Natural monuments around La Neuville-Lès-Bray are characterized by the fluvial landscapes of the Somme department, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The region features panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Somme River's meanders, alongside sites that bear witness to World War I history. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities and appreciation of the distinctive local environment.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Viewpoint
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 • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
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.
8
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
Very moving place of memory. Never forget 💮.
1
0
The Frize mountain belvedere reveals a striking view of the meanders of the Somme, in a peaceful setting that contrasts with its past marked by the battles of the First World War. Traces of this history are still visible in the trenches and shell impacts. Mentioned by Blaise Cendrars, this land rich in history today offers visitors an exceptional panorama of a landscape of marshes and ponds.
2
0
Enormous crater! Should you take with you on the tour: few are so well preserved and accessible.
2
0
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.
3
0
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.
5
0
The natural monuments around La Neuville-Lès-Bray primarily feature the fluvial landscapes of the Somme department. You'll find panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Somme River's meanders, such as the Frise Viewpoint, alongside significant historical sites that are also considered natural monuments due to their formation, like the Lochnagar Crater and La Boisselle Mine Crater.
Yes, the region is rich in sites that combine natural features with profound historical significance, particularly related to World War I. The Lochnagar Crater and La Boisselle Mine Crater are prime examples, formed by massive explosions during the Battle of the Somme. The Frise Viewpoint also offers a peaceful setting that contrasts with its past as a WWI battlefield, with traces of trenches and shell impacts still visible.
For stunning panoramic views of the Somme Valley, the Frise Viewpoint is highly recommended. It offers an exceptional panorama of marshes and ponds, revealing the striking meanders of the Somme River. The Belvédère de Vaux, mentioned in regional research, also provides magnificent vistas.
Many of the natural monuments in the area are family-friendly. Sites like the Lochnagar Crater, Frise Viewpoint, and La Boisselle Mine Crater are accessible and offer educational opportunities about history and nature, making them suitable for family visits.
The region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore the area by cycling along the Canal de la Somme Cycle Path, or enjoy mountain biking on trails like the Towpath Along the Somme River. There are also several running trails, such as loops around the Canal de la Somme, providing opportunities for active exploration.
Yes, the Chemin de halage de Corbie à Sailly-le-Sec, a historic towpath along the Somme River, is now a popular trail for hiking and walking. It's generally flat and accessible, offering picturesque views and opportunities to observe local wildlife. You can find various running and walking loops around the Canal de la Somme, which often pass by or near these natural sites.
The region's natural monuments, with their scenic views and outdoor activity options, are enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring to autumn. This allows for comfortable exploration of the viewpoints and historical sites, as well as pleasant conditions for cycling, running, and walking along the Somme River.
While specific regulations for each site may vary, generally, natural trails and outdoor areas in France are dog-friendly, especially if kept on a leash. It's always advisable to check local signage at each specific natural monument or trail for any restrictions regarding pets.
The fluvial landscapes of the Somme River and its surrounding marshes and ponds are home to diverse flora and fauna. Along trails like the Chemin de halage, you can observe various bird species and local wildlife, as well as flowering meadows, riverside trees, and aquatic plants.
Beyond the prominent viewpoints and historical craters, there is a preserved natural site near La Sarcelle, approximately 4.9 km from La Neuville-Lès-Bray. This site is appreciated for its natural preservation and includes a restored eel farm, offering a glimpse into local traditions and ecosystems.
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth. The exceptional panoramas from viewpoints like Frise Viewpoint, combined with the poignant history of sites like Lochnagar Crater, offer a compelling experience. The komoot community has shared over 50 photos and given more than 30 upvotes to these highlights, reflecting their appeal.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around La Neuville-Lès-Bray: