The best walks and hikes around Hartennes-Et-Taux

History In the 19th century, the municipality built a covered lavoir: a stone washhouse with a large basin, fed by the water of the nearby streams in the Crise Valley. Here, the laundrettes (washerwomen) gathered to do their laundry, protected from the sun and rain. Until the arrival of tap water and washing machines, the lavoir was an essential village building, as well as a place for meeting and sharing.

It's remarkable to come across something like this in the middle of nowhere. You wonder what it is and why it's there. 🧺 Lavoir de Maast-et-Violaine (also called "Lavoir de Chantrenne") At the foot of the Maast slope, at the intersection of the D831 and the hamlet of Violaine, you'll find this beautiful lavoir. The covered washhouse dates back to the 19th century and was used daily by the laundrettes (washerwomen) of the Crise Valley. Here they washed linen in the spring and stream water, protected from rain and sun. The building was recently restored to its original state and now forms a special heritage site in the village. A picnic table next to the lavoir makes it an ideal resting spot for walkers and cyclists. 📸 View the photo series of this lavoir here: Gallery “Les lavoirs de l'Aisne – Maast-et-Violaine” https://www.notre-passion-des-lavoirs.com

Located in the Aisne region, Septmonts Castle was originally the country residence of the bishops of Soissons. Built between the 12th and 16th centuries, it retains several original features, such as the so-called Saint-Louis Room. Visitors can discover a 14th-century keep and square tower, as well as a 16th-century Renaissance pavilion. Bombed during the First World War, Septmonts Castle is now classified as a historical monument for its chapel and keep, and an inscription for the rest of the buildings. The impressive keep is over forty meters high and consists of seven stories of complex architecture. Septmonts Castle itself is adorned with a park featuring an arboretum and an orchard. The entire complex is open to the public, and the Renaissance residence also hosts temporary exhibitions. Every June, the site hosts the Pic'Arts rock festival concerts.

A charming place, it is even possible to climb to the top of the keep to access a breathtaking view of the characterful village of Septmonts!

The Donjon de Septmonts is a medieval tower in the French village of Septmonts, located near Soissons, in the Hauts-de-France region. The tower was built in the 14th century and was originally part of a castle that served as a residence for the bishops of Soissons. The tower is 47 meters high and has seven floors. It is a striking example of the princely style of the late 14th century, combining both military and residential functions. The tower is currently undergoing a restoration programme.

The Keep of Septmonts is a 14th century tower which was once the residence of the bishops of Soissons. The tower is 45 meters high and offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You can also explore the park and arboretum surrounding the tower, where you will find a variety of trees, plants and flowers from different continents. The park also has a picnic area, playground and vineyard that reflects the local wine heritage. The Donjon de Septmonts is open every day from May to September and on weekends the rest of the year. Entrance is free and you can enjoy a guided tour or a self-guided tour with an audio guide. The Donjon de Septmonts is a privileged place to discover the history and nature of this charming village in Aisne.

The park is open and invites you to rest and have a picnic. The old walls all around provide the necessary medieval ambience. Is otherwise very quiet here, pleasant area a little further out.

magic view