Best attractions and places to see around Neuvireuil include a variety of historical, cultural, and natural sites within the Pas-de-Calais department of France. While Neuvireuil itself is a commune, the surrounding region offers numerous points of interest. Visitors can explore significant historical landmarks, cultural institutions, and natural landscapes. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities along rivers and through unique geological formations.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Remains of a fortified mill during the First World War, a testament to the fraternization of the French. It was rediscovered in 2015. The Red Mill On this hill, which marks the boundary between the villages of Thélus and Neuville-Saint-Vaast, a windmill had stood since the Middle Ages. It produced flour, oil, and also woad, a blue dye used in Arras tapestries. It was rebuilt in 1678 in red brick, which later gave it the nickname "The Red Mill," in contrast to another mill in Thélus built of white stone and called the White Mill. The Mill Trench In October 1914, the Germans captured the hills outside Arras. The Moulin Rouge was quickly destroyed, but the Germans fortified the ruins to create an observation post facing the trenches of the Labyrinth sector, located 1,500 meters from here toward Arras. In May and September 1915, the French recaptured ground from the Germans during the Battles of Artois, and this observation post found itself on the French front line. It was then repurposed to observe the German lines toward Thélus. It then served as a landmark and gave its name to the "Mill Trench" that led to it. Fraternizations It was here that on December 10, 1915, Louis Barthas, a corporal in the 280th Infantry Regiment of the French Army, participated in a moment of fraternization between German and French soldiers emerging from their flooded trenches. The account he gave of them in his War Diaries contributed to their recognition, leading to the creation of the Fraternization Monument, located in Neuville-Saint-Vaast, 2 km away. Archaeology In 2015, archaeological excavations uncovered the foundations of the mill and its outbuildings, a concrete observation post, and traces of a trench. These remains are displayed in this garden, which evokes the trenches that faced each other. During the development of the adjacent Parc d'activité des Meuniers, more than 30 soldiers' bodies were found: French, German, and Canadian. Six soldiers were identified; they came from Périgueux, Limoges, Saintes, and Béthune. Gaston Basset, a soldier in the 50th Infantry Regiment, died on September 27, 1915, during the attack on Thélus. His body was found in 2012 at the location indicated by a comrade in a letter addressed to his widow.
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The Seven Bonnettes are a fascinating megalithic site, surrounded by legends and mysteries. Located in a picturesque valley, this 75 meter high mound is crowned with standing stones forming a crown. According to legend, these stones represent six young girls and a musician, transformed into statues by Heaven for having danced instead of attending vespers.
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Small mythical location. The stone pillars on top have already made many passers-by think. They are part of the unknown treasures of Arras and the Pays d'Artois. The various megalithic sites are good for a beautiful walk, among mysteries and legends, history and extraordinary landscapes. Set sail for the Scarpe valley and the Sensée valley, in the wake of the megaliths of the Pays d'Artois.
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If you are looking for a nice bike ride along the Scarpe, you can go to Lock No. 30 in Athies, a lock that regulates the water level and allows the passage of boats . Lock No. 30 at Athies is part of the Scarpe Supérieure, a canalized section of the river which connects Arras and Douai. It is also a hydrographic area which contributes to the water quality and biodiversity of the region. Lock No. 30 in Athies is a privileged place to appreciate the technical and environmental aspects of the Scarpe.
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The further from Arras the worse the towpath gets.
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The Scarpe Canal Towpath is a peaceful and leafy greenway created by the Arras Urban Community as part of the Arras Green and Blue Network. This Greenway along the Scarpe Canal towpath aims to ensure continuity of wooded areas between rural and urban areas. The route is interesting and pleasant, as it allows you to safely leave the city, along the water's edge, crossing several natural parks along the towpath. The Greenway starts in Arras, right in the city center, on Rue Louis Blanc or on Boulevard R. Schuman. The end is on Rue de l'Ecluse in Fampoux. This Greenway has a stabilized dolomite surface, suitable for all types of bicycles but not rollerblades.
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A pleasant route along the Scarpe. Places very frequented in good weather.
