The Ardennes Mountains, which give this region its name, stretch throughout Belgium, Germany and France. Its position has put it at the centre of many of Europe’s major conflicts through the centuries and the region has changed hands many times. The beautiful forest of Ardennes is one of the best reasons to visit the region.
Located in the far north-eastern corner of France, on the border with Belgium, the departement of Ardennes is one that many UK tourists pass by on their way to other, more well-known regions. Ardennes has plenty to offer visitors who do decide to stray off the beaten track, whether it’s the historic town of Charleville-Mezieres with its unusual cultural events, or the unspoilt Ardennes countryside and its numerous outdoor activities. No trip to the French Ardennes would be complete without sampling some of the local gastronomic specialities, particularly the pate that shares its name.
The main town of the Ardennes region is home to most of the cultural and historical attractions in the regions, including its impressive main square, the Place Ducale. Discover hidden architectural gems and churches as you wind your way through the medieval streets and you will also notice many references to the poet Rimbaud who was born here. The residents of Charleville-Mezieres are intensely proud of their famous son, and the tourist office even produce a map to enable you to visit all the sites related to his life and death.
Charleville-Mezieres is actually more famous for puppets than poetry, having hosted the World Puppetry Festival annually since the 1960s. Usually held each September, the event attracts over 100,000 puppeteers and fans of the art form each year. Children can take part in workshops or enjoy free performances in the town's streets, while famous names in the puppetry world perform for a fee in churches and theatres throughout the region.
The Ardennes' most popular attraction is undoubtedly the vast expanse of countryside found in the area. Walkers, cyclists and even those who prefer more exhilarating activities are well catered for in the area. The Trans-Ardennes Green Way is the best route for walkers or cyclists to explore the departement; an ancient towpath alongside the Meuse river that has been converted into a route suitable for walkers, horses and cyclists. If you feel up to the challenge, you could tackle the entire 80 kilometre length and get a good feel for the Ardennes in just a few days.
There are a number if equestrian centres in the Ardennes forest region, many of which arrange treks through some of the best scenery, often including a packed meal. If this is too slow and steady, there are also several water sport centres based along the area's many rivers, offering canoeing, kayaking and even white water rafting on certain stretches.
The Ardennes region is famous for its pate, which is now widely available in stores around the world. If you’re visiting the area, try and buy some made by a local farmer or from a market to really taste the difference.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Ardennes? Then below is a selection of gites in Ardennes and villas in Ardennes that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
