Attractions and Places To See around Ham-Les-Moines - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Ham-Les-Moines. This small rural commune in the Ardennes department of France is known for its historical context and its location within the Ardennes Regional Nature Park. The area offers access to natural beauty and cultural sites, with many points of interest found in the nearby city of Charleville-Mézières. Visitors can explore a mix of historical landmarks and natural features in and around the commune.
Best attractions and places to see around Ham-Les-Moines
- The…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Place Ducale, Charleville-Mézières
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Montcornet Castle
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Charles de Gonzague Fountain and Statue, Charleville-Mézières
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Vieilles-Forges Lake
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Belvedere over Charleville
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For those who enjoy mountain biking and exploring beautiful passages, this hike is a great option. You'll cross beautiful trails and a medieval site (Château de Moncornet) (cover photo). There are some technical points, but they're not insurmountable.
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Beautiful and varied walk between fields and meadows and through forest. On the way you pass through a few villages, go around a walled castle and pass the well-preserved ruins of an old fortress in Monthermé.
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The bright colors of the local materials can be seen on the facades that were previously painted: yellow for the natural stone from Dom-le-Mesnil, red for the bricks and purple-white for the Ardennes slate. The whole falls under monument protection.
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Place Ducale is the central and historic main square of Charleville, the northern part of Charleville-Mézières. The square is a copy of the Place des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris. The only big difference is that the square in Paris was designed by Louis Métezeau and that of Charleville by Clément Métezeau, so brothers. The square is a feast for the eyes with 28 monumental buildings, built in the same Baroque style. In the center of the square there is a fountain and a classic merry-go-round. The Place Ducale became the beating heart of the city and still is. The symmetrical lines, the chessboard pattern, the arcades and the facades in red and yellow stone now regularly form the backdrop to events for which the city is known. The square was founded by its ambitious founder, the Italian prince Charles de Gonzague, who had a completely new city built in the 17th century. The square is 126 by 90 meters and the current buildings on the edge of the square all date from the 17th century.
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The statue of Carlo Gonzaga is the work of Alphonse Colle, from Charleville, who also created the monuments to the fallen of Charleville and Mézières. The fountain was first built on Place Ducale in 1899 at the initiative of a wealthy patron of the Industrial Revolution and then moved to its current location in 1999.
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Place Ducale in Charleville-Mézières is the nerve center of the city. Built at the beginning of the 17th century, this square has a decor similar to the Place des Vosges in Paris. In fact, it was two architect brothers, Louis and Clément Métezeau, who designed these places with their unique charms. Surrounded by pavilions and arcades, the square today brings together tourists and locals to café terraces.
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The spacious square with similar architecture, the surrounding arcades with shops and cafés provide a high quality of stay.
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Lac des Vieilles Forges is surrounded by forests and meadows. You can enjoy views of the water and wildlife while circling the lake. The lake is also part of a hydroelectric system that pumps water to and from two reservoirs to generate electricity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore near Ham-les-Moines?
Ham-les-Moines is situated within the vast Ardennes Regional Nature Park, offering lush forests, hedged farmlands, and rivers. A significant natural attraction is Lac des Vieilles Forges, located about 8.3 km away, which is popular for fishing, swimming, and water sports. The River Sormonne also flows through the commune, providing scenic spots.
What historical sites are there to visit around Ham-les-Moines?
While Ham-les-Moines itself has historical roots, with vestiges of old fortresses, many significant historical sites are found in nearby Charleville-Mézières. Key attractions include the historic Place Ducale, known for its 17th-century architecture, and Montcornet Castle, a medieval fortress with an exhibition space in its ruins. The Charleville-Mézières Town Hall, rebuilt after WWI, also showcases impressive architectural styles.
Are there family-friendly activities available near Ham-les-Moines?
Yes, several attractions cater to families. Lac des Vieilles Forges is a great spot for families, offering swimming, water sports, and a tree-climbing park. The Ardennes Regional Nature Park provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities like walking and cycling suitable for various ages. The lively Place Ducale in Charleville-Mézières also offers a pleasant environment with café terraces.
What outdoor activities can I do near Ham-les-Moines?
The area around Ham-les-Moines, particularly within the Ardennes Regional Nature Park, is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous opportunities for walking, cycling, mountain biking, and horse-riding. For specific routes, explore the Running Trails around Ham-Les-Moines, Gravel biking around Ham-Les-Moines, and Cycling around Ham-Les-Moines guides.
Are there hiking trails near Ham-les-Moines?
Yes, the region offers many hiking opportunities, especially within the Ardennes Regional Nature Park. You can find trails suitable for various difficulty levels. For specific running routes, including a 5.1 km loop from Ham-les-Moines itself, check out the Running Trails around Ham-Les-Moines guide.
What is the best time of year to visit Ham-les-Moines and the Ardennes region?
The best time to visit Ham-les-Moines and the wider Ardennes region for outdoor activities is typically from spring to autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and pleasant, ideal for hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural landscapes of the Ardennes Regional Nature Park and attractions like Lac des Vieilles Forges.
Can I visit the ruins of the 'Château du Seigneur' in Ham-les-Moines?
Historically, two fortresses, including one known as the 'Château du Seigneur,' once existed in Ham-les-Moines. Today, only vestiges remain. While these historical remnants are part of the commune's heritage, they are not developed tourist attractions like Montcornet Castle, which has an exhibition space.
What is there to see in Charleville-Mézières, which is close to Ham-les-Moines?
Charleville-Mézières, located about 9-10 km from Ham-les-Moines, is home to several notable landmarks. You can visit the iconic Place Ducale, the impressive Charleville-Mézières Town Hall, and the Charles de Gonzague Fountain and Statue. The city also hosts the Musée Rimbaud, dedicated to the famous poet, and the Basilique Notre-Dame d'Espérance with its stunning stained glass.
Are there any specific cycling routes recommended near Ham-les-Moines?
Yes, the area offers various cycling routes. For gravel biking, you can explore the 'Montcornet – Montcornet Castle loop from Ham-les-Moines' or 'The Trans-Ardennes Greenway – Voie verte Trans-Ardennes loop from Lonny'. For general cycling, routes like 'Lac des Vieilles Forges – Old Customs House (Douane) loop from Montcornet' are available. More details can be found in the Cycling around Ham-Les-Moines and Gravel biking around Ham-Les-Moines guides.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ham-les-Moines?
Visitors particularly appreciate the architectural beauty of sites like Place Ducale, often compared to Paris's Place des Vosges, and the historical significance of Montcornet Castle. The natural scenery and recreational opportunities at Lac des Vieilles Forges are also highly rated, with many enjoying walks and the peaceful environment.
Is the area around Ham-les-Moines suitable for dog-friendly walks?
The natural surroundings of Ham-les-Moines, especially within the Ardennes Regional Nature Park and along the River Sormonne, offer many opportunities for dog-friendly walks. Areas around Lac des Vieilles Forges are also popular for walks with pets, though it's always advisable to check local regulations regarding dogs in specific areas or on public transport.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots near Ham-les-Moines?
Yes, the region offers several scenic spots. The area around Lac des Vieilles Forges provides beautiful views of the water and surrounding forests. The Ardennes Regional Nature Park itself is known for its diverse landscapes, including rocky escarpments and lush forests, which offer numerous picturesque vistas. The elevated position of Montcornet Castle also offers views over the Sormonne valley.
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