Best natural monuments around Englebelmer are primarily significant historical sites that have shaped the landscape. Englebelmer is situated in the Somme department of the Hauts-de-France region, an area known for its historical significance, particularly from World War I. The terrain features a mix of agricultural land and preserved sites, offering a unique blend of natural and historical exploration. These sites provide insight into past events and the subsequent natural reclamation of the land.
Last updated: June 21, 2026
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The Cratère de Lochnagar, an impressive war memorial, was created by a huge mine blown up by the British Royal Engineers on 1 July 1916, as part of the Battle of the Somme. The explosion marked the beginning of the battle and left a crater 90 metres in diameter and 25 metres deep. Interestingly, the crater was named after Lochnagar Street, the trench from which the tunnel was dug. The crater is now a preserved site of remembrance and a religious service is held there every year on 1 July in memory of those who died.
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The 38th Welsh Division Memorial, unveiled in 1987, is dedicated to the soldiers of the 38th Welsh Division who fell at the Battle of Mametz Wood in July 1916, at the start of the Battle of the Somme, and "marks their sacrifice for Freedom" with a red dragon, the symbol of Wales. With its wings in motion, the dragon, facing Mametz Wood, tears through barbed wire with its claws. On July 10, 1916, during the Battle of the Somme, the 38th Welsh Division was forced to capture Mametz Wood, a stronghold of German resistance that was preventing any eastward advance of the British Army. The wood was taken after fierce bayonet fighting, at the cost of very heavy losses, on July 12, 1916. For most of the soldiers, it was their baptism of fire: 4,000 men were put out of action, including 600 killed and 600 missing. Having lost a quarter of its strength, the 38th Welsh Division was relieved after a week and did not participate in a major offensive again until July 31, 1917.
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Just off the road to Bapaume, is the site of the grand mine. At 7am on the 1st July 1916 the biggest explosion in history cause this hole o e of several that marked the start of the Battle of the Somme. Well worth a visit.
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Very moving place of memory. Never forget 💮.
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Enormous crater! Should you take with you on the tour: few are so well preserved and accessible.
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An impressive example of the power of destruction: 100 years later, you still stand at this crater and can't imagine what really happened here. Well documented and can also be visited by groups, the area has space for stay and exchange.
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Lochnagar Crater is the largest man-made World War I mine crater on the Western Front, created by a massive explosion that marked the start of the Battle of the Somme in 1916. You can tour the crater on a walk , discover history through information panels and pay tribute to the men and women who suffered during the Great War. The Lochnagar Crater Foundation organizes annual commemoration ceremonies and maintains the site as a memorial.
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Lochnagar Crater is the largest artificial mine crater of the First World War on the Western Front. It was created by a massive explosion of 60,000 pounds of explosives under German lines on July 1, 1916, the first day of the Battle of the Somme. You can tour the crater and discover its history thanks to the information panels. You can also pay your respects to fallen soldiers by visiting the memorial cross and memorial plaques.
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The natural monuments around Englebelmer are primarily historical sites from World War I that have become integrated into the landscape. Among the most significant are the Lochnagar Crater, a massive mine crater marking the start of the Battle of the Somme, and the Hawthorn Ridge Crater, another poignant site bearing witness to the events of July 1, 1916. These sites offer a unique blend of natural reclamation and historical narrative.
Yes, several natural monuments around Englebelmer are suitable for families. The Lochnagar Crater and the Dorsetshire Regiment Monument are both categorized as family-friendly. These sites provide an opportunity for educational visits, allowing families to learn about history while experiencing the unique landscape.
The area around Englebelmer offers various outdoor activities, particularly hiking and cycling, often intertwined with visits to the natural monuments. You can find numerous routes, such as the easy "Caribou Trail" for hiking or the "Monument to Abel Guidet – Lochnagar Crater loop" for road cycling. For more options, explore the hiking routes around Englebelmer or the road cycling routes in the region.
While specific data for Englebelmer isn't available, the Hauts-de-France region generally offers pleasant conditions for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. Spring brings blooming landscapes, while autumn provides comfortable temperatures and beautiful foliage. Summer is also popular, though it can be warmer. Visiting outside of peak season might offer a more tranquil experience.
Yes, many hiking trails in the area are designed to take you through or past these significant sites. For instance, you can find routes like the "Somme Trench Museum loop from Albert" or the "Newfoundland Memorial Park loop from Beaumont-Hamel" which allow you to explore the historical landscape on foot. You can discover more trails by checking the hiking guide for Englebelmer.
The natural monuments around Englebelmer are deeply rooted in the history of World War I, particularly the Battle of the Somme. Sites like the Lochnagar Crater and Hawthorn Ridge Crater are direct results of massive mine explosions that occurred during the battle. Visiting these sites offers a profound insight into the scale and impact of the conflict, with many featuring information panels and memorials to those who fell.
While the primary focus is historical, the sites demonstrate how nature reclaims and integrates man-made alterations. You'll observe craters now covered in vegetation, fields, and trees surrounding monuments, and the general agricultural landscape of the Somme department. The broader Hauts-de-France region also features diverse natural areas like regional natural parks with forests, meadows, and wetlands, though the immediate Englebelmer area is characterized by its historical war-torn landscape now softened by nature.
Beyond the craters, the area is rich with World War I memorials and monuments. The Dorsetshire Regiment Monument commemorates a British infantry unit, and the Mametz Wood Welsh Division Memorial honors the soldiers of the 38th Welsh Division. These sites, often set amidst picturesque countryside, offer further historical insights into the conflict.
Visitors frequently appreciate the unique blend of history and nature found at these sites. The profound sense of remembrance at places like the Lochnagar Crater, combined with the peaceful, reclaimed landscapes, creates a powerful experience. The opportunity to walk through history and reflect on past events in a natural setting is highly valued by the komoot community, who have shared over 50 photos and given more than 30 upvotes to these locations.
While specific parking details for each individual monument are not provided, historical sites and memorials in the Somme region typically have designated parking areas or roadside parking available nearby, especially for popular locations like the major craters. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival.
Yes, the Hauts-de-France region, which includes the Somme department where Englebelmer is located, is home to five Regional Natural Parks. These include the Scarpe-Escaut Regional Natural Park, known for its rivers and forests, and the Cap et Marais d'Opale Regional Natural Park with its coastal features and marshes. These parks offer diverse ecosystems and opportunities to reconnect with nature. You can find more information about these pristine areas on the Hauts-de-France Tourism website.
Englebelmer itself is a small municipality, but nearby towns such as Albert offer a range of amenities including cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Larger towns in the Somme department like Abbeville also provide comprehensive services. Many visitors choose to stay in these towns and drive to the various historical sites and natural monuments.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Englebelmer: