TOURIST ACTIVITIES

Discover many tourist activities near Boult-aux-Bois and explore the wonders of the region with emblematic sites located near the estate (listed in order of proximity to your gîte).

Paid tourist activities are indicated by the logo: [€]

The times indicated correspond to a journey by car.

PLEASE NOTE: Not all of these tourist sites are open all year round, at all times!

It is your responsibility to check the opening days and times prior to your visit, by consulting their websites, the addresses of which we have provided to you (below).

1. ARTISTIC TRAIL [FREE] ( 5 min walk )

► Located in the heart of BOULT-AUX-BOIS, along a path that connects the two parts of the village, spanning the stream ( Le Barosset ) that separates them, the Artistic Trail is an invitation to take a walk where art and nature meet harmoniously. This unique route takes you to discover original works of art, installed outdoors in the preserved landscapes of the Ardennes.

At the end of this route, at the entrance to the second part of the village, by turning left you can easily reach the cow path which will open the doors to the vast forest of Boult-aux-Bois.

https://maps.app.goo.gl/2ESrHN9duXu8M6R97 (starting point of the artistic route)

Contrary to appearances, this is not a private road but a public road!

2. BOULT-AUX-BOIS STATE FOREST [FREE] ( 10 min walk )

► Immerse yourself in nature – with friends or family – by exploring (on foot or by mountain bike) the vast Boult-aux-Bois forest (3,300 hectares, or 33 km², of freely accessible state forest!), discovering its history and its well-kept secrets (the Templar markers, the charcoal burners' fire places, and the site of the majestic "Big oak tree"" disappeared on November 27, 2023 after having lived almost 500 years), the beauty of its many wooded trails, its charming pond of ""la Linette"" (GPS point indicated in the link below) where you can stop for a picnic while listening to the birds singing and breathing pure air.

You can get there on foot from the Chemin des vaches (GPS coordinates below) or by car from the many paths and trails accessible from the national road towards Vouziers (including the Chemin du Gros Chêne and the Route du Mariage, whose GPS coordinates you will find below).

Finally, you may also want to explore nature a little without straying too far from the village, in which case the walks on the Chemin de la prairie and the Chemin des bons prés are made for you (GPS coordinates of the access points, below).

https://www.visorando.com/randonnee-de-boult-aux-bois-a-la-croix-aux-bois-en

https://www.ardennes.com/randonnee/sentier-de-la-linette

https://maps.app.goo.gl/rcYHXSSXL6xvdsAa8 (location of Chemin des vaches: entrance to the forest towards the Gros Chêne site)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/xCyAp2ddJRz9K4Jj8 (location of the Etang de la Linette, free parking nearby)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/2Yyp5Nny6Hm1WUCY9 (location of the Gros chêne site, now on land)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/tUyzRrc7VMS3L6vy7 (Prairie Road)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/RsfDGEakdg8Gzinn9 (Path of the good meadows)

3. ARGONNE DISCOVERY ANIMAL PARK [ € ] (accessible in 10 min )

► Also visit the Argonne Discovery Park in OLIZY-PRIMAT (08250) 946 Rd Bois de Roucy where, in a unique adventure in the heart of nature, you can observe up close the majestic pack of European grey wolves and the curious raccoons, among many other animals (arctic wolves, bats, Ouessant sheep, Shetland ponies, Ardennes red turkey, etc.), you will attend demonstrations of nocturnal and diurnal birds of prey, and where you can take part in captivating educational activities.

Between two activities and a walk, the park also offers picnic areas, a restaurant and great outdoor games. We challenge you to resist the new bouncing hammock which is now equipped with many play areas, a zip line, a tree house and slides that reach 15 meters high.

Something to delight young and old alike!

https://www.parc-argonne-decouverte.fr

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M7qHP7HeMxA&t=1s (short presentation video)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/QtmenYXYg4ZagoeNA (location of free parking)

4. LA SAMARITAINE POND [FREE] (accessible in 10 min )

► Come and enjoy a day of relaxation and nature at the Samaritaine pond in BUZANCY (08240) 3 allée des Etangs , where you can park in a car park (free) at the GPS point whose link you will find below.

