Attractions around Acq, a commune in northern France, offer a blend of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty within the Hauts-de-France region. This area is characterized by its farming villages, proximity to the Scarpe river, and diverse landscapes of the Pas-de-Calais department. Visitors can explore ancient monuments, significant war memorials, and tranquil natural areas. The region also provides access to the larger city of Arras, which offers additional historical and cultural points of interest.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Highlight (Segment) • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Showing Translation
Tip by
Highlight (Segment) • Natural
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Acq.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The ruins of the old church of Ablain-Saint-Nazaire are an impressive and symbolic remnant of the First World War. This church, built in the 16th century in flamboyant Gothic style by Jacques Le Caron, was heavily damaged during the fighting in 1915. The ruins have been preserved as a monument to commemorate the horrors of war.
7
0
A remarkable story about the ruins concerns the decision not to rebuild the church after the war. Although the church had been classified as a historical monument in 1908, the Commission for Historical Monuments decided that the ruins should remain as a testimony to the German destruction. Ironically, it was the French guns that had destroyed the church, but the ruins became a symbol of the war and the reconstruction.
6
0
The Nécropole nationale de Notre-Dame-de-Lorette is one of the largest and most impressive military cemeteries in France. Situated on a hill in Ablain-Saint-Nazaire, this cemetery contains the graves of more than 42,000 soldiers who died during the First World War. The cemetery was inaugurated in 1925 and includes a basilica, a tower-lantern and a museum.
7
0
The church dedicated to the Mother of God under the title "Notre-Dame de Lorette" rises in brilliant white and is visible from far away. But the brilliant impression is deceptive, at the latest when the visitor to the site realizes that they are in a huge military cemetery. Around 20,000 individual graves and a further 23,000 victims of war and tyranny buried in ossuaries are deeply disturbing.
3
0
Such places are still very important today as memorials to the countless war dead. "Now, Lord, you let your servant depart in peace, as you have said..." says the so-called "Hymn of Simeon" (Luke's Gospel, Chapter 2, Verse 29). However, the many people buried here did not depart in peace, but became victims of war and an inhuman tyranny. The most important and at the same time everlasting function of the military or honorary cemeteries or war graves is therefore to keep the memory of this suffering alive and - every generation anew (!) - to remind them of the need to maintain peace in the long term.
0
0
This hike takes private paths... To avoid ending up with a complaint filed
1
0
Be careful if you take the wooden passage, slippery if wet
1
0
In Acq, you can explore the ancient Menhirs of Acq, also known as the 'twin stones,' which date back to 4000-3000 BC and are classified as Historical Monuments. The Church of St. Géry, a typical Artois construction from the 16th and 17th centuries, is also notable. Additionally, you can find the remains of a medieval motte, hinting at the village's ancient past.
Yes, the area around Acq is rich in remembrance sites from the First World War. You can visit Notre-Dame-de-Lorette National Cemetery, one of France's largest military cemeteries, containing over 42,000 soldiers' graves. Another impressive site is the Canadian National Vimy Memorial, commemorating Canadian Expeditionary Force members who died in the war. The ruined church of Ablain-Saint-Nazaire also stands as a poignant monument to the conflict.
For a natural escape, head to the Marais de Maroeuil, a protected marsh area with rich flora and fauna, perfect for quiet walks along the Scarpe river. The broader Pas-de-Calais department offers diverse natural landscapes, including extensive beaches, bays, and dramatic clifftops, providing many opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities near Acq. You can find trails like the 'Abbey of Mont-Saint-Éloi – The two Towers loop from Acq' or 'Les baudets revisited loop from Villers-au-Bois'. For more detailed routes and options, explore the Hiking around Acq guide.
The region around Acq offers various cycling routes. You can find road cycling tours such as the 'Ruins of Mont-Saint-Eloi Abbey – Abbey of Mont Saint-Éloi loop from Villers-au-Bois' or the 'Memory Cycle Route – Ruins of Saint-Bertin Abbey loop from Frévin-Capelle'. Discover more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Acq guide.
Many of the historical sites near Acq are suitable for families, offering educational experiences. The Canadian National Vimy Memorial and Notre-Dame-de-Lorette National Cemetery are both tagged as family-friendly, providing important historical context. Additionally, exploring the natural areas like the Marais de Maroeuil can be an enjoyable outdoor activity for all ages.
The best time to visit Acq for outdoor activities is generally during the spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, the weather is typically mild and pleasant, ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring the historical sites and natural landscapes without the intense heat of summer or the chill of winter.
Just 11 km from Acq, the city of Arras offers a wealth of cultural landmarks. You can explore its famous Belfry and Baroque Houses, with the belfry being a UNESCO World Heritage site offering panoramic views. Other notable sites include Carrière Wellington, a museum in tunnels from WWI, and the Arras Citadel, a UNESCO-listed site built by Vauban.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Highlights like The Caucourt Ford and Watermill are praised for their 'magical' atmosphere and picturesque setting. The profound historical impact of sites like the Canadian National Vimy Memorial and Notre-Dame-de-Lorette National Cemetery also leave a lasting impression, offering moments of reflection and remembrance.
Yes, there are several running trails in the vicinity of Acq. You can find routes like 'The two Towers – Ruins of Mont-Saint-Eloi Abbey loop from Acq' or 'Le Bois de Camblain loop from Villers-au-Bois'. For more options and detailed information, refer to the Running Trails around Acq guide.
Acq is a charming commune, and while specific establishments are not detailed in the guide data, as a farming village, it typically offers local amenities including cafes or small eateries. For accommodation, you might find guesthouses or bed and breakfasts, with more extensive options available in nearby larger towns like Arras.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: