Explore the region

Explore the Region:

Tourism between Champagne, Ardennes and Thiérache

Ideally located at the crossroads of three departments ( Ardennes, Aisne, Marne ) and two regions, the Presbytery of Sévigny is the strategic base camp for exploring the treasures of the Grand Est and Hauts-de-France.

Whether you are a fan of medieval history, passionate about Champagne bubbles or in search of wide open green spaces, everything is accessible within an hour's drive of our guest house.

To make your planning easier, please note that we are located just 35 minutes from Laon , 40 minutes from Reims and 1 hour from Charleville-Mézières .

🏰 Thiérache: Land of Fortified Churches

Looking for culture, red bricks and rural heritage?

Delve into the unique history of Thiérache. Between the 13th and 18th centuries, this border region was the scene of numerous invasions. To survive, the inhabitants showed ingenuity by transforming their places of worship into veritable fortresses.

• The Discovery Circuit: Explore a unique route in France featuring more than sixty fortified churches, equipped with dungeons, turrets and arrow slits.

• Our favorite: The village of Parfondeval , listed among the "Most Beautiful Villages of France". Don't miss its Saint-Médard church and its magnificent red brick houses with slate roofs.

   

   

🥂 Reims: The City of Coronations and Champagne

Looking for something sparkling and prestigious within 40 minutes?

Reims is an essential stop to discover the French art of living and royal history.

• UNESCO Heritage: Let yourself be seduced by the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral of Reims (place of the coronation of the Kings of France), the Palais du Tau and the Basilica of Saint-Remi.
• Wine tourism: Visit the cellars (chalk cellars) of the major Champagne houses or meet independent winemakers for more intimate tastings.
• Unusual & Nature: Discover the Automobile Museum for mechanics enthusiasts, or take a walk in the Montagne de Reims to admire the mysterious Faux de Verzy , these twisted beech trees unique in the world.

⚔️ Aisne: Medieval Cities and History

Need to delve into French history?

The Aisne is a rich and little-known territory that is worth a visit for its architectural and historical heritage.

• Laon: Nicknamed the "Crowned Mountain", this perched medieval town offers a Gothic cathedral visible for miles, ramparts and fascinating underground passages.
• The Chemin des Dames: A vital memorial site of the First World War. Visit the Dragon's Cave to understand the lives of soldiers in the underground trenches.
• Guise: Visit its fortified castle, but above all the unique Familistère , a 19th-century social utopia that became an industrial and architectural reality.

🌿 The Ardennes: Wild Nature and Fortresses

Need a change of scenery, authenticity, and legends?

Head north towards the Ardennes, where the forest reigns supreme and history is omnipresent.

• Sedan: Travel back to the Middle Ages by visiting the largest fortified castle in Europe . An impressive visit for young and old.
• Charleville-Mézières: Stroll around the magnificent Place Ducale , an architectural gem of the 17th century (twin sister of the Place des Vosges), and walk in the footsteps of the poet Arthur Rimbaud .
• Meuse Valley: Green and winding landscapes perfect for walks in the fresh air, cycling (Trans-Ardennes Green Way) or hiking.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Your Excursions from Sévigny

1. What is the closest tourist town to the Presbytery?

You are in the immediate vicinity of the picturesque villages of the Thiérache region (Parfondeval). For larger cities, Laon (35 min) and Reims (40 min) are very easily accessible.

2. How long does it take to visit the Champagne cellars?

It takes about 40 minutes to reach Reims and its major Champagne houses (Pommery, Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, etc.) or the vineyards of the Montagne de Reims.

3. Is the Presbytery well located for heritage tourism?

Yes, we are ideally located for visiting the Chemin des Dames and the Caverne du Dragon in the Aisne. These essential Great War sites are easily accessible by car.

4. What is there to see in the Ardennes from the guest house?

You can reach Charleville-Mézières in 1 hour to see the Place Ducale and the Rimbaud Museum, or continue on to Sedan.to visit its immense fortified castle.

5. Where can we see the famous Faux de Verzy?

These unique trees are located in the Montagne de Reims forest, about 50 minutes from the Presbytery. It's a forest walk that's very popular with families and photographers.

6. Is it possible to visit fortified churches without a guide?

Yes, many churches in the Thiérache region are visible from the outside (their defensive architecture is impressive) and some are open to the public. Parfondeval is an excellent starting point.

7. What is the Familistère of Guise?

Located about 45 minutes away, it's a social palace built in the 19th century by the industrialist Godin for his workers. It's a unique site in the world, fascinating for its architecture and its human history.

8. What outdoor activities are available in the surrounding area?

The region is wonderfully suited to hiking and cycling. The Meuse Valley notably offers the Trans-Ardennes Green Way, a cycle path laid out along the river.

9. Do you have any documentation available on site for visits?

Absolutely! We share our "thousand ideas for visits" with our guests. We provide maps, brochures, and personalized advice to help you optimize your itineraries.

10. What do you recommend for a day out with children?

The Sedan Castle is a very immersive experience for children. The Familistère in Guise is also very fun. For nature lovers, a walk in Parfondeval or at the Faux de Verzy is ideal.