In its green setting, this 700m long body of water is equipped with a pontoon. Swimming is permitted, it is supervised by lifeguards every afternoon in the summer season.

You can also enjoy a beach volleyball area and a playground that will delight the little ones, as well as good fast food (in summer) at the nearby campsite refreshment bar!

https://www.ardennes.com/patrimoine-naturel/plan-deau-letang-de-la-samaritaine

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ndxoCCUqmqUy1Cd56 (location of free parking)

5.BEAVER TRAIL [FREE] (accessible in 8 to 10 min )

► Explore the beaver trail who walks around the gravel pits of Bar-lès-Buzancy in Harricourt , where you can park in a car park (free) at the GPS point whose link you will find below. The purpose of these very recent bodies of water (born from the extraction of sand and gravel) is now to safeguard the animal and plant species linked to wetlands: birds, insects, amphibians and mammals find ideal biological conditions here, like the newcomer beaver, emblematic of the sand pits.

https://www.visorando.com/randonnee-le-sentier-des-castors-autour-des-gravie

https://maps.app.goo.gl/jTny4K8c8UAiWUHQ9 (location of free parking, from Harricourt)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/ndxoCCUqmqUy1Cd56(location of free parking, from Bar-lès-Buzancy)

6. TRANS-ARDENNES GREENWAY [FREE] (accessible in 13 min )

► Escape, on foot or by bike, on the Trans-Ardennes Green Route from VOUZIERS (08240), rue Taine , where you can park (at the start indicated at the GPS point, the link to which you will find below), a network of exceptional 130 km cycle paths along the banks of the Meuse. Ideal for cycling, hiking or family walks, this greenway offers breathtaking landscapes, between lush forests and picturesque villages. Discover the beauty of the Ardennes at your own pace, in a safe and peaceful setting. An unforgettable adventure awaits you on this emblematic route, ideal for relaxation and natural discoveries.

https://www.cd08.fr/les-ardennes/les-ardennes-touristiques/la-voie-verte-trans-ardennes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RLy3UofbABA (official video presentation of the greenway)

https://sig.cd08.fr/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=e14968c6f3da4a7287654e8ccc7e3ecc

( interactive map of the entire Trans-Ardennes Greenway network)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmfM6wJXq9B5MHpG7 (location of the starting point of the Greenway from VOUZIERS)

7. CINEMA & CULTURAL CENTER ""LES TOURELLES"" [ € ] (accessible in 15 min )

► Come and relax at the ""Les Tourelles"" Cultural Center, located in VOUZIERS (08240) 6, rue Henrionnet , where you can enjoy a varied program, including cinema screenings, live shows and cultural events for all ages.

On the program:

A modern cinema: Enjoy recent films in a comfortable and well-equipped room.

Live shows: Theater, dance, concerts and comedy punctuate the cultural season, highlighting local, national and international artists.

Events for everyone: Workshops, conferences, exhibitions and festivals, to feed your curiosity and share moments with family or friends.

https://www.lestourellesvouziers.com

https://www.lestourellesvouziers.com/cinema (films showing)

8. ARGONA AQUATIC COMPLEX [ € ] (accessible in 17 min )

► The ARGONA Aquatic Center, in VOUZIERS (08240) 11 rue Charles Devendeville, Chemin de Syrienne , invites you to enjoy a modern and friendly swimming area. With its large 25-meter pool with 5 lanes, swimming enthusiasts can swim lengths, while the paddling pool will welcome young and old for moments of play or learning with the family.

On the relaxation side, the wellness area promises a relaxing break with its sauna, hammam and whirlpool bath.

The more athletic among you will be able to enjoy a 100 m² cardio-training area, perfect for working out and taking on new challenges.

An ideal place to combine sport, relaxation and family leisure!

https://www.piscine-argona.fr

https://maps.app.goo.gl/VzeTvrojPHX7diL2A (GPS coordinates of the parking lot)

9. LAC DE BAIRON [FREE] (accessible in 17 min )

► Treat yourself to a relaxing day on the shores of the peaceful waters of Lake Bairon , on the D 312 (with a large free car park whose GPS coordinates are given to you via the link below), a natural gem where wild nature blends with tranquility.

Swimming, water activities (for a fee), hiking trails along the two lakes (the new and the old) and family picnics (lots of games for children): everything you need to have a great time!

https://www.cd08.fr/lac-de-bairon

https://maps.app.goo.gl/nJxgjEvVBAbpe5E26 (location of free parking)

10. BUNGE JUMPING [ € ] (accessible in 20 min )

► Discover the Grand Frisson at the Ariéthal Viaduct, near the village of EXERMONT (08250) (at the location whose GPS coordinates are given to you in the link below)!

Suspended in the heart of a green valley, this former military railway structure (built from 1932 to 1934 to supply the Maginot Line) offers an exceptional natural setting and a jump height of 40 meters.

Please check prices and availability in advance (only once a month and during the summer season) on the ADRELAINE ELASTIQUE website:

https://www.adrenaline-elastique.com/exermont.html

https://maps.app.goo.gl/N2wRJRLZT9gdCq6a9 (location of the viaduct)

11. MUSEUM OF THE 2 WORLD WARS [FREE] (accessible in 20 min )

► IN CHAGNY (08430) Haut de Chagny (at the location whose GPS coordinates are indicated to you by the link below), Mr. Warnnesson, passionate and collector since his youngest age, welcomes you to his Museum of the Two World Wars to present its collection of private objects relating to the two world wars, as well as the Algerian and Indochina wars.

From military vehicles to uniforms, including soldiers' everyday objects, you will discover the daily history of soldiers and that of the wars which have scarred the Ardennes soil three times.

It is a collection of more than 50,000 objects that awaits you.

Free entry, all year round, reservation by email or telephone.

https://www.ardennes.com/patrimoine-culturel/le-musee-des-deux-guerres-mondiales

https://maps.app.goo.gl/1ZE7fqmYqUDGmfoR9 (location of the museum of the two world wars)

12. HOUSE OF THE BATTLE OF STONNE [ € ] (accessible in 21 min )

►The Maison de la bataille de Stonne, located in the emblematic village of STONNE (08390), in the center of the village , near a B1 bis tank , invites you to discover a space dedicated to the memory of the Battle of Stonne, a key moment of the Second World War.

Sometimes referred to as the "Verdun of 1940", this battle which pitted Germans against French from May 15, 1940 to May 27, 1940, was one of the most important battles of the Western Campaign. These clashes to gain control of the village caused heavy human losses.

Immerse yourself in the story of this significant battle of May 1940, through immersive exhibitions that retrace the strategic and human events of this battle, the memory of the soldiers and local inhabitants caught up in the turmoil of war.

An animated map, created specifically for this museum with the invaluable help of historians, traces the course of the battle in detail and allows us to fully understand the issues at stake.

You will also discover authentic objects (uniforms, weapons, etc.), poignant testimonies and photographs that tell the story.

A remarkable place of memory, to visit with family, friends, or school groups.

https://www.ardennes.com/cultural-heritage/house-of-the-battle-of-stonne/#prices

https://maps.app.goo.gl/cEJJCCqP6rGdSG4c6 (GPS location)

13. GOLF [ € ] (accessible in 28 min )

► Want to play golf in an exceptional natural setting?

Discover the Golf des Poursaudes, located in VILLERS LE TILLEUL (08430) Villers-le-Tilleul, Les Poursaudes, Route d'omont , a place where sport, relaxation and conviviality meet, in a green and peaceful environment in the heart of the Ardennes. Technical, varied and perfectly maintained, the 18-hole course, Par 72, 5879 meters, of which you will appreciate the quality of the fairways and the speed of the greens, takes remarkable advantage of the slopes, woods and plains as well as natural water obstacles and offers a challenge adapted to all levels, from beginners to experienced players. Modern facilities: Practice, putting green, training area and warm clubhouse to relax after your game. Golf courses and training, with experienced teachers. Events and competitions: Take part in tournaments and experience unique moments with other enthusiasts. Rental and shop: Equip yourself on site with quality equipment.

https://golfdespoursaudes.com

https://maps.app.goo.gl/8LKPsNrQEmdDJLFK8 (location of the Poursaudes Golf Course)

14. BEER MUSEUM [ € ] (accessible in 28 min )

► Immerse yourself in the history and secrets of beer making by visiting the famous Stenay Beer Museum, located in STENAY (55700) 17 rue du Moulin , between Sedan and the Verdun memorial sites. An original experience, which you can enjoy through an educational and fun tour that stimulates sight, taste, smell, touch and hearing.

