The Meuse, an authentic escape in the heart of the Grand Est region
Just an hour by TGV from Paris or Strasbourg, and a stone's throw from major cities such as Nancy, Metz, Reims or Luxembourg, the Meuse promises a destination that's both accessible and out of the ordinary. Here, there's no need to go far to take a break, whether for a weekend or a longer stay.
History buffs will be thrilled by Verdun's memorial sites, while lovers of wide open spaces will be delighted by the deep forests of the Argonne or the trails of the Lorraine Regional Nature Park. Art and architecture enthusiasts will be won over by the Petites Cités de Caractère® (Small Towns of Character) such as Saint-Mihiel and Marville, or by the Renaissance grace of Bar-le-Duc, classified as a Town of Art and History. Cycling enthusiasts, whether leisurely or sporty, can follow the peaceful course of the river on the international route of the Meuse à Vélo - EuroVelo 19, or tackle the more demanding mountain bike and road circuits. As for the epicureans, they can enhance their stay with gourmet breaks featuring madeleines from Commercy, dragées from Verdun, Brie from Meuse, or a tasting of IGP Côtes de Meuse and IGP Lorraine wines, not forgetting craft beer (to be enjoyed in moderation, of course!).
At the heart of the Grand Est region, the destination boasts an unsuspected wealth of cultural discoveries and landscapes ideal for leisure and relaxation... Here, every diversions holds a surprise, every encounter turns into a memory, and every landscape invites contemplation. Here's a round-up of 10 unforgettable experiences in the Meuse.
1. Immerse yourself in history in Verdun
In the heart of the Forêt d'exception® battlefield forest, follow in the footsteps of the soldiers of the Great War. From the raw emotion of the Douaumont Ossuary to the awe-inspiring visit to a fort, each memorial site - 12 of which in the Meuse are listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO as part of the transnational series "First World War memorial and burial sites (Western Front)" - tells a page in our history - tells the story of a page in our history. On foot or by bike, on your own or in the company of an enthusiastic guide or an ONF agent for an environmental approach, follow the signposted paths through destroyed villages, trenches and monuments. Then descend into the galleries of the underground Citadelle of Verdun to relive the daily life of the poilus at a human level, thanks to an augmented reality system. In the evening, let yourself be overwhelmed by the summer event Des Flammes à la Lumière, a grandiose open-air son et lumière show, or throughout the year by the rich cultural programme of the Verdun Memorial, with its interactive museography bearing witness to the experiences of French and German soldiers on the Verdun battlefield.
Read more: Verdun, a poignant visit steeped in history
2. What to do in the Meuse? Recharge your batteries at Lac de Madine
A veritable inland sea, Lac de Madine is the largest lake in Lorraine, a haven of relaxation and leisure. Swimming, sailing, paddling, fishing or cycling: there's something for everyone. Nature lovers will particularly appreciate the birdwatching outings, guided by enthusiasts. From the top of the Montsec Memorial, built by the Americans after the Great War, the panorama of the lake and the rolling countryside of the Lorraine Regional Nature Park is magnificent.
3. Escape along the River Meuse
Gentle and peaceful, the Meuse offers an amazing route for a sporting adventure accessible by bike. Take EuroVelo 19, a cycle route that follows the course of the river through lush green valleys, picturesque villages and pastoral landscapes. In Verdun, the lively terraces on the Quai de Londres are ideal for a gourmet break or an open-air concert.
Read more: Top 11 cycling itineraries for the whole family in France
For an even closer immersion in nature, let yourself be carried along by the current in a canoe and take advantage of the small wild beaches to enjoy a picnic with local flavours.
4. What to do in the Meuse? Marvel with Vent des Forêts
In the centre of the Meuse département, Vent des Forêts offers a unique experience: 45 km of trails dotted with over a hundred contemporary works, created in the heart of nature by artists from all over the world. Monumental sculptures, poetic installations or unusual works of art: art in dialogue with the forest, renewing every step you take. And to extend the experience, sleep in a Maison Sylvestre designed by Matali Crasset, a surprising cabin where you can spend a night lulled by the sounds of nature.
See our Top 20 unusual accommodations in France.
5. Take to the skies at Montmédy citadel or in the Meuse sky
Proudly overlooking the valley, the citadel of Montmédy, remodelled by Vauban, offers a superb panorama. Stroll along the ramparts, explore the casemates or be surprised by a summer torchlight tour that brings the fortress back to life. The site also hosts exhibitions and events for young and old throughout the year.
Why not treat yourself to the luxury of a trip above the clouds?From a microlight, hot-air balloon or recreational aircraft, the Meuse is revealed in a whole new light : the meandering river, patchwork of forests and picturesque villages, shimmering lakes, historic sites and majestic memorials make up a unique spectacle from the air.
Read more: France's most beautiful hot-air balloon destinations
6. Travel back in time at the Village des Vieux Métiers in Azannes
Immerse yourself in the life of yesteryear! Here, more than 80 old trades are brought back to life by enthusiasts: blacksmiths, weavers, carpenters, bakers... The demonstrations are authentic and interactive, for a total immersion in the rural life of centuries gone by. From 2026, the experience will be even greater: you'll be able to spend the night in one of the reconstructed houses in the village. Don't forget to book!
7. What to do in the Meuse? Be seduced by the Renaissance city of Bar-le-Duc
Elegant and discreet, Bar-le-Duc is a city of Renaissance charm. Stroll through the upper town and you'll discover private mansions with carved facades full of character. The city also boasts a wide range of cultural events: the Musicales en Barrois for lovers of baroque music, Bar EnVoix for fans of a cappella singing and Watts à Bar, a rock and reggae festival on a human scale.
Read also: Top 25 most beautiful villages in France
8. Discover masterpieces of art history in Saint-Mihiel
A small town full of character, Saint-Mihiel hides a treasure trove: the sculptures of Ligier Richier, the great master of the Renaissance. His Sépulcre is a masterpiece that attracts art lovers from all over the world. A stroll through the town also reveals a wealth of stained-glass windows. The Parcours Façades (Façade Route) gently reveals this to night-time strollers.
9. Walking in the footsteps of Joan of Arc in Vaucouleurs
It was in Vaucouleurs that Joan of Arc took her destiny into her own hands: she was equipped there before setting off to convince King Charles VII. A visit to the town and its museum will take you back to this seminal page in the history of France and bring you closer to the spirit of La Pucelle, whose birthplace, interpretation centre and basilica built in her honour can all be visited at Domrémy-la-Pucelle, a nearby village in the Vosges.
10. What to do in the Meuse? Savour the local flavours
A stay in Meuse wouldn't be complete without a gourmet escapade! IGP Côtes de Meuse and IGP Lorraine wines, Commercy madeleines, Verdun dragées and Bar-le-Duc goose quill seeded redcurrant jam are just some of the specialities to be savoured on the spot or to take home as a souvenir. Beer lovers can stop off at the Musée de la Bière in Stenay, where the visit ends with a tasting session. And for families, what could be better than a visit to a farm in Woimbey, Vauquois, Mognéville or Ménil-la-Horgne, to fill up on beautiful souvenirs and a gourmet hamper?
