amusing and great enthusiast, shows them small roots fun as well as being enriching and and leaves, and encourages them to energising, with a few animal tracks Arousing participate as they discover the plants and some wild blackberries thrown the Senses With its testing climbs and awe-inspiring scenery, ARDENNES the Ardennes massif draws increasing numbers of During a 4 km-long walk Benj’Anim trail bikers every year, and several iconic local races introduced them to over fifty plants. TRAIL HIKE COUNTRY - the Ardennes Mega Trail, the Aymon Trail or the “Nature, as well as being sublime, offers Rimbaud City Trail - offer in-depth exploration much to be discovered in this region.” As MORE DETAILS FROM of the region. Whether you wish to train or simply well as numerous presentations and www.ardennes.com to explore and enjoy the area, a Trail section >Trail hiking in the Ardennes proposes 12 itineraries totalling 280 km. organised themed walks, over 1,000 14 km of marked trails are available, and a number of themed trails. nature Natura 2000 site DID YOU KNOW ? reserves ? T he Bairon lakes Discover the Bairon lakes, classified a Natura OBSERVE FOUR GRs 2000 site with an all-year programme HUNDREDS CROSS THE of nature rambles, themed walks and educational workshops. OF SPECIES ARDENNES Four GRs (long distance hiking trails) DETAILS Black stork, eagle owl, linnet, dormouse, cross the Ardennes : the GR 654, the +33 ( 0)3 24 71 59 93 or +33 ( 0)6 37 73 33 18 great crested newt, large marsh mythical Compostelle pilgrims’ road, grasshopper, marsh helleborine… www.argonne-en-ardenne.fr which links with Vézelay via Ro- or visit the FaceBook page Destination Argonne en Ardenne the denizens of the Ardennes fauna croi, Signy-l’Abbaye and Vieux-lès-. and flora include hundreds of species, The GR 12, which links Amsterdam and some of which are rare and under threat. and shares the GR 654 path from En route for They are sheltered, protected and Gué-d’Hossus to Hauteville. The GR 14, studied in the Givet (10 sites totalling which links the Greater Paris region The Saint-Quentin Farm 874 acres), Vireux (4.7 acres, with rocks with Belgium via Grandpré, Le Mont-Dieu 385 million years old) and Bois en Val and Sedan. Finally, GR 16, from Liège, Give your hike a special flavour with cheese (34.6 acres at Charleville-Mézières) enters France at Sorendal and follows tasting and a visit to Vanessa Poncin’s sheep nature reserves. the magnificent Semoy valley before farm at Noyers-Pont-Maugis (- joining the GR 654 at . route). ARDENNES HIKING BOARD (CDRP08) DETAILS AND BOOKING [email protected] +33 ( 0)6 60 95 58 16 www.parc-naturel-ardennes.fr ardennes.ffrandonnee.fr [email protected] or +33 ( 0)6 31 57 73 60 [email protected]

Meet Benj’ Anim Make the most of your environment while you walk: nature guide, heritage discovery, workshops and more.

DETAILS [email protected] - +33 ( 0)6 49 48 54 23 In the footsteps of Emmanuel Crametz Bertin, Marius, Gaston… Meet Emmanuel Crametz and get to know his docile, disarming donkeys during excursions with or without their owner.

DETAILS +33(0)6 19 09 29 97

POINT OF VIEW ON THE INTERNET TOURS Brochure

EXCEPTIONAL AN ARDENNES 47 walks CYCLING AND HIKING VISTAS SELECTION IN THE ARDENNES The Ardennes on Foot, the hiking guide from the Uplands, peaks, hills, valleys… Find a selection of the finest walks Brochure published in French French Hiking Federation, change your viewpoint and in the region, without missing or Dutch by the Ardennes Tourist proposes 47 walks as well admire this incredible envi- the points of interest on the way: Development Agency. as riding and cycling trails. ronment from the heights. an on-line topographic guide.

DOWNLOADABLE FROM INFORMATION FROM FURTHER INFORMATION details gb.ardennes.com 15 www.ardennes.com randonnee-ardennes.com gb.ardennes.com > Brochures and guides JOINTLY COMMITTED TO RESPECTING THE ENVIRONMENT...

...THE FULFILMENT ADVERTISING OF OUR CITIZENS...

... AND THE LOCAL ECONOMY © Céline LECOMTE

Maison du Parc naturel régional des Ardennes Route Sécheval - RD140 (FR) 08150 RENWEZ TÉL : + 33 (0)3 24 42 90 57 16 www.parc-naturel-ardennes.fr SHORT BREAKS JOINTLY COMMITTED They’ve cut “RAND’EAU” TO RESPECTING ON THE MEUSE THE ENVIRONMENT... the traces

Enjoy an ecotourism adventure in a kayak while discovering the heritage of Sedan and Mouzon, or the wild Meuse at Remilly- Aillicourt, with the guide Nathalie Piquart: between 2 and 5 km (duration 2 to 3 hours).

DETAILS ON www.patrimoinesdardennes.fr

BE YOUR OWN ...THE FULFILMENT SKIPPER DO YOU FEEL LIKE PRESSING the present moment. Seen from the Take the wheel of a live-aboard THE “PAUSE” BUTTON? Meuse, Givet reveals a new perspective of its fortifications and its port. boat (2 to 10 persons) from FEATURE ECOTOURISM OF OUR CITIZENS... LET YOURSELF BE TEMPTED Ardennes Nautisme at Pont-à- Bar (no permit required) for a BY A RELAXING CRUISE weekend or a week, or try the ON THE . An unexpected introductory offer (9-18 hours), and head north to Charleville and outlook Belgium, east to Sedan, Mouzon, “Isn’t life grand?” Corinne and Danielle Stenay and Verdun, or south toast their holidays! The two friends to Le Chesne, Attigny and . are delighted by their escapade aboard The commentary, in French, English TO BOOK the “Charlemagne”. After leaving Givet and Dutch, presents the history www.pontabarnautisme.fr at 11 am, they planned to have lunch of this sentinel city as well as the or +33 ( 0)3 24 54 01 50 on board with everything taken care special features of the region: gulls, of for two hours of relaxation and good Canada geese, swans and herons … an living. There’s nothing like a spell on a unsuspected world is revealed. A no- ENJOY THE WATER boat for letting things go and enjoying frills breather. DIFFERENTLY Electric boats (no licence required), canoes, paddles, PRACTICAL INFORMATION pedalos… Cruises with onboard commentary from April to September, with dining option. ... AND THE LOCAL ECONOMY From Givet: the “Charlemagne” www.croisieres-charlemagne.com DETAILS FROM From Monthermé: the “Roc”. www.lerocbateausurlameuse.net gb.ardennes.com

© Céline LECOMTE > River tourism and by the waterside THE ARDENNES DID YOU KNOW ? ? WATERWAYS INCLUDE : Maison du Parc naturel régional des Ardennes Route Sécheval - RD140 The Meuse The Ardennes Canal Eastern Canal River stopovers (FR) 08150 RENWEZ 95 km/21 locks 106 km / 46 locks (reopening 100 km/22 locks 17 river stopovers including 2 with TÉL : + 33 (0)3 24 42 90 57 (Pont-à-Bar to Givet) of navigation beyond Le Chesne (as far as Verdun) Pavillon bleu at and Monthermé planned for April 2021) www.parc-naturel-ardennes.fr 17 QUIETUDE

Go in pursuit of Spiritual refreshment HAVEN OF PEACE PEACE OF HAVEN

18 1

THE FOREST INSPIRATIONAL FORCE

Stride into the depths of the mythical forest of the Ardennes, protective and benevolent. Close your eyes, breathe in its woodland scents and regain your inner peace. Enjoy Spiritual refreshment the cool of its rivers, springs and ancient fountains. Absorb its pastoral ambiance as you stroll to sites in peaceful settings: the fountains of Saint-Roger near Elan (1) and Sainte-Olive (3) near Chaumont-Porcien, 2 the Hauts-Buttés (2) or the Saint-Walfroy Hermitage.

ON THE THRESHOLD OF TOTAL AWARENESS

In this environment so auspicious for calm and sweet solitude, yield to the temptation for deep relaxation. Whether you choose yoga or meditation, in the middle of the countryside or in a garden, re-connect 3 with your inner spirituality. Let yourself be borne by the sweetness of life and refocus yourself in total confidence. Draw new energy from the powerful Ardennes earth. Regenerate your vitality.

19 UNEXPECTED

A meeting with Arduin the druid

Jean-Luc and Claudie, French Hiking Federation qualified guides(sometimes accompanied by Arduin’ the Druid) will accompany you on walks lasting from 90 minutes to 2 hours. THE SOUL OF THE ARDENNES IS CELTIC. Bear in mind that the JEAN-LUC LEMAIRE HAS NO QUALMS ABOUT

IN THE LAND OF LEGENDS OF LAND THE IN path can be steep: good walking shoes are DRESSING FOR THE PART. INTERVIEW. essential. Pets must be on a leash. DOWNLOAD THE WHAT’S A DRUID equinoxes (Eiler on 21st March and Elfed on 21st PROGRAMME FROM DOING IN THE ARDENNES? September) and the four feasts marking the pro- jeanluclemaire.fr gress of light: Samain (31st October), Imbolc (2nd “The name of the Ardennes comes from Arduinna, February), Beltaine (1st May) and Lugnasard (1st the Celtic goddess who protected the forest. Many August). We attempt to recreate these ceremonies LEGEND of our place names recall our Celtic roots. During in all simplicity, in relation with Nature.” Tchar Scaille my commentated walks I regularly dress as Ar- WHAT REMAINS OF THE CELTIC A 21st century Myth duin’ the Druid, to tell stories or enact ceremonies, wearing brogues, linen braies (breeches) and a SOUL TODAY? Be ready for a surprise torque, carrying a golden scythe (actually bronze). in the hamlet of Six- “Some sites dedicated to the Celtic gods have re- Chênons: your path may I pay attention to details but it remains educatio- tained their power: the Saint-Walfroy hermitage lead you to this amazing nal and recreational. I didn’t call myself a druid: it circle of menhirs and its where Arduinna was worshipped, the Saint-Ro- came from people who came on my walks.” Tchar Scaille: a chariot ger fountain at Elan where the Ravens’ fountain made of schist, drawn may still be found, the Ruha fountain... And all by two horses. The creator HOW CAN YOU MEET of this work, Philippe ARDUIN’? the stones, springs and tracks of our forest: deep, Boudard, recalls the Celtic sombre and mysterious. It has a wealth of stories tradition of chariot tombs, “There are eight pagan feasts that correspond to and legendary characters: Maugis the Enchanter, and invites us to a journey through different worlds : key events in the natural cycle: the solstices (Ar- the Four Sons of Aymon, the Horse of … the 20 a site full of enchantment. than on 21st December and Efin on 21st June), the mountains of the Ardennes are a magical land.” ELFY PARK

MEUSE IN THE VILLAGE 1 Roc-la-tour OF THE ELVES MONTHERmé THE LADIES Near Vieilles-Forges lake the forest shelters OF THE MEUSE a people of elves who love having fun. Elfy km 23 2 Park, their country, is made up of games: toboggans, zip-lines, net games… over 12 acres of magic, for young and old alike.

SEMOY www.elfypark.fr

DISCOVERY

Take 3 THE 4 SONS OF AYMON The Road BOGNY-SUR-MEUSE ON A PATH Oyez oyez! On the plateau of the 4 sons of of Legends Aymon at Bogny-sur-Meuse, a troubadour tells the tale “of the wondering life of the the 4 sons of Aymon, pursued and persecuted by the Emperor Charlemagne” in a dozen TWELVE ESCAPADES FROM 20 TO 50 KM panels. A gripping legendary saga. In the Ardennes they say there’s a legend under every stone. The Road of Legends gives you the opportunity to overturn one or two as it takes you through the valleys DETAILS FROM of the Meuse, Semoy and Val-de-Lesse. Twelve escapades from 20 to 50 km, gb.ardennes.com by car or bicycle.

THE LADIES THE 4 SONS Roc-La-Tour 1 OF THE MEUSE 2 3 OF AYMON

At Laifour you will meet the forever petri- In Monthermé, Roc-La-Tour will certainly At Bogny-sur-Meuse the 4 sons of Aymon fied Ladies of the Meuse, Hodierne, Berthe enthral you. This chaotic mass of stone is ride Bayard, the magic horse, for all eter- and Ige, the three beautiful daughters of said to be the ruins of a castle, the gift of nity. Set forever in schist, they overlook the the Lord of Rethel. The three sisters were a penniless lord for his lady love. The De- town. Nearby, on the plateau of the 4 sons punished by Heaven for being unfaithful vil promised to build it for him in a single of Aymon, a statue of them recalls that to their husbands, Héribrand, Geoffroid night, in exchange for his soul. But the they once hid here in their Castle at Mon- and Vauthier, the three sons of the Lord of cock sang too soon, and the enraged Devil tessor, built with the help of Maugis the , while on the Crusades. destroyed the castle with a kick. Enchanter, to escape from Charlemagne.

THE ROAD OF LEGENDS CONTINUES IN BELGIUM, RETURNING DETAILS FROM TO FRANCE VIA LES HAUTS BUTTÉS ET LES VIEILLES-FORGES. gb.ardennes.com > Roaming in the Ardennes 21 heritage & sharing

22 Here, History awakens everywhere beneath your feet.

Jules Michelet

23 Escapade b rea k C ity

Three good reasons Encounters & discoveries Seek out the Carolomacerians - for so its to overnight in inhabitants are called. Welcoming and proud of their town, they will guide you in Charlestown, in the footsteps of the poet Arthur Rimbaud, whose memory permeates the town (Arthur Rimbaud Museum, Rimbaud Trail). Does the world capital of puppet theatres interest you ? Then don’t Charleville - miss the Museum of the Ardennes and its collections of puppets, the National School of Puppet Arts, and the Great Puppeteer. Mézières Heritage & treasures From the city of Gonzague to that of Bayard: so many cultural gems! Go back in time, from Charleville’s classical purity whose heart is the Place Ducale, THE IDEAL CITY OF AN ITALIAN PRINCE, HOME TOWN to Mézières’ medieval and renaissance OF ARTHUR RIMBAUD, WITH NATURE EVER PRESENT vestiges (ramparts, Tour du Roy). Discover WITHIN IT…. LET ITS MULTIPLE FACETS SURPRISE YOU. the Art Deco residences, the remarkable 24 GUIDED TOURS

The Tourist Office proposes guided tours: the Town Hall belfry; the town centre; in the footsteps of Arthur Rimbaud; Mézières and the Tour du Roy; the Basilica, its stained glass and the treasure of Ardennes sacred art; Charleville by lamplight; torchlit Mé- zières; flash visit; treasure hunt (for 6-12 year olds)

DETAILS www.charleville-sedan-tourisme.fr +33 ( 0)3 24 55 69 90

MUSEUM OF THE ARDENNES www.charleville-sedan-tourisme.fr 31 place Ducale,+33 ( 0)3 24 32 44 60 RIMBAUD MUSEUM www.musee-arthurrimbaud.fr quai Arthur Rimbaud,+33 ( 0)3 24 32 44 65 MAISON DES AILLEURS (Rimbaud’s family residence) 7 quai Arthur Rimbaud +33 ( 0)3 24 32 44 70

MAËLLE’S Rimbaud Trail PICKS Where literature meets street art: on foot or bicycle, (re)discover the poet’s works, revisited by contemporary artists on the walls of the town.

GUIDED TOUR AND BOOKLET AVAILABLE FROM THE TOURIST OFFICE architecture of the Town Hall and the AND MUSEUM OF THE ARDENNES. Basilica of Our Lady of Hope and its wonderful contemporary stained glass, the work of René Dürrbach, a disciple Maëlle Gressier, and friend of Picasso. At the Ardennes Event 18, from Château-Thierry, Museum, plunge into 2,000 years of the student at Charleville-Mézières history of the Ardennes on both sides of In 1521 the wily and lion-hearted Bayard university. saved the besieged city of Mézières and wrote the frontier, and discover its exceptional his own legend. For the 500th anniversary collections (Gallo-Roman fresco, collection of the siege a cycle of conferences will be of 17th and 18th century arms, etc.). organised, and a camp and reconstruction takes place on 19th and 20th June 2021. Five star choice. It’s a beautiful town. The Place Ducale, of course, but also Nature & activities DETAILS the town centre architecture as a whole. City of Art and History Label My “Carolo” friends say that the Rimbaud +33 ( 0)3 24 32 44 75 Museum and the fresco trail are must-sees. The Carolomacerians are so lucky! Traversed by the Meuse, this “City of Art and History” Festive. There are many opportunities offers cycle tracks along its river banks and to have a drink outside, but also fun places shaded areas as well as numerous public Art Deco Trail in the centre: cinemas, bowling alley, gardens. The Mont-Olympe leisure area, and the swimming pool. I’m also keen Take a new look at the little-known heritage to test the skating rink, which is a bit off dedicated to recreation and promenade, is of this city of art and history. centre, near the La Warenne Lake. an excellent starting point for an escapade Guided tour and new booklet. along the Meuse. Rent a bicycle and benefit Walking. I love all the green spaces from easy access to the Montcy-Notre-Dame DETAILS in the town centre, and MontOlympe City of Art and History Label greenway. is really super for a stroll. A picnic +33 ( 0)3 24 32 44 75 is the best way to enjoy it. 25 Museum IS E M ENT ERT V

A D GUIDED TOURS | EXHIBITIONS | CONCERTS DISCOVERY TRAIL | GARDENS | QUADRICYCLES | BISTROT

26 TRACES

In the footsteps of the

Poetsrimbaud - verlaine 8 sections 300 km

Étape Étape Étape Étape Étape Étape Étape Étape 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08

Juniville Roche Charleville- Vresse-sur Bouillon Paliseul Redu Givet Mézières -Semois

ARTHUR RIMBAUD AND PAUL VERLAINE ARE DEEPLY ROOTED IN THE ARDENNES. THEY BOTH SPENT THEIR CHILDHOOD HERE, PASSED EACH OTHER UNCONSCIOUSLY, AND DREW THEIR STRENGTH AND INSPIRATION HERE. THE RIMBAUD-VERLAINE ROUTE RETRACES THEIR STEPS IN 8 ESSENTIAL STAGES... U TE RO VERLAINE – U D

A FAN NAMED Charleville-Mézières Roche Patti Smith Birthplace of Rimbaud (1854), the epicentre of his In August 1873 Rimbaud, shaken by the Brussels RIMBA The “house of Rimbaud” Myth: Rimbaud Museum, Rimbaud Trail, Maison incident, completed “Une saison en enfer” in the in Roche, built on the former des Ailleurs, his grave ... loft of the family farm at Cuif-Rimbaud, of which family farm, has been only a wall remains. the property of the singer Patti Smith since 2017. Bouillon A writers’ house project is under consideration. From 1880 to 1882, Verlaine frequented the Auberge On 25th May 1873 Verlaine, Rimbaud and their du Lion d’Or here, now the Verlaine Museum (“House friend Delahaye got drunk in the Hôtel des Ar- of the Illustrious”), where, seeking redemption, he dennes. The two decided to go to London. On 9th THE VERLAINE completed “Sagesse” and conceived “Jadis et Naguère.” July Verlaine shot Rimbaud in Brussels. MUSEUM QUADRICYCLES A discovery trail starts from the museum, AND A FEW ESCAPADES with a games booklet. On foot or quadricycle (9 sections, 45 minutes). Rethel : sheltered by the Jesuits for 18 months, Verlaine was at peace. Coulommes : He edited “Sagesse” here, NEW TRAIL Arm in arm with Marc Gaillot, and wrote “Amour”. enthusiastic guide Corbion : Barred from Belgium after the FROM ROCHE at the Verlaine Museum. Brussels incident, he sometimes took refuge here, a stone’s throw from France. Discover the countryside “Nothing is left, only reminiscences” he says, : 1885. Suffering from depression, Rimbaud walked during “these are key sites for the understanding after problems with some inhabitants of Coulonnes, his youth, following new of Verlaine’s life and work.” he spent a month in the prison at Vouziers. information panels (7 km). 27 Grandiose

ADVENTURE ADVENTURE Plunge into

theof the HistoryCastle of Sedan

CITY OF ART AND HISTORY

Sedan, classed as a “City of Art and History” for over 20 years, possesses an exceptional architectural heritage. The new Maison du Patrimoine, in the former public baths, offers a choice of themed discovery trails: learn about Sedan, Turenne, the textile factories and the religious heritage sites.

CENTRE FOR THE INTERPRETATION OF ARCHITECTURE AND HERITAGE 28 + 33 (0)3 24 27 84 85 THIS STONE COLOSSUS, THE BIGGEST FORTIFIED CASTLE IN EUROPE, IS A KEY TO THE HERITAGE OF THE ARDENNES. EXPLORE IT UNCONDITIONALLY.

Go solo Between friends

Enjoy the site in peace. 35,000 m2 await Explore the King’s Bastion while taking part in your discovery with a signposted route ta- the new Escape game created for this season : king you both inside and outside. In sum- an amusing and recreation, with or without the mer, don’t miss the spectacular jousting castle tour. tournaments! With the family

1000 Between the special children’s tour and the YEARS OF many annual events (Playmobil, Easter, HISTORY Halloween, Christmas), you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to immersing your- self in the wonderful history of the princely families of Marck and the Tour d’Auvergne. With a partner The most exciting is surely the Medieval Festival, where every third weekend in May Try a nocturnal torchlit tour this summer, the ramparts are busy with stalls, activities and see the castle in a new light. Magical and 2,500 m2 of encampments which take atmosphere guaranteed. you back in time.

FURTHER DETAILS SEDAN CASTLE +33(0)3 24 29 98 80 The castle is open all year round (see web site www.chateau-fort-sedan.fr or contact the reception desk for opening times CHARLEVILLE/SEDAN and other information). TOURIST OFFICE +33(0)3 24 27 73 73 www.charleville-sedan-tourisme.fr

29 30 ADVERTISEMENT GEMS FINE ARCHITECTURE ARCHITECTURE FINE Welcome to Wonderland FROM THE CHARACTERFUL CITIES OF ROCROI AND MOUZON, THE REMAINS OF THE CASTLES AT MONTCORNET AND HIERGES, TO THE WONDERFUL FORTIFIED CHURCHES IN THIERACHE … HISTORY HAS LEFT AN EXCEPTIONAL ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE IN THE ARDENNES. ENJOY IT AS IT SUITES YOUR TASTE. 31 FINE ARCHITECTURE

Romantic For the family stroll & by motor-home 1 2 Mouzon Fortified churches

Like Rocroi, Mouzon is a “small characterful city”, and strongholds perfect for a romantic escapade in a magic setting. Stroll through its medieval streets, kiss in its secret in Thiérache courtyards, take the time to dream by a canal … dis- cover the Museum of Felt and its collections original Follow the 150 km of the circuit of the fortified clothes, including a beautiful wedding dress and its churches in Thiérache, through pastoral, undulating veil. Just the place for a marriage proposal! countryside, and discover how the inhabitants in the frontier regions resisted the attacks of numerous war hordes. The defensive architecture gave rise FURTHER DETAILS to some very fine edifices, and some superb stron- gholds in Servion, Signy-le-Petit, Rumigny, , Roc- PORTES DU Tourist Office +33(0)3 24 29 79 91 quigny…and many more. www.portesduluxembourg.fr

PLAN YOUR STAGES DID YOU KNOW ?

FINE ARCHITECTURE FINE ? FIND YOUR ARDENNES The Belgian cartoonist Jean-Claude Servais sited the story MOTORHOME CAMPSITES ON of his album "Malmaison", in the “Tendre violette” series, gb.ardennes.com in Mouzon. Several of his plates can be found in the town. > Motor home areas in the Ardennes

The star-city of Rocroi, symbolic when seen from the sky, is worth a ground level visit too! Unique Between friends in France, its radiating architecture (where all the streets converge from the ramparts to & by motorbike the main square) enabled it to resist violent attacks, notably the famous battle of Rocroi in 3 1643, won by the Duke of Enghien. When you head for Givet, visit Vireux and the village of Hierges, where the remains of a castle built in a From Rocroi to Givet single night by Melusine (still partly inhabited) dominate the valley: a waking dream.

INFORMATION

ARDENNES VALLEYS & PLATEAU Tourist Office VAL D’ARDENNE Tourist Office +33(0)3 24 54 20 06 +33(0)3 24 42 92 42 32 www.tourisme-valleesetplateaudardenne.com www.valdardennetourisme.com 1

2 4 OTHER BRILLIANT SITES MONTCORNET CASTLE The castle of the lords of Croÿ, built in the 11th and 12th centuries, rebuilt in 16th century, is an example of the adaptation of military architecture to the development of artillery: a fascinating tour, between ruins and preserved halls.

ASSOCIATION OF FRIENDS OF MONTCORNET +33 6 32 36 97 36 ou +33 6 07 61 15 57 www.chateaudemontcornet.fr 3 LABEL CHARLEMONT CITADEL OF GIVET Built in the 16th century on the orders of Charles Quint, rebuilt by Vauban in the 17th century, this strategic monument offers remarkable views over FACILITIES FOR BIKERS Givet and its valley. Unaccompanied tours, or with THE ARDENNE BY BIKE guides in FR and EN; autoguides in FR / EN / NL / DE.

90 approved sites, from castles to camp Charlemont-Citadelle de Givet sites and B&Bs. The label guarantees +33(0)3 24 56 96 87 a garage or secure parking, a room to dry www.charlemont-citadelle-de-givet.fr clothes, equipment for minor repairs, road maps and biker trail maps, and a list of local repairers. ASFELD: CHURCH OF SAINT DIDIER 4

DETAILS A key baroque church in the shape of a viola de gam- gb.ardennes.com ba. Built entirely of bricks. None of its walls follow a > Discover-roam-the Ardennes by motorbike straight line. A discovery trail starts from the church. (circuits) > Our Ardennes-by-motorbike networks RETHEL REGION Tourist Office (accommodation) +33(0)3 24 38 54 56 - www.sud-ardennes-tourisme.com IS E M ENT Go up ERT V A D In the world

DISCOVER AN EXCEPTIONAL HERITAGE!

• Tours with guides and audioguides • Events for young people • Exhibitions • Shows

Charlemont, Citadel of Givet 34 Route sous Charlemont - 08600 Givet - Tél : +33 (0)3 24 56 96 87 www.charlemont-citadelle-de-givet.fr HEritage At the pace of your steed

IF YOU HAVE EVER DREAMED OF SHOUTING “EN ROUTE, COACHMAN!” THE RIDES IN A HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE FROM THE POSTAL STATION IN LAUNOIS-SUR-VENCE ARE FOR YOU.

Hooves ring under the carriage entrance of the Postal old stone troughs. This postal station is a gem. A walk H A DIFFERENCE Station in Launois-sur-Vence, and the carriage enters around the courtyard is enough to take you back to the the courtyard. Two couples alight, clearly delighted time when the royal mail carried correspondence between with their half day’s ride. Since 2020 this 17th century Paris and Sedan once per week: carriage gates, lodgings for historic monument has again been living to the the travellers, halls for the stagecoaches, dwelling for the rhythm of horses : fine Ardennes draft watchman, rose garden and conservatory… horses, sturdy and powerful, with bay it’s all there. It only remains for you to coats and elegant black socks. take a carriage for the theme ride of your choice: discover farm life, a nature ramble, A STROLL WIT Every day they carry visitors across fields, 17TH CENTURY a gourmet ride, something unexpected, or a woods, farms etc., depending on the ride ride through the forest estate of the château selected. In the evening they return to HISTORICAL at Guignicourt-sur-Vence. From one hour to their stables and drink from four century- MONUMENT a full day.

VISUAL SENSATION DETAILS TO BOOK WALKS Ardennes Foothills Tourist Office With the Les Sabots du Relais association : au +33 ( 0)3 24 35 02 69 au +33 ( 0)6 52 65 12 70 AMAZING ECORDAL www.cretespreardennaisestourisme.fr or +33 ( 0)6 84 35 82 40 PIGMENT MILL [email protected] DETAILS Guided tours on certain dates. VILLAGES ÉTAPE Shopping Details and booking: Ardennes Foothills Tourist Office. With easy access from the toll- At the Launois-sur-Vence Postal +33 ( 0)3 24 35 02 69 free Ardennes motorways, A34 Station, a farmers’ market is and A304, Launois-sur-Vence/ held every first Friday in the These piles of coloured earth create a striking image, with a Poix-Terron and Rocroi have month from 3:30 pm to 8 pm; hint of India in the shimmering colours, yet this is the heart of been granted the “Village an antiques fair and flea market the Ardennes countryside, in one of the last pigment mills in étape” label, and as such, is held every second Sunday in France. This exceptional heritage site, dating from 1866 and offer a range of services the month from 9 am to 6 pm. classified “Enterprise of Living Heritage”, continues to produce on the holiday route, coloured earths sought after throughout the world. in an exceptional setting.

The emblematic Ardennes draft horse is still used today for hauling timber, working in vineyards DID YOU KNOW ? and rose gardens, environmentally friendly waste collection and watering flowerbeds in towns. 35 IS E M ENT Coteaux, Maisons

ERT & Caves de V

© photos : Michel Jolyot

A D

www.champagne-patrimoinemondial.org

CUSTODIANS OF AN OUTSTANDING UNIVERSAL VALUE

is landscape, an authentic expression of the action of both man and Nature, nurtured the emergence of an outstanding wine, recognised as the universal symbol of celebration, reconciliation, and festivity.

36 Tradition

Made from raw wool, washed and carded but not spun, this non-woven textile is the oldest in the world. Nevertheless, its uses The age-old craft remain very modern: felt-tipped pens, chair gliders, gaming mats, glass and teeth polishing, and for sound insulation in of felt-making vehicles.

This environmentally-friendly material, FELT, THE FIRST TEXTILE malleable and ideal for any whimsy, is TO BE PRODUCED BY MAN especially appreciated by contemporary 8,000 YEARS AGO, IS A LIVING creators and couturiers. The display cases in MATERIAL THAT THE FELT the museum give an idea of the depth of their MUSEUM IN MOUZON SHOWS creativity. Are you ready to try? You will need YOU HOW TO TAME. water, soap, heat… and your hands. That’s all.

Introduction to felt-making (1 hour), creation of objects with a felt-maker (half Sublime day), adult workshops to make a beret or SPANISH HOUSE CRAFTS ANCIENT

a scarf (1 day)…. Discover this ancestral H art at the Felt Museum & Workshop in This 16th century vestige of the Spanish occupa- tion houses the Museum of Old Revin, and objects Coteaux, Maisons Mouzon, the only site dedicated to this material in France (April - October), and from the collection of the pioneers Faure, Arthur Martin and Porcher. There are other Spanish & Caves de an accredited Museum of France. houses in Mouzon. Champagne THE ARDENNES IN 4 ELEMENTS www.champagne-patrimoinemondial.org NTER WIT U NTER ENCO AN Wood Metal Arduenna Silva, the primary forest, Metalworking has powered the heart of the Ar- CUSTODIANS OF is the region’s lungs. A museum is dedicated to dennes for centuries. The blast furnace it and to the crafts it gave rise to. and the Museum of Metallurgy bear witness to it.

AN OUTSTANDING UNIVERSAL VALUE MUSEUM OF THE FOREST, RENWEZ MUSEUM OF METALLURGY, BOGNY-SUR-MEUSE +33 ( 0)9 67 47 82 66 +33 ( 0)3 24 35 06 71 www.renwez.com www.musee-metallurgie-ardennes.fr is landscape, an authentic expression of the action of both man and Nature, nurtured the emergence of an outstanding wine, recognised as the universal Slate Felt The subsoil is full of it. It fashions the countryside symbol of celebration, reconciliation, and festivity. From wool to the material in all its many uses, discover felt and local architecture: facades, roofs, fountains, in Mouzon, the last town in France to have a felt factory. gravestones and the remains of quarries…

HOUSE OF SLATE, RIMOGNE FELT MUSEUM & WORKSHOP, MOUZON +33 ( 0)3 24 35 13 14 +33 ( 0)3 24 26 19 91 www.village-ardoise-rimogne.fr www.mouzon.fr

? DID YOU KNOW ? The Hermès Birkin and Kelly bags have been produced in the Ardennes since 2004. 37 ITINERARIES The keyof sitesthree wars

THREE WARS, TOTALLY OCCUPIED inhabitants of the Ardennes: the “Les Pousse Cailloux” House THREE TIMES. FROM 1870 TO 1945, of Remembrance (), the Museum of the KEY PAGES OF EUROPEAN Two World Wars (Chagny), the Spahis Museum HISTORY WERE WRITTEN () or that of the May-June 1940 IN THE ARDENNES. battle (). NUMEROUS SITES BEAR WITNESS TO IT.

From the capitulation of Napoléon III at Some sites Sedan in 1870, the HQ of the Emperor still resonate! William II and his staff in Charleville from 1914 to 1916, the death of the last French soldier at Vrigne-Meuse in 1918, to the Sedan breakthrough in 1940 : the Some sites resonate still with the tragedies Ardennes region was deeply impacted they witnessed, such as the village of by the conflicts which changed the face , the Museum of the "Last cartridge" of Europe from 1870 to 1945. ("dernière cartouche") in , or the In consequence, it contains a unique poignant Fort of La Ferté, a symbol of the memory-based heritage, such as the collection in Maginot Line, untouched since the battle of 14th May 1940. Sedan castle of objects from the site of the 1870 battle. RANCE TOURISM REMEM B RANCE Military graveyards and cemeteries are a reminder of the The Museum of War and Peace in the Ardennes is a key sacrifice of the men of all nationalities who fell in battle (Floing, introduction (p.41) to understanding events in detail or for La Marfée, Torcy, Chestres, Villy-la-Ferté, Orfeuil and considering the bigger picture, but other sources remain others), as are the remembrance tours throughout the region to be considered, and especially those of persons wishing (, for example). The Ardennes region is an open book to pass on the history that impacted generations of of living history.

SMARTPHONE APPLICATION Download this application and be sure not to miss the 68 noteworthy sites listed: it will tell you when you are in the vicinity of each of the localities associated with one of the key conflicts which beset the region (1870-1871, 1914-1918, 1939-1945). At the Museum of War and Peace in the Ardennes an THE ARDENNES, interactive terminal completes this application with an overview of the sites, LAND OF REMEMBRANCE allowing you to prepare a list of your favourites by flashing the site QR code. 38 Available in French, English and German from Apple Store and Android market. AYVELLES FORT

KEY SITES Givet (from 1877; 1914-1918)

AUGUSTIN TRÉBUCHON REMEMBRANCE TRAIL (1914-1918: 1.7 km unaccompanied) Vrigne-Meuse

La Maison de la Dernière cartouche MUSEUM OF WAR (1870-1871) AND PEACE Bazeilles IN THE ARDENNES Charleville-Mézières

(1870 to 1945) Sedan Novion-Porcien

Rethel

FORT OF LA FERTÉ Vouziers (1939-1945) Villy-la-Ferté www.ouvragelaferte.fr GARROS MONUMENT SERGEANT YORK (1914-1918) HISTORICAL TOUR Saint-Morel (1914-1918) Châtel-Chéhéry

VISITS AND ITINERARIES FURTHER INFORMATION

• UNACCOMPANIED “THE ARDENNES, WITH BOOKLETS LAND OF REMEMBRANCE”

Sedan during the Great War; DOWNLOAD FROM remembrance tours in the Sedan gb.ardennes.com region (1870/1914/1940); Charleville, > Brochures and guides Mézières: French capitals of Germany 1914-1918. Tour DOWNLOAD FROM www.charleville-sedan-tourisme.fr +33 ( 0)3 24 27 73 73 VILLA RENAUDIN Several rooms in the Villa Renaudin, the residence of the Kaiser and Kronprinz from • GUIDED TOURS 1914 to 1916, have been refurbished to en- able visitors to immerse themselves in the OF SEDAN martial atmosphere of the period. Entry to the map room, infirmary and the Kaiser’s Year-round, with the town bunk throughout the year heritage department.

Details INFORMATION FROM www.sedan.fr www.ch-belair.fr 39 +33 ( 0)3 24 27 84 86 +33 ( 0)3 24 56 88 88 A MUSEUM UNIQUE IN EUROPE HISTORY OF 3 WARS IS E M ENT ERT V A D

Between and Charleville-Mézières via A34 motorway

40

ADT -ANG - Inspiration 2021 - 215x280.indd 1 04/09/2020 14:21:47 Transmission I tested the Museum of War &Peace in the Ardennes

IMMERSIVE MUSEOGRAPHY, RICHNESS OF COLLECTIONS AND COMMENTARY. THE WAR AND PEACE IN THE ARDENNES MUSEUM IS FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY. EACH AT THEIR OWN PACE.

“Mum! Germans on the left, visitors to understand: a 1914 French on the right!" As soon as trench, an archaeological dig, they enter the Museum of War audiovisual aids… and Peace in the Ardennes, AN IMPRESSIVE children are caught up by the COLLECTION superb dioramas representing the Sedan battlefield of 1870. Multi-facetted Around them, an impressive collection of rifles continues to exploration hold their attention. Perfect. It leaves me time to take in the story panels on the walls and Life for the civilian population, the many objects illustrating and the innovations introduced, TOURISM REMEM B RANCE this period of History. The are highlighted by numerous gallery of time begins in 1852, day-to-day objects. From during the Crimean war, the detailed scale models to root of three successive wars, impressive heavy equipment, and leads us to 1945 and the exploration is multi-facetted. Liberation, en route for peace. History is presented for old 5,000 m2, 14,000 objects, and and young alike with the aim over 160 uniforms.The figures of education for peace and are enough to make one dizzy, citizenship. You’ll want to come yet once inside the museum, back. it all becomes clear and we are carried away. MUSEUM OF WAR AND PEACE IN THE ARDENNES The immersive museography www.guerreetpaix.fr and the original presentation Museum of War and Peace bring history alive and help +33 ( 0)3 24 72 69 50

Army officer, industrialist, MP …. Ge- to visit the General’s home: 250 m2 Murder Party neral de Saint-André, a multi-faceted set aside for a murder party, staged figure, has been murdered in his using objects from the museum’s residence. Seven people are suspec- collections. An entertaining exhibi- WHO KILLED GENERAL ted. Who committed the crime? You tion about the three wars, full of have to solve the mystery! For the secret hiding places and enigmas. DE SAINT-ANDRÉ? 2021 season the Museum of War and For 12 years and over, or younger Peace in the Ardennes invites you if accompanied by an adult. 41 FAMILY & wellness

42

In a dream I shall feel its coolness on my feet ; I'll let the wind bathe my bare head.

Arthur rimbaud

43 44 ADVERTISEMENT DISCOVERY Enjoy experiences with the family OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES OUTDOOR

YOUR CLAN IS THIRSTING FOR KNOWLEDGE, TO GET STUCK IN AND SURPASS THEMSELVES. ACTION, EVERYONE !

Prepare fruit brochettes for the bats, take a parrot Become under your wing, visit the racoon enclosure or learn an animal keeper about the life of wolves… enjoy a unique experience by accompanying an animal keeper for a morning AT ARGONNE DISCOVERY PARK in the Argonne discovery Park. From 7 and older, DETAILS accompanied by an adult. www.parc-argonne-decouverte.fr 45 TAKE THE FANTASTICABLE FANTASTICABLE: BUNGEE JUMPING AT THRILLS AND SPILLS www.terraltitude.com CHALLENGE trail gb.ardennes.com > Trails The Fantasticable at the Fumay TerrAltitude incomparable settings : a bungee jump from Trail section : espacetrail.run/fr/ardenne Park is a mathematical challenge that could the 20 metre tower in Fumay or the 37 metre appeal to your teenager: how long will he take viaduct, 380 metres of MTB enduro to travel 1.2 km at 110 km/hour, bearing in mind downhill biking or trail climbs (between 35% Enduro MTB that his trip through the air will be 110 metres and 40% for the Haulmé Wall), or a jump from FaceBook Page above the Meuse forest ? He found the answer 3,500 metres at 200 km/hour in freefall with Semoy & Monthermé already? Try some other challenges in these the Belval paraclub… MTB clubs

PARAGLIDERS, LIGHT AIRCRAFT AND ULM BREATHTAKING gb.ardennes.com > In the air

TRY THESE OTHER THRILLS PARACHUTING Belval Paraclub CLIMB THE LEGENDARY HAVE FUN IN THE AERIAL Registration on ARDENNES SITES ADVENTURE PARCS +33(0)6 84 05 20 05 (Roc-la-Tour in Monthermé, the Corpias (TerrAltitude in Fumay, Ardennes Terre d’Aventures in , la Roche aux Corbeaux at Vieilles-Forges Lake and Chêne Perché BUNGEE JUMPING in Hautes-Rivières…) in Signy-l’Abbaye: for all the family. FROM EXERMONT VIADUCT DETAILS www.adrenaline-elas-

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES OUTDOOR From Charleville Alpine Club DETAILS tique.com/exermont.html www.cafca08.fr gb.ardennes.com +33(0)6 73 58 66 45 gb.ardennes.com > Climbing > Parcours aventure

110 km/h

46 An encounter Enter a fairy-tale Learn with bees world to fish

"Rucher du Marcassin" Elfy park Vendresse

Go as close as you wish: at the Seraincourt Elfy Park, dedicated to the legends of the Fario, rainbow, salmon, gold …. Cast your line educational apiarian farm you can Ardennes, is a haven of peace, freshness in one of the three lakes at the Vendresse observe the bees in complete safety, and games in the heart of the forest… just fish farm and catch the type of trout that and learn everything about pollinating where elves live. Can you see them climbing tempts you, whether you are a beginner or an expert. Follow your fishing expedition and the history of bee-keeping. Tour of the netting or in the tree houses? Summer with a visit to the Domaine de Vendresse the honey house, observation of a hive, toboggan runs, Tyrolean traverses, sleds, for outdoor activities, its aquarium… and a tour of the herb garden and discovery of barefoot trail … all facilities are open to son & lumière to discover how a 19th century pollinating insects. young and old alike. Let yourself be carried blast furnace works. away by the magic of the place!

lerucherdumarcassin.blogspot.com www.elfypark.fr www.domaine-de-vendresse.fr

Offer yourselves other breath-taking tigny, meet the animals at the Liart IDeaS activities: go deep in the Nichet caverns at educational farm or the Arche de Noë (the only subterranean caves in Eteignières, discover the avia- open to the public in north-east France), tion museum, and don’t leave without ACTIVITIES FOR ALL discover the Valley on board a rail paying homage to Woinic, the giant THE FAMILY car (Micheline, Picasso) starting from At- boar, the symbol of the Ardennes.

GAMES Bowling alleys, go-karts, AND MORE… Gyropode scooter, quadricycle, horseriding…a selection games parks open in summer of sports and outdoor leisure activities in the Ardennes or year round. is available through the Ardennes Nature and Adven- tures network, which lists all service providers. gb.ardennes.com gb.ardennes.com > Leisure areas > Our networks/Nature & adventures 47 IS E M ENT ERT V A D GAMES AREAS, TOUCH TANK, AQUARIUMS, SON & LUMIERE, BRASSERIE, FISHING

48 VitalitY

1001 WAYS TO take the plunge BUCOLIC, FRESH OR NAUTICAL…. THE ARDENNES WATERWAYS ARE MULTI-FACETED: RIVERS, LAKES, PONDS OR STREAMS, EACH TO THEIR STYLE.

CANOE Paddle AT IN THE SEMOY Vieilles -Forges Like small sea resorts, the leisure VALLEY centres of Bairon, Douzy Paddle towards adventure and Vieilles-Forges offer a wide choice on the white water of the region’s of activities: pedal boats, canoe, rivers and savour the pleasure kayak, stand-up paddle, etc. of discovering the countryside GAMES AREAS, at your own pace. Several routes are available in the Semoy valley, TOUCH TANK, on the Aisne or the Meuse. BATTERIES YOUR RECHARGE AQUARIUMS, SWIMMING SON & LUMIERE, AT DOUZY SAILING Hot sand under your feet, invigorating BRASSERIE, water between your fingers, AT BAIRON the laughter of children… FISHING Sail on the calm water of the lakes benefit from one of the and enjoy the water sports 7 supervised beaches this summer : offered on the Bairon and Vieilles-Forges, Douzy, Bairon, Sedan, Vieilles-Forge Lakes. Catamarans, La Warenne (Charleville-Mézières), dinghies, windsurfing. La Samaritaine (Buzancy) and La Motte (Signy-le-Petit).

DETAILS Details of lakes and bodies of water, sailing centres and swimming pools, and sailing activities from tourist offices. gb.ardennes.com > By the waterside

Every summer the Ardennes regional council organises activities at the Bairon and Vieilles- DID YOU KNOW ? ? Forges beaches. Team games, tchoukball, archery, keep fit, introduction to handisport. 49 50 ADVERTISEMENT MAGIC

La Cassine en Ardenne a breeding ground of culture

A FORMER CHATEAU AND CONVENT IN A PARK OF OVER 54 ACRES, LA CASSINE EN ARDENNE© IS A FABULOUS PLACE FULL OF SURPRISES. COME HERE TO DREAM AND RELAX FROM MARCH TO SEPTEMEBER.

12 JUIN DAZZLING STIMULATING 30 APRIL & 1ST MAY SOLIDARITY 25TH SEPT

LES MISÉRABLES IN SON & LUMIÈRE. CRIME AT CASSINE © Cassine live© From 17th July to 14th August, this literary classic Conduct the investigation in a giant Cluedo Entirely new attraction on 25th September. is adapted by the Association’s volunteers. The on 30th April and 1st May, on the theme Contribute to saving the heritage of La Cassine FANTASY OF REALM THE IN scenes take place on a stage moving 350 metres. of the Exorcist, and 18th and 19th September by attending a musical charity weekend. Unique en Europe. on the poisons affair under Louis XIV.

ASTONISHING 10TH & 11TH AVRIL OUT OF THE ORDINARY 12TH JUNE SPELLBINDING

BEHOURD TOURNAMENT Ciné Cassine© HERITAGE DAYS Jousting in full armour - authentic reproductions On 12th June, try a drive-in in the gardens On 18th and 19th September, discover the fabu- from historic sources, will enliven a weekend of a 16th century château. Open air cinema lous history of this site, a former convent of the of arts and crafts in partnership with the Compa- on a giant screen in a verdant setting, Cordeliers order, during the European Heritage gnons du Devoir (Guild of Master Craftsmen): stone if weather permits. Days. Guided tours during the day and torchlit dressing, stained glass, decorative wrought iron. in the evening.

AMUSING 22ND MAY Convivial 4TH APRIL NEW IN 2021

THEATRE OF IMPROVISATION PEOPLE ON THE MARCH LA CASSINE EN ARDENNE ©, Discover Mitch and his creative team on 22nd To open the season on 4th April and discover A HISTORICAL AND TOURIST SITE, May for a rare evening of delightful improvisation. the Ardennes Foothills at your own pace, BROADENS ITS OFFER WITH THE ADDI- with a choice of circuits (5, 10, 20, 30 km. TION OF UNUSUAL ACCOMODATION

The site of La Cassine en Ardenne, © supported by the French Heritage Foundation, DETAILS DID YOU KNOW ? ? was selected in 2019 by the Bern mission for saving endangered heritage sites. www.la-cassine.com 51 LOCAL CULTURE & MAGIC

52

Ardennes ! Oh let the spring leaves grow ! The wind that has risen makes your very rock dance.

Camille LECRIQUE

53 Puppet Festival TEN EXCEPTIONAL DAYS

? WORTH KNOWING

THE st 21 Edition A TRIPLE ANNIVERSARY :

60 years of the festival (founded in 1961 by Jacques Félix, President of the Petits Comédiens de Chiffons – “Little actors in rags”) 40 years of the International Puppet Institute and 30 years of the Great Puppeteer 54 (place Winston Churchill). FASCINATING From 17th to 26th September 2021

BEING PRESENT AT CHARLEVILLE-MÉZIÈRES DURING THE WORLD PUPPET THEATRES FESTIVAL IS A UNIQUE EXPERIENCE. EFFERVESCENCE, INVENTIVENESS, FANTASY. HERE’S HOW TO MAKE THE MOST OF THIS EXTRAORDINARY HIVE OF ACTIVITY.

Opening Take a hint from Nelly Royaux Experience an instant of intense sharing with the opening Nelly has been immersed performance, given traditionally on the Place Ducale on the in the festival since she first Saturday, the start of ten days of artistic liberty and in- was little, and has never vention. The following Saturday sees the closing ceremony. missed one. An In and some Offs Programmes

Ilka Schönbein, Neville Tranter, Agnès Limbos, Duda Paiva, The first thing to do is to obtain the programmes. The EVENT Les Anges au Plafond, Türak, Yaëlle Razooly… dozens of well- IN version is on line from the end of June (www. festi- known, talented artists are again announced for 2021. To val-marionnette.com), and tickets sell rapidly. During enjoy the IN theatre, book ahead. For the OFF theatre, the the Festival a table shows the places available, and festi- day before will do. For the street, IN or OFF … keep your ear val goers sometimes sell their tickets there. For the OFF, close to the ground. the key point is the MCL Ma Bohème. (www.off-marion- nette.com). Curiosity

Stalls, restaurants and transitory shows are created during Exhibitions these 10 days: be curious – surprises await you in unexpec- No tickets? Fall back on the exhibitions. They are magni- ted places. ficent and free. Keep you eyes about you as you go from one to another, and enjoy the street shows. Puppet bar This is the meeting place for the puppeteering community, Encounters the many voluntary workers and festival-goers: go there to The people of the Ardennes are friendly. They will rea- relax and enjoy the goings-on throughout the festival. It’s dily update you, and word of mouth is a good source of the ideal spot to meet experts, learn the history of the festi- information. Arrive 10 minutes in advance for the street val, and find things to do. shows to ensure a good view.

PUPPET THEATRE DETAILS FROM AT CHARLEVILLE-MÉZIÈRES www.festival-marionnette.com

MUSEUM THE GREAT THE ESNAM INTERNATIONAL OF THE ARDENNES PUPPETEER PUPPET INSTITUTE Discover puppets from Every hour this giant The Higher National School The Institute, a centre of interna- all over the world in a vaste automaton, created by of Puppet Arts was founded tional resources, is a meeting place display from the end Jacques Monestier, plays in 1987. Graduate students as well as a place of teaching of the 19th century to a playlet from the legend put on a show, with an open and study. Its documentation the present day. of the 4 Sons of Aymon. day in March. centre is now open. 55 spectacular

cabaret vert A FERVOUR UNMATCHED WORLDWIDE

AT THE END OF AUGUST NEARLY 100,000 PEOPLE COME TOGETHER FOR 4 DAYS AROUND THE GREAT NAMES OF MUSIC. A MOMENT OF FESTIVITY AND SHARED JOY IN THE HEART OF THE CITY. 56 NEW

From 19th to 22nd ASFELD VIOLA August 2021 DE GAMBA FESTIVAL www.cabaretvert.com

The Saint-Didier church in Asfeld, a wonder of the 17th century “present in art books throughout the “We sing, we dance, we meet friends and word”, shaped like a viola de gamba, bewitched Jean-Louis make friends: that’s the Cabaret Vert!” In Charbonnier, a viola de gamba the heart of Charleville-Mézières, the teacher in Paris and the double Cabaret has been the essential summer for Jean-Pierre Marielle in date for all lovers of festive ardour since “All the Mornings of the World”. 2005. Angèle, Twenty One Pilots, Justice, The French Viola Society and the Asfeld Heritage Iggy Pop, Selah Sue, Indochine, Public Association have combined Ennemy, Travis Scott… for 4 days the to create the International unchallenged quality and eclecticism of its Festival of the Viola de Gamba, international programme attracts nearly a bowed instrument played in the European courts from 100,000 people. Today it is one of the ten the 15th to 18th centuries. best festivals in France , still retaining This incomparable event its local roots, its defence of good living attracts over 5,000 people (cuisine from the Ardennes and Eastern every two years and brings France) and its commitment to eco- together great names from the world of classical music: citizenship (solar panels, selective waste Paolo Pandolfo, Guido collection, tree planting). Borne by over Balestracci, Jordi Savall... 2,000 enthusiastic voluntary workers, , it the next edition is in 2021. confirms its growing vitality with a large range of activities: street arts, debates, DETAILS cinema and a now famous festival of strip www.paysrethelois.fr

cartoons. A key element in the identity of www.sud-ardennes-tourisme.com FESTIVITIES AND MUSIC the Ardennes, the Cabaret Vert (from the poem by Rimbaud) is an experience not to Guitare be missed under any pretext. PRESTIGE EVENINGS IN SEDAN 28th edition of the Guitar and Heritage Encounters, from 25th June to 9th July: when artistic exigence re- mains popular and convivial.

CLASSICAL

THE LOUVERGNY “MUSICALES” Musicians and opera singers sound their notes and their good humour in the Vouziers region throughout the summer.

ROMANTIC SOULS OF THE LAND MUSIC AGAIN A GENEROUS THE COUR DES Festival of Ardennes Aymon folk festival in Bogny- PRÉS IN RUMIGNY REGION Brotherhoods in Charle- sur-Meuse, Ardenn’rock in ville-Mézières, the Beer Signy- l’Abbaye, the “Autom- Each summer this 16th Friendliness, warmth and welcome Festivals in Charleville-Mé- nales festives” in Launois-sur- century stronghold hosts await you during the many festivi- zières, Haybes and Rethel, Vence, Festibarock’in in Mon- musical evenings and ties organised throughout the year. Onion Fair in Givet… thermé, Vouziers Festival … candlelit dinners. details 57 +33(0)3 24 35 52 66 SHARING In the kitchen of a top chef Gratien Leroy

HIS PASSION FOR GASTRONOMY BROUGHT HIM IN FRONT OF THE CAMERAS. THE PROTEGE OF THE STARRED CHEF PHILIPPE ETCHEBEST OPENS HIS DOOR.

ARDENNES DE FRANCE: … AND LOCAL Logis RED FOR LOCAL PRODUCE FARMERS’ MARKETS des Ardennes GOLD If the source of raw materials and the quality of The smell of cheese, the good humour Logis des Ardennes Saffron grows in the Ardennes, products, services and know-how are important of the market gardeners, their colourful restaurateurs offer regional- a local, craft production. Group for you, you can rely on the “Ardennes de France” stalls …. Friendliness, freshness and au- ly-inspired menus and select, tours at the farm, introduction logo: some 40 producers with this label propose thenticity are the perquisite of the Local where possible, the best to saffron cultivation, tasting, over 150 quality products, the result of their Farmers’ Markets: a sure source of local, local produce. culinary workshops. exceptional savoir-faire. seasonal food and farm quality produce.

gb.ardennes.com gb.ardennes.com 58> Ardennes de France www.marches-producteurs.com www.logis-ardennes.com > Ardennes de France “We prepare our dishes with our hearts, with passion this child of the Meuse valley () and with appetite.” For Gratien Leroy, the winner of agreed to reveal the recipe which delighted the “Objectif Top Chef” programme on France’s the jury’s taste buds, all the more so that it M6 TV channel, and a warm and enthusiastic gives prominence to a typical local product: the participant in the 11th season, Ardennes cuisine Ardennes red turkey, accompanied by a purée of is inseparable from three words: conviviality, onion squash. “All you have to do is cook it, blend it sharing and generosity. Faithful to these values, with cream, season it, and it’s ready!” Over to you.

Ballotine de dinde rouge des Ardennes sauce champagne

TO SERVE 4 : Cut the turkey filet in two lengthwise. Tie it with string 1 red turkey filet to give it a nice round shape. Hay 1litre poultry stock Cook the white meat Butter 15-20 minutes at 80°C with Salt the hay in poultry stock. Pepper

250 g of liquid cream Colour the ballotines astronomie 30 cl of champagne in butter with a little hay. G

Sauce : reduce 50 cl of poultry stock infused with hay, ? DID YOU KNOW ? 30 cl of champagne, 30 cl of cream. When thickened, The Ardennes Red add 1 or 2 spoonfuls Turkey arrived of champagne to give acidity. in Europe following the discovery of America.

Terroir CROSS-BORDER ROUTE

EACH REGION HAS BEER-LOVERS TOUR ITS SPECIALITY Between tasting, tours and sporting activities, follow cross-border beer route, which links Mariembourg and Bouillon The Ardennes region is a Garden of Eden: fruits from RED in 20 stages via Charleville-Mézières and discover the brewing and Semoy, cider from the foothills, cheese GOLD heritage of the Ardennes: museums, abbeys, breweriess from Rocroy, onion tarte from Givet, Haybes ham, (, Maredsous, PBA, Ardwen, Orval). 648 intoxicating Rethel white pudding …not forgetting the essential kilometres. The pass’bière issued by Adrien Donnette, boar, “cacasse à cul nu”, bacon salad, "galette à suc" the region’s brewing ambassador, can entitle you to benefits. and "gâteau mollet" - local brioche. FURTHER INFORMATION FROM details gb.ardennes.com www.visitardenne.com > Where to eat > “Tourist routes” / “ambassadors” 59 IS E M ENT ERT V A D

Gîtes de France To explore the region or for a relaxing weekend, rambles in the forest, excursions on MBT or Ardennes on the water, culture, architecture, history, legends…. There are so many good reasons for staying in the Ardennes ! And we propose some 200 doors awaiting you, each a guarantee of a quality stay. Find all our offers: accommodation, holiday cottage booking, and other promotions on www.gites-de-france-ardennes.com 60 RELAXATION

details from www.ardennes.com - > Accomodation

A roof for All your wishes ACCOMODATION

WHAT KIND OF STAY ARE YOU LOOKING FOR ? ROMANTIC, AUTHENTIC, SURPRISING, NATURE OR COMFORT? THE CHOICE IS VAST.

Charm Conviviality Unusual Liberty Cocooning For romantic holidays, Choose the authenticity Looking for adventure and Nature is indispen- You prefer to live at your choose the charm of a of a room as a paying spice? Count on the imagi- sable for you. On a lake- pace and feel at home. nation of the people of the side, in the forest, deep Rentals with a variety of château (from 10th to 17th guest, with its warm and in the countryside or century) or a characterful personalised welcome. Ardennes and their love close to a town, camp- attractions await you: residence. Exceptional Numerous comfort fea- of Nature : gypsy caravan, sites offer conviviality B&Bs, chalets, flats, service and setting. tures are available: heated Finnish kota, bubble, yurt, and simplicity. From 1 to houses with a pool or pool, spa, garden, bicycle on water, in the trees. Fan- 5 stars, a whole range of not, room for large fami- hire etc. tasy has no limits. facilities. lies, etc.

TURNKEY Cultural, sporting, gourmet, historic…. DETAILS FROM LETTING GO professionals take care of everything. www.ardennes.com HOLIDAYS All you have to do is choose. > Holiday ideas 61 PRACTICAL NOTES

ARDENNES ARGONNE EN ARDENNE PORTES DU LUXEMBOURG Useful addresses HIKING BOARD TOURIST OFFICE TOURIST OFFICE 2 rue Irénée Carré 10 place Carnot Place du Colombier 08150 08400 Vouziers 08210 Mouzon ARDENNES Tél : +33 (0)6 37 11 07 90 Tél. +33 (0)3 24 71 97 57 Tél. +33 (0)3 24 29 79 91 ardennes.ffrandonnee.fr www.argonne-en-ardenne.fr www.portesduluxembourg.fr TOURISM DEVELOPMENT ARDENNES FEDERATION AGENCY FOR FISHING AND CHARLEVILLE/SEDAN PROTECTION OF THE AQUATIC EN ARDENNE 24 place Ducale, BP 419 ENVIRONMENT TOURIST OFFICE Visit 08107 Charleville-Mézières cedex ardenne Parc d’activités Ardennes Émeraude Charleville-Mézières gb.ardennes.com 08090 24 place Ducale, BP 229 Tél. : +33 (0)3 24 56 41 32 08102 Charleville-Mézières www.generationpeche.fr Tél. +33 (0)3 24 55 69 90 FROM ONE Gîtes de France REGIONAL OLYMPIC www.charleville-sedan-tourisme.fr ARDENNE TO Ardennes AND SPORTING COMMITTEE SEDAN ANOTHER 21 rue Hachette Maison Départementale des Sports 15 place d’Armes 08000 Charleville-Mézières Route de 08200 Sedan France, Belgium, Luxembourg: Tél. +33 (0)3 24 56 89 65 08140 Bazeilles Tél. +33 (0)3 24 27 73 73 the Ardennes reveal www.gites-de-france-ardennes.com Tél. +33 (0)3 24 56 03 86 www.charleville-sedan-tourisme.fr themselves with or without ou +33 (0)6 82 17 13 57 that “s”. To help you, www.cdos-ardennes.fr the Ardennes cross-border ARDENNES FOOTHILLS tourist group has created Clévacances Ardennes TOURIST OFFICE the visitardenne.com web site. 24 place Ducale, BP 419 1 rue Cécilia Gazagnaire Thermes de Spa, Han caverns, 08107 Charleville-Mézières cedex Ardennes 08430 Launois-sur-Vence Orval Abbey, Durbuy… Tél. +33 (0)3 24 56 68 69 Tél. +33 (0)3 24 35 02 69 a plethora of ideas for tours www.clevacances.com Tourist Offices and stays are offered, organised www.cretespreardennaisestourisme.fr by key subjects: emblematic sites, essential destinations, Logis des Ardennes Ardennes experiences, 24 place Ducale, BP 419 UNION OF TOURIST ARDENNES VALLEYS key events, etc. 08107 Charleville-Mézières OFFICES AND AND PLATEAU TOURIST OFFICE Tél. +33 (0)3 24 56 68 69 INFORMATION OFFICES Rocroi www.logis-ardennes.com 26 route de Warnécourt 1 ter rue du Pavillon 08000 Prix - les - Mézières 08230 Rocroi PLUS POINTS Bienvenue Tél. +33 (0)6 76 38 17 92 Tél. +33 (0)3 24 54 20 06 à la Ferme [email protected] www.tourisme-valleesetplateaudardenne.com Chambre The ambassadors of the Ardennes have tested the d’Agriculture VAL D’ARDENNE Monthermé ground. From a gourmet visit 1 rue Jacquemart Templeux TOURIST OFFICE Place Jean-Baptiste Clément, BP 10 08013 Charleville-Mézières cedex 08800 Monthermé to a chocolate maker, to a Tél. +33 (0)3 24 56 89 40 GIVET Tél. +33 (0)3 24 54 46 73 sporting trek on the Godefroy www.ardennes.chambre-agriculture.fr 10 quai des Fours www.tourisme-valleesetplateaudardenne.com circuit or the Luxemburg 08600 Givet chateaux tour by motorhome, ARDENNES REGIONAL Tél . +33(0)3 24 42 92 42 they share their experience www.valdardennetourisme.com RETHEL REGION NATURE PARK TOURIST OFFICE with you. Emotions and good Maison du Parc VIREUX-WALLERAND 3 quai d’Orfeuil ideas guaranteed. route de Sécheval Place du Château 08300 Rethel 08150 Renwez 08320 Vireux-Wallerand Tél. +33 (0)3 24 38 54 56 www.visitardenne.com Tél. +33 (0)3 24 42 90 57 Tél . +33(0)3 24 42 92 42 ou +33 (0)6 07 67 03 03 www.parc-naturel-ardennes.fr www.valdardennetourisme.com www.sud-ardennes-tourisme.com

Prepare your next stay on

62 gb.ardennes.com Coming to PRACTICAL NOTES the Ardennes

CAR FURTHER INFORMATION gb.ardennes.com From Paris : Take A4 motorway, signposted Reims, then A34, signposted Charleville-Mézières. From Lille : Visit Follow signs to , , ardenne , Philippeville (N5/ E420), Rocroi (A304) and Char- leville-Mézières. From Sarrebruck : Follow signs to Luxembourg (E25 / E411) then from Libramont, to Sedan and Charleville- Mézières. From : Follow signs to , Liège, then to Luxembourg (E25), and Namur and Libramont (E411), then to Sedan and Charleville-Mézières. From Brussels and Amsterdam : Follow signs to Charleroi, Philippeville (N5/E420), Rocroi (A304) and Charleville-Mézières. From London, via : Follow signs to Reims (A26), then to CharlevilleMézières (A34).

Train

TGV Est Paris Charleville-Mézières 1hr40, 2 through trains daily

BOAT

From the North, via the Meuse. From the South, via Marne canal then Ardennes canal.

NEARBY AIRPORTS

Paris (Charles de Gaulle) Paris-Vatry Luxembourg (Findel) Brussels (Zaventem) Charleroi (Bruxelles-Sud)

THIS DOCUMENT WAS PRODUCED BY THE ARDENNES TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AGENCY IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE TOURIST OFFICES AND WITH THE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE OF THE DEPARTEMENT COUNCIL. DESPITE THE CARE TAKEN TO PRODUCE THIS MAGAZINE, ERRORS AND OVERSIGHTS WILL NO DOUBT APPEAR. MOREOVER, CHANGES MAY OCCUR FOR WHICH THE ARDENNES TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AGENCY CANNOT BE HELD RESPONSIBLE. THANK YOU IN ADVANCE FOR YOUR UNDERSTANDING. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY (P.3, P.17, P.52). 63 JOIN Tourism in Ardennes

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ARDENNES TOURISM DEVELOPMENT AGENCY 64 24 place Ducale • BP 419 • 08107 Charleville-Mézières cedex • France