The Ardennes

Are you looking for the perfect destination for a memorable family vacation? Look no further! The Ardennes are the perfect place.

This magnificent region, nestled in the region Great Easton the border of the France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany, is characterized by its wooded plateaus, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys, where nature reigns supreme. Whether your passion is hiking, culture, or history—or whether you’re looking for thrills—the Ardennes have something to satisfy every taste.

This guide presents the must-do family activities in the Ardennes. You'll be amazed by the splendor and diversity of the natural landscapes, the region's rich cultural and historical heritage, and the many adventures and distractions that await you. Get ready to create lasting memories with your loved ones!

Discovering nature in the Ardennes

The Ardennes, a true paradise for nature lovers, offer a wide variety of activities, ranging from forest walks to water sports and hiking. This lush, green region is the perfect place to marvel at nature and recharge your batteries.

Explore the nature of the Ardennes with your family with these suggestions.

Forest walks: in search of flora and fauna

The majestic Ardennes Forest, one of the largest in Europe, is home to a rich and well-preserved array of flora and fauna. It invites you to discover deer, wild boars, foxes, squirrels, as well as various birds, mushrooms, and flowers.

Admire the ancient trees, the rocks shaped by erosion, the springs, and the streams. Numerous marked trails make it easy to explore. For a more enriching experience, consider taking a guided tour led by a nature guide who will share their passion and knowledge with you.

Vary the pleasures with horseback, bicycle or carriage rides.

Ardennes lakes: aquatic activities and relaxation

Boasting several man-made lakes, the Ardennes offer magnificent scenery and a range of leisure activities for the whole family. Enjoy swimming, pedal boating, canoeing, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing, water skiing or fishing.

Relax on the beaches, have a picnic, play volleyball, ping-pong or mini-golf. Not-to-be-missed lakes include Lac des Vieilles Forges, Lac de Bairon, Lac de Sedan and Lac du Der-Chantecoq.

Hiking: family-friendly tours

The Ardennes offer a variety of family-friendly hiking trails, allowing you to discover a wide range of landscapes. Cross country lanes, forest paths, greenways and historic routes.

Visit picturesque villages, castles, churches, museums and remarkable natural sites. Select the length, difficulty and theme of your hike to suit your preferences and abilities.

Maps and guides are available from tourist offices or online. For a more in-depth exploration, enlist the help of a guide to reveal the secrets and anecdotes of the region.

Heritage and culture for young and old

The Ardennes, a region of Europe with a rich and eventful history, have been the scene of many significant events, from the Hundred Years' War to World War II. They have also been the birthplace or refuge of illustrious figures such as the poet Arthur Rimbaud and the monk Jean Mabillon. As such, the Ardennes offer a rich cultural heritage to discover and share with the whole family.

Check out a few suggestions below for exploring the history and culture of the Ardennes.

Sedan Castle: a journey through time

The Sedan Castle, the largest in Europe with an area of 35,000 m², was built between the 15th and 17th centuries. It served as the seat of the Principality of Sedan, an independent state until 1642. A visit to the Sedan Castle takes you back in time thanks to its furnished and decorated rooms, exhibitions, activities, shows, and workshops.

You can also enjoy the panoramic view of the city and the Meuse Valley from its ramparts. The Sedan Castle is a must-see for history and heritage enthusiasts.

In the footsteps of Rimbaud in Charleville-Mézières

Arthur Rimbaud, the most famous poet from the Ardennes, was born in Charleville in 1854 and spent part of his youth there. He left behind masterpieces of French poetry, such as *Le Bateau ivre*, *Une saison en enfer*, and *Les Illuminations*. In Charleville-Mézières, follow in Rimbaud’s footsteps by visiting his birthplace—now a museum—by taking the Rimbaud walking tour, which leads you to the key sites of his life, or by attending the Rimbaud Film Festival, which celebrates the poet and his work.

