Lush landscapes to get lost in, forest trails to follow, rivers to cruise and lively lakes in which to make a splash... With its great variety of terrain, the French Ardennes are made for open-air action. In the west of the region lies the delightful open, empty countryside of the Thiérache, whose fortified village churches wear slatefaced towers like snoods.
This is paradise for walkers and mountain bikers, as are the voluptuous hills in the centre, the Ardennes Foothills, their crests patched with copses, and crevices hiding rustic hamlets. In the south-west, flat expanses of wheatfields blend into neighbouring champagne country, while in the wilder south-east, the ancient forest of Argonne, a wonderful conservation area, invites explorers on foot or horseback. Here too Lac de Bairon offers excellent facilities for water sports and other leisure options.
To the north of Charleville-Mézières, the
Meuse and Semoy rivers cut through steep, wooded hills. It's hard to decide whether the views are better from above, by the waterside or on the river itself. Hiring a small cruiser or canoeing these soothing, deep waters is a totally unwinding experience, while walkers and riders can take to the higher ground. There are four GR paths for serious hikers, while many areas plot shorter, less demanding circuits to help strollers discover the best of the immediate surroundings. All you have to do is ask local tourist offices for their own hiking guides or Topoguides, and there's the Balades booklet from the French Ardennes Tourist Board (see opposite).
Near Renwez is the impressively equipped lake resort of Vieilles Forges. It has sailing, canoeing, windsurfing, a swimming pool, horse riding and bike hire as well as good camping and chalet accommodation. Even Charleville-Mézières, the département's capital, now boasts a big leisure centre on the Meuse close to the city's historic heart.
Marne
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Discovery of Epernay in the Champagne Region
A charming journey in epernay. This pretty town is located between the Marne river and the hills, at the junction of the 'Tourist Routes of Champagne' which traverse these famous vineyards. Epernay is surrounded by these sloping vineyards and is the heart of the 30, 000 hectares...
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Destination:
Ardennes