On the program: discovery of the history of the building; complete immersion in the world of brewing through the discovery of ancient brewing techniques, interactive exhibitions and anecdotes on the evolution of beer through the ages (more than 55,000 objects to discover).

The highlight of the museum, the room dedicated to advertising and posters, reveals how advertising art was put to the service of brewers.

The visit will end at the tavern, with a tasting of local beers in a warm setting (with a choice of 70 craft and industrial beers, to take away or consume on site), all in moderation!

https://museedelabiere.com/taverne-du-musee/nos-bieres

https://musees-meuse.fr/musees/musee-de-la-biere-stenay

15. DOMAINE DE VENDRESSE [ € ] (accessible in 30 min )

► Come and discover the Domaine de Vendresse in VENDRESSE (08160) 11 rue du Haut-Fourneau, with a large free car park whose contact details are given to you in the link below, its green and bucolic park where history and nature meet, with its magnificent gardens, its pond and its impressive old foundry transformed into a tourist site, whose sound and light show will allow you to rediscover the fascinating history!

Children will be amazed by the playgrounds and the aquarium, while adults will enjoy the shaded paths and the peaceful atmosphere. Ideal for an outing with family or friends.

https://www.domaine-de-vendresse.fr

https://www.facebook.com/DomaineDeVendresse?fref=ts

https://maps.app.goo.gl/r8rdVcyFzbVHBUGGA (location of free parking)

16. FORT DE LA FERTÉ (MAGINOT LINE) [ € ] (accessible in 39 min )

► Visit the Fort de la Ferté (Villy-La Ferté site), near La Ferté-sur-Chiers (08370) , at the location indicated by the GPS point (below), a place steeped in history located in the heart of the Ardennes, near the Franco-Belgian border.

This emblematic site, an integral part of the famous Maginot Line, bears witness to the heroic battles of May 1940.

Through an immersive journey, with the exploration of underground galleries, casemates and military installations – faithfully preserved or restored – you will relive, with great emotion, the poignant story of the battles of the 107 French soldiers who heroically resisted enemy attacks, before falling to defend France.

Passionate guides will accompany you to help you relive this significant chapter in French military history.

A complete exhibition awaits you at the entrance to the site, where you will discover historical objects (weapons, uniforms, dishes, utensils and various equipment found in the fort), as well as authentic testimonies to better understand the daily life of the soldiers.

Fort de la Ferté awaits you for a unique visit, between emotion and discovery.

https://www.ouvragelaferte.fr

https://fr-fr.facebook.com/travaildelaferte

https://maps.app.goo.gl/F1mQmcByTZraeoZs8 (location of Fort de la Ferté)

17. SEDAN FORTIFIED CASTLE [ € ] (accessible in 42 min )

► Immerse yourself in history by visiting the majestic Sedan fortified castle, in SEDAN (08200) Place du Château , which has the rare privilege of being both the largest fortified castle in Europe and the favorite monument of the French!

Wander through its grandiose halls, explore its ramparts and let yourself be transported by centuries of adventures and legends.

Discover captivating reconstructions and exhibitions that will thrill young and old alike.

Temporary exhibitions are regularly organized there (like those, at the end of 2023, on the theme of Harry Potter and Narnia): don't hesitate to find out more!

A memorable experience in the heart of the Ardennes, where past and wonder meet.

https://www.chateau-fort-sedan.fr

https://maps.app.goo.gl/VRd6F6UMLJvPLse77 (location of the free parking lot at Place du Chateau)

https://maps.app.goo.gl/cJTMSYPwmJWuBEfW7 (location of the free parking lot at Place d'Alsace-Lorraine)

18. WAR AND PEACE MUSEUM [ € ] (accessible in 44 min )

► Located in Novion-Porcien (08270) 2 Impasse du Musée, the War and Peace Museum in the Ardennes offers you a captivating journey through the history of conflicts in the Ardennes, an essential stop for all history enthusiasts, which will take you on a journey through the history that shaped contemporary Europe, through the key moments of the three major conflicts that marked the Ardennes (the Ardennes were entirely occupied on three occasions): 1870, 1914-1918, and 1940-1944.

You can admire an exceptional collection of uniforms, weapons, vehicles, photographs, and objects from the daily lives of soldiers and civilians.

You will also discover realistic reconstructions and modern multimedia supports for a captivating and educational experience.

All audiences. Not to be missed!

https://www.guerreetpaix.fr

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BoIDt46YnKk&t=10s (short presentation video)

19. *** LA CHAPELLE SKI RESORT *** [€] (accessible in 44 min )

► Are you more of a cross-country skier , sledder or snowshoeer ?

As soon as the snow starts to appear again, come and enjoy, with family or friends, the most beautiful cross-country skiing spot in the French Ardennes, across the five trails that make up the family ski resort of La Chapelle Cross-Country (please use the link below to get to your destination: be careful, Mappy will send you very far from here, to the wrong destination!) !

With its 35 kilometers of pleasant and marked trails , in the Sedan national forest, there is something for everyone: from the yellow trail to the black trail, including of course the green, blue and red!

Even walkers are not forgotten with the two 5 and 7 kilometre trails crossing the national forest!

Who has never loved going sledding or building their own snowman when they were little? The smallest ditch immediately became the descent of the moment that you absolutely had to not miss! The Cross-Country Skiing Association of La Chapelle has understood this well! This is why a complete track is dedicated to the practice of sledding for our cherubs but also, it must be admitted, for our greatest happiness as big children!

And the most athletic among us are not forgotten either! The red run, 8 kilometers long, and the black run, 15 kilometers long, have plenty of surprises in store for the bravest!

The cross-country ski center has nearly 400 pairs of cross-country skis available to skiers for rental and your ID!

https://www.charleville-sedan-tourisme.fr/actus/nature/le-ski-de-fond-de-la-chapelle

https://www.ardennes.com/activite-sportive/ski-de-fond-la-chapelle

Locations, navigation and traffic (GPS location of the La Chapelle Cross-Country Ski Center)

20. CASINO [€] *** FROM END 2026 (exact date to be determined)! *** (accessible in 46 min )

► The future casino in Sedan, in the Ardennes, is scheduled to open its doors at the end of 2026.

In the top 10 French casinos (out of more than 200), this large complex of 5,000 to 6,000 m² which will offer table games, slot machines, and other services such as a restaurant, should attract between 250,000 and 500,000 visitors per year!

21. BOUILLON CASTLE [€] (accessible in 50 min )

► Discover the beautiful Belgian town of BOUILLON (6830) and its Fortified Castle, 5 Esplanade Godefroi de Bouillon : a dive into the heart of the Middle Ages!

Located in the heart of the Belgian Ardennes, the town of Bouillon invites you on a journey through time and nature. Dominated by its imposing fortified castle, one of the oldest and best preserved in Belgium, Bouillon is an unmissable destination for lovers of history, enchanting landscapes and adventure.

Bouillon Castle: Delve into the fascinating history of this 8th-century Medieval Jewel, known as the home of Godfrey of Bouillon, an iconic figure of the First Crusade. Explore its secret passages, vast halls and towers offering breathtaking views of the Semois Valley.

On the program: falconry shows, where birds of prey fly majestically over the castle, guided tours to uncover the mysteries of medieval architecture, and historical events, perfect for families and enthusiasts.

After your visit to the castle, stroll through the picturesque streets of Bouillon. Discover: the banks of the Semois, ideal for a romantic stroll or a relaxing break, the local gastronomy, with its specialties such as Ardennes trout or craft beers, the Ducal museum, to enrich your knowledge of the region's past.