Fun tour of the War and Peace Museum

The War and Peace Museum, dedicated to the three world conflicts that left their mark on the Ardennes (the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, World War I, and World War II), displays an impressive collection of more than 14,000 artifacts, including weapons, uniforms, vehicles, documents, photographs, and eyewitness accounts. The museum offers a fun and interactive experience through touchscreens, videos, sound and light displays, and also features workshops, games, activities, and special events. The War and Peace Museum is a place of remembrance and education, inviting visitors to discover the history of the Ardennes and the world.

Family fun and adventure in the Ardennes

The Ardennes, a European region, is the ideal playground for family adventure and leisure. Whether you're looking for thrills, moments of complicity or challenges to overcome together, the Ardennes promise memorable experiences for the whole family.

Explore a few suggestions for making the most of your family holiday in the Ardennes.

Amusement and Theme Parks: A World of Thrills

The Ardennes are home to many amusement and recreation parks that will appeal to both children and adults. Rides, slides, trampolines, go-karting, mini-golf, bowling, laser tag, movie theaters, and video games are just a few of the activities on offer.

Renowned parks such as Nigloland, Terraltitude, Argonne Découverte, Reine Fabiola, and Chlorophylle await you for a day or weekend of relaxation and family fun.

Equestrian activities: pony or horse rides

The Ardennes offer an ideal setting for family equestrian activities. Enjoy pony or horse rides in the countryside, guided by professionals.

Discover the landscapes, wildlife, and flora of the Ardennes on horseback. Try your hand at horseback riding, carriage driving, or dressage, or take part in equestrian workshops or trail rides.

Equestrian centers such as La Marfée, Le Pays de Bouillon, Le Val d’Omignon, and La Croix Scaille offer experiences that foster a bond and shared enjoyment with horses and ponies.

Tree-top adventure course: Conquering the Ardennes treetops

With their majestic forests, the Ardennes invite you to embark on an adventure high in the treetops through tree-top adventure courses. This activity, which involves moving from tree to tree using ropes, zip lines, rope bridges, nets, or footbridges, offers a unique perspective on nature.

Choose a course suited to your age, level and desires to test your balance, agility and courage.

Sites such as Ardenne Aventure, Aventure Parc Wavre, Forestia and Cap Nature offer fun and stimulating family activities.

Département des Ardennes - Conclusion

Explore the Ardennes, the perfect European destination for a memorable family vacation. This region invites you to discover its lush natural beauty, rich heritage, and vibrant culture, as well as the many adventure and recreational activities available. Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, experience thrills, or share unique moments, the Ardennes will meet all your expectations.

Don't delay, plan your Ardennes getaway now! You won't be disappointed. Visit the official Ardennes tourism website for all the information you need, accommodation, activities, special events and tips for a successful trip.

For personalized advice, please feel free to contact us by phone, email, or chat. Our team is dedicated to providing you with attentive service to ensure unforgettable family experiences in the Ardennes.

Ardennes - FAQ

What's the most beautiful corner of the Ardennes?

The Ardennes are known for their diverse landscapes, heritage, and cultures, making it difficult to single out a «most beautiful spot.» However, certain places stand out:

• GivetA picturesque village with the Charlemont citadel overlooking the Meuse and surrounding hills.
• Sedan, a historic city home to Europe's largest fortified castle, a symbol of the Ardennes' strategic importance throughout history.
• Ardennes Regional Nature ParkA haven of nature with exceptional sites such as Rocroi, Lac des Vieilles-Forges, and the Roc la Tour viewpoint at Monthermé.
• Charleville-Mézières, the capital of the Ardennes and the birthplace of Arthur Rimbaud, proud of its Renaissance-style ducal palace and a museum dedicated to the poet.

What are the major towns in the Ardennes?

The Ardennes' major urban centers are Charleville-Mézières and Sedan. Next come other major cities such as Rethel, Givet, Revin, Nouzonville, Bogny-sur-Meuseand Vouziers.

Why do we say the Belgian Ardennes?

The term «Belgian Ardennes» refers to the portion of the Ardennes located in Belgium, a region of low and medium-height mountains. «The Ardennes» refers both to this geographic region and to the corresponding French administrative subdivisions.

What is the number of the Ardennes department?

The Ardennes department is numbered 08. It is part of the Grand Est region, with Charleville-Mézières as its prefecture.