Attractions and Places To See around Dhuizel - Top 15
Best attractions and places to see around Dhuizel is a rural commune in the Aisne department of the Hauts-de-France region, offering a tranquil setting. While the village itself has limited direct attractions, it serves as a base for exploring a range of notable landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites in the surrounding area. The region is characterized by its historical significance, particularly related to World War I, and its natural reserves.
Best attractions and places to see around Dhuizel
- The…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
Cerny-en-Laonnois, chapelle & Lanterne des Morts
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Louis Astoul Memorial
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
Paissy Troglodyte Village
Highlight (Segment) • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Château de la Folie
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Marin Dugourny Memorial, Chemin des Dames
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Dhuizel.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Marcel Duquenoy; Small memorial stone along the D18 between the Ferme de la Royère and the Ferme de Malval. It commemorates Marcel Duquenoy, a 20-year-old aspiring officer from Calais in the 350th Infantry Regiment, who was killed in the wood opposite the monument on 6 May 1917 during the Battle of La Malmaison. The inscription is from his parents: “En souvenir de notre fils disparu dans le bois en face” – a personal tribute in a landscape marked by collective loss.
6
0
Jean Dauly Memorial; This sober monument commemorates Jean Dauly, a soldier in the 350th Infantry Regiment, who was killed on 6 May 1917 at the age of 20 during heavy fighting in the forest opposite the current location. It stands along the D18 between the Ferme de La Royère and the Ferme de Malval. The inscription bears witness to the personal loss: “Regretté de sa mère, de toute sa famille et de ses comarades. Priez pour lui”.
7
0
Louis Astoul: Along the D18 on the Chemin des Dames, between Cerny-en-Laonnois and the Caverne du Dragon, stands a modest monument to Louis Astoul, a young French second lieutenant in the 70th regiment of tirailleurs sénégalais. He was killed on 16 April 1917, on the first day of the disastrous Nivelle Offensive, at the age of just 24. The monument honours not only him, but also his comrades – mostly colonial soldiers from West Africa – who gave their lives in this region in the hope of a breakthrough that never came. Astoul was reported missing near the village of Paissy, and his body was never found. Today, this memorial recalls the often forgotten role of colonial troops in the Great War, and the personal drama behind the great history.
8
0
During the First World War, Cerny-en-Laonnois was a strategic point along the Chemin des Dames, a ridge fiercely contested by French and German troops. In September 1914, the village was taken by the Germans, who used it as a defensive post. They dug deep underground networks in the limestone, which served as shelters and munitions stores. In the spring of 1917, the area became the scene of the Nivelle Offensive, a large-scale French attack that resulted in heavy losses and eventually led to mutinies within the French army. Cerny-en-Laonnois was completely destroyed by artillery fire and fighting. After the war, the village was rebuilt a little further south. Today, the military cemeteries, the memorial chapel and the “Lanterne des Morts” bear witness to the immense human suffering that took place here.
6
0
Along the Chemin des Dames there are numerous memorial steles for individual soldiers, troops and units that fought here in 1917. You have to be aware that although today you can drive there comfortably on a highway, back then you were directly on the front line of one of the bloodiest battles of the World War.
2
0
Former fortress from the 12th to the 13th century, this castle was unfortunately destroyed by the fighting of the Great War.
0
0
Paissy is landlocked at the bottom of a valley. Its only street forms an arc of a circle. The village is known for its cave dwellings. The dwellings are sometimes enclosed in creutes, small caves which are maintained all year round at a suitable temperature. It is very pleasant to walk there.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites related to World War I can I visit near Dhuizel?
The region around Dhuizel is rich in World War I history. You can visit Cerny-en-Laonnois, chapelle & Lanterne des Morts, a site of immense human suffering during the war, featuring military cemeteries and a memorial chapel. Also, consider the Caverne du Dragon, Musee du Chemin des Dames, which offers insights into the history of the Chemin des Dames. Several poignant memorials, such as the Louis Astoul Memorial and the Marin Dugourny Memorial, commemorate individual soldiers and units who fought in the area.
Are there any unique historical settlements to explore near Dhuizel?
Yes, the Paissy Troglodyte Village is a unique settlement known for its cave dwellings. It offers a distinctive walking experience through its architecture, where dwellings are sometimes enclosed in 'creutes' (small caves) that maintain a suitable temperature year-round.
What other significant historical landmarks are in the wider region?
Beyond Dhuizel, the wider region offers several significant historical landmarks. These include the impressive Château Coucy, the Palais de Tau and Reims Cathedral Tower in Reims, and the Septmont Keep near Soissons, a medieval tower with an arboretum. You can also explore the Saint-Jean-des-Vignes Abbey and Soissons Cathedral in Soissons, or visit the well-preserved Fort of Condé.
Where can I find natural reserves or forests near Dhuizel?
For nature enthusiasts, several natural reserves are within reach. These include the Réserve naturelle des Landes de Versigny, the Réserve naturelle du Coteau de Chartèves, and the Réserve naturelle du marais de Vesles-et-Caumont. Additionally, the Foret de Retz offers a significant expanse of natural beauty for exploration.
What outdoor activities, like cycling or mountain biking, are available around Dhuizel?
The area around Dhuizel is great for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for road cycling, touring cycling, and mountain biking. For example, there are moderate road cycling routes like the 'Ruins of Vauclair Abbey loop' and easy touring cycling options such as the 'Bike loop from Œuilly'. Mountain bikers can explore trails like the 'Mountainbike loop from Fismes'. You can find more details and routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Dhuizel, Cycling around Dhuizel, and MTB Trails around Dhuizel guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Dhuizel?
Many historical sites in the region can be engaging for families, especially those with an interest in history. The Paissy Troglodyte Village offers a unique and interesting walk for all ages. Exploring the military cemeteries and memorials at Cerny-en-Laonnois can also be a poignant educational experience for older children.
What is the best time of year to visit Dhuizel and its surrounding attractions?
The best time to visit Dhuizel and its surrounding attractions is generally during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) months. During these periods, the weather is typically mild and pleasant for exploring historical sites and natural reserves. Summer (July and August) is also popular, but can be warmer, while winter can be cold and some attractions might have reduced hours.
Are there local markets to visit near Dhuizel?
Yes, several nearby towns host local markets. You can find markets in Braine (Fridays), Fismes (Saturdays), Fere-en-Tardenois (Wednesdays), and Soissons (Wednesdays & Saturdays). Larger towns like Laon (Thursdays) and Reims (daily) also offer market experiences, providing opportunities to discover local produce and crafts.
What kind of unique gardens can I visit in the area?
The region features several charming gardens. Consider visiting the Jardin botanique de la Presle, the Jardin du château de la Muette, the Jardin de Bosmont-sur-Serre, or the Jardin du donjon de Vez. These offer diverse botanical experiences and beautiful landscapes to explore.
What happened to Château de la Folie?
The Château de la Folie was a former fortress dating from the 12th to 13th century. Unfortunately, it was completely destroyed during the fighting of the Great War, leaving behind its historical significance as a testament to the conflict.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Dhuizel?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique walking experience offered by the Paissy Troglodyte Village and the profound historical significance of sites like Cerny-en-Laonnois. The area's blend of World War I memorials, distinctive settlements, and natural features provides a varied and engaging experience, as evidenced by the community's upvotes and shared photos.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