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The Drocourt slag heap is like a bike park (without the cable cars ;o). Ideal for improving technique or letting off steam for two hours
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The region around Neuvireuil is rich in history, particularly related to World War I. You can visit the significant The Red Windmill, a former fortified mill that played a role in the war and was a site of fraternization. Further afield, the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and the Arras Wellington Quarry offer profound insights into the Battle of Arras. For a deeper dive into WWII history, consider visiting La Coupole or The Eperlecques Bunker.
Yes, the area offers excellent cycling opportunities. You can enjoy a pleasant ride along The Scarpe by bike, a route that follows the Scarpe river and leads to points like Lock No. 30 in Athies. The Scarpe riverbanks also provide a peaceful, leafy greenway suitable for bikes. For more extensive cycling, the long-distance cycling route La Vélomaritime offers scenic maritime views, and you can find various cycling routes in our dedicated guide: Cycling around Neuvireuil.
You'll find several pleasant spots for walking and hiking. The Scarpe riverbanks offer a peaceful greenway for safe exploration outside the city. For a unique experience, visit Les Bonnettes, a megalithic site with stone pillars surrounded by local legends, perfect for a walk among history and landscapes. The Terril de Drocourt, a former slag heap, provides a unique, almost lunar setting for adventurous walks. For more options, explore our guide to Hiking around Neuvireuil.
Beyond the riverbanks, you can discover unique natural features. Les Bonnettes is a fascinating megalithic site set in the natural landscape of Pays d'Artois. The Terril de Drocourt offers a distinctive, almost lunar landscape, ideal for those seeking a change of scenery. Further afield, the Dunes along the Picardy coast provide scenic landscapes with footpaths, and the vast Forest of Compiègne offers extensive trails and ancient trees for a rejuvenating escape.
Yes, there are several options for families. The peaceful Scarpe riverbanks and The Scarpe by bike routes are great for easy walks or bike rides with children. For a dedicated leisure experience, the Laby Parc offers corn mazes, karting, water-balls, and treetop trails, providing a fun day out for all ages. You can also find more family-friendly ideas for the wider Pas-de-Calais region at visitpasdecalais.com.
The area boasts significant cultural sites. The Louvre-Lens Museum is a renowned art institution located nearby. In Arras, you can explore the historic Grand Place and Place des Héros, known for their architecture. If your visit aligns, the Main Square Festival in Arras is a popular music event. These sites offer a rich blend of art, history, and local culture.
Visitors particularly appreciate the peaceful and scenic nature of the Scarpe riverbanks, noting it as a magnificent place for cycling and walking. The unique and mysterious atmosphere of Les Bonnettes, with its ancient stone pillars and local legends, also captivates many. For those seeking adventure, the Terril de Drocourt is praised for its 'lunar decor' and excellent mountain biking opportunities.
Yes, the region offers some distinctive geological sites. Les Bonnettes features intriguing stone pillars that are part of the megalithic sites in the Pays d'Artois, offering a blend of natural wonder and ancient mystery. Additionally, the Terril de Drocourt, a former mining slag heap, presents a unique, almost lunar landscape that stands out in the local topography.
Absolutely! There are several running trails available for different fitness levels. You can find various running loops starting from Neuvireuil, Fresnes-lès-Montauban, and Oppy. These routes offer a great way to explore the local scenery while getting some exercise. For detailed information and maps, check out our guide to Running Trails around Neuvireuil.
The best time to visit the attractions around Neuvireuil largely depends on your interests. For outdoor activities like cycling, hiking, and exploring natural sites such as the Scarpe riverbanks or the Forest of Compiègne, spring (April-June) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant weather. Summer (July-August) is ideal for festivals like the Main Square Festival in Arras and enjoying the longer daylight hours, though it can be busier. Historical sites like the Canadian National Vimy Memorial are accessible year-round, but a clear day enhances the experience.
Yes, the Terril de Drocourt is an excellent spot for mountain biking. It's described as being like a bike park, perfect for improving technique or letting off steam with its unique 'lunar decor.' It offers exhilarating descents and a challenging environment for mountain biking enthusiasts.
Beyond the well-known sites, Les Bonnettes is considered one of the 'unknown treasures' of Arras and the Pays d'Artois, offering a mysterious walk among ancient stones and local legends. The The Red Windmill, while historically significant, is a poignant and less-trafficked site that provides a unique glimpse into WWI history and fraternization.


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