Exceptional wildlife
Many species can be observed all year round, especially during the migration periods and the winter. Look out for the snipes of the marshes or the Eurasian curlew who migrate in small groups from the end of the summer, while the lapwings wait for the ponds to be empty before arriving.
Not to mention the birds of prey: observe these black or red kites who fly over the forests in the migration period accompanied by the osprey, while the whooper swans briefly visit the mute swans, residents all year round.
When autumn comes, be startled by the cry of the deer which, along with its pack, furtively makes its way along the forest paths. At the heart of this wild region, with a mountain air, animals reign supreme and visitors are encouraged to be discreet in order to discover the mysteries.
A sanctuary of wild boar, deer and roe, the Argonne has been a hunting region for decades but also the paradise of fishermen who can make use of the many ponds in the region
Beaulieu-en-Argonne, a village in bloom
Perched on its hill, Beaulieu-en-Argonne is a small village of character with half-timbered houses, located in the hilly landscape of the Forest of Argonne. With an abundant elegance, this linear settlement typical of Lorraine distinguishes itself with its covering of plants and flowers, designed in a very natural landscaped style, which earned it the award of "4 flowers" under the Villages of Flowers scheme.
From the viewpoint indicator table, don’t miss the splendid view of the valley which offers an exceptional landscape blending nature and progress: the wind turbines put up here and there form the background of the view while in the foreground, the forests dotted with ponds are a reminder of the landscapes of Argonne.
Installed in a brick building,the abbey’s press room, open all year round, was in operation until the end of the 19th century. The south-south-west side was covered in vines; production ended with the phylloxera epidemic at the start of the 20th century. The press room is listed as a Historical Monument thanks to a personal intervention from President Poincaré in 1926. It is made up of a shaft and a counterweight, which weighs 30 tonnes and can handle 3000kg of grapes.
Not far from there, The Saint Rouin hermitage invites contemplation and serenity. A spiritual centre, a chapel was built in grey concrete with a cubic shape. The construction rests on stilts which are inspired by the theories of Le Corbusier. The rigorous geometry of the exterior is softened by the warm colours of the stained-glass windows designed by a Japanese artist, Kimie Bendo. On the days of pilgrimage, mass is celebrated outdoors, in the "cathedral of greenery" dominated by an altarpiece of the Assumption from the 18th century, all that remains of the Beaulieu church.
Art in Argonne
Departing from Evres-en-Argonne, head out to discover the Anes Art’Gonne site with its animal environment, its exhibition space and its various fair trade products. Have lunch in Beaulieu-en-Argonne: L’Austrasius or L’Hostellerie de l’abbaye will welcome you in an exceptional setting.
Before heading back out on your route, don’t miss the old press room, the gallery of the abbey and the splendid view of the valley. After having crossed the Argonne forest, meet at Lavoye to discover the "Large wash house" and the exhibition-sale of artistic artisanship. The route finishes in Waly at La Grange des Amateurs d’Art or the Exposition Peinture-Artisanat d’Art Dumain.
During your walk, don’t forget to stop in one of the two establishments for a meal or a night, or simply for a snack offered by the gallery of the abbey.