Bouillon is also a paradise for nature lovers: explore the hiking trails through the Ardennes forests, enjoy the Semois for activities such as kayaking or paddleboarding.

https://www.paysdebouillon.be

https://chateaufortdebouillon.ellohaweb.com

22. ABBEY OF NOTRE-DAME D'ORVAL [€] (accessible in 52 min )

► Immerse yourself in the serenity and splendor of Orval Abbey, an emblematic place in Belgium located in the heart of the Gaume Valley, a Haven of Peace in the Heart of Nature, and come and taste the Famous Beer and the delicious Orval Cheese!

Orval Abbey, located in Belgium in FLORENVILLE (6823) 3 Orval , is world-renowned for its Trappist beer, brewed with passion according to a centuries-old tradition. During your visit, enjoy a tasting in the surrounding area to savor this exceptional beer, accompanied by delicious Orval cheese, made using traditional methods.

Founded in the 12th century, this Cistercian abbey, still inhabited by a community of monks, is famous for its architectural beauty, its fascinating history and its unique brewing tradition.

As you explore this enchanting site, you will be transported into a world of contemplation and peace, where nature and architecture blend harmoniously.

An interactive exhibition reveals the daily life of the monks and the secrets of making their famous beer.

Surrounded by lush forests, the abbey is the ideal starting point for walks in a green and revitalizing setting. A unique opportunity to combine culture, spirituality and nature.

23. LAC DES VIEILLES FORGES [ € ] (accessible in 1 hour )

► Nestled in the heart of a 1,000-hectare forest area, the Vieilles-Forges lake (150 hectares),LES MASURES (08500) Route départementale 40e, is the ideal place to relax and recharge your batteries, or to try out a wide variety of water sports (for a fee): swimming, pedal boats, kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, windsurfing, etc.

The site is also ideal for all nature lovers who will be able to discover the richness of the local biodiversity.

Around the beach, picnic and barbecue areas, snack bars and ice cream parlors invite you to eat.

https://www.cd08.fr/les-ardennes/les-ardennes-touristiques/les-lacs-des-ardennes/le-lac-des-vieilles-forges

24. REIMS CATHEDRAL [FREE] (accessible in 1H10 )

► REIMS, the only French city classified among the ""destinations worth the detour"".

Beyond Paris, the city of Reims is increasingly establishing itself as a leading tourist destination. A craze confirmed by the Horizons report which reveals the trends for the year 2025. According to research carried out around the world, the capital of the Marne is among the new trendy places, alongside seaside resorts in Mexico or Thailand!

Visit the majestic Reims Cathedral : a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with its incredible stained glass windows (with modern creations by Marc Chagall alongside medieval works) and detailed sculptures across its entire façade, and a treasure of French history: this exceptional monument was the scene of the coronation of 33 kings of France!

The Notre-Dame Cathedral of Reims, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-see for all lovers of history, art and spirituality.

In summer, don't miss the ""Rêve de Couleurs"" night show, which enhances the cathedral!

25. CHAMPAGNE CELLARS [ € ]

► CHAMPAGNE G.-H. MUMM & CIE , in REIMS (51100) 34, rue du Champ de Mars

(accessible in 1 hour 15 minutes) :

Stretching over nearly 25 km beneath the city of Reims, the cellars of Maison Mumm contain nearly two centuries of history, know-how and passion. In 1876, Georges Hermann Mumm, a bold visionary, decided to adorn his Brut cuvée with the famous red ribbon, a symbol of excellence. Since then, the House has tirelessly perfected its art, enhancing its signature grape variety, Pinot Noir, to offer exceptional champagnes. This unique heritage is revealed through an unforgettable guided tour, rich in discoveries and emotions (visit and tastings).

► CHAMPAGNE MERCIER , in EPERNAY (51200) 68-70 avenue de champagne

(accessible in 1H30 ):

Board a small train to explore part of the 18 km of caves, before returning to the surface thanks to a panoramic elevator.

After the audio-guided tour, it's time for the tasting!

Depending on the formula chosen, you will have the opportunity to savor several emblematic vintages from their range: Mercier Brut, Brut Rosé, Blanc de Noirs, Réserve, as well as their 2002, 2006 and 2010 vintages.

A sparkling and friendly experience to enjoy with the family – because in Champagne, there is no age limit for being amazed and learning!

For more information or to book your stay, do not hesitate to contact us.