The best road cycling routes around Saint-Jean-Lès-Buzy

💧 Plan d'Eau de la Sangsue – Small Natural Lake Tucked away in the countryside lies the Plan d'Eau de la Sangsue, a small natural lake with wild shoreline vegetation, calm waters, and a natural charm. While its name ("Leech Pond") is unusual, the body of water is a peaceful spot for walkers, nature lovers, and birdwatchers. 🌿 Surrounded by forest and meadows, the pond is a refuge for amphibians, insects, and waterfowl. A narrow path leads along the shore – ideal for a quiet break in nature. Tip: Particularly beautiful in spring or when there is light fog – then the pond appears almost mystical. Perfect for a quiet rest off the beaten track.

The monument was created in 1930 by the sculptor Duilio Donzelli, originally from Lacroix-sur-Meuse. Like many French villages after the Great War, Bonzée erected this monument to pay tribute to the local soldiers who gave their lives for France. The names of the fallen are listed on the monument, often with inscriptions such as "Mort pour la France" or "Tué à l'ennemi". What makes it extra special is that Bonzée is located in an area that was badly affected during the war, near the infamous ridge of Les Éparges. The monument is therefore not only a symbol of mourning, but also of the deep scars that the conflict has left in this region.

The Saint-Laurent church in Bonzée, originally from the 18th century, destroyed in 1914, rebuilt in 1927.

Beautiful view over Verdun and the Meuse valley. On the nearby main road it is wonderful to drive downhill, but uphill is only recommended to a limited extent due to the busy traffic.

The Ossuary of Douaumont is an impressive memorial that holds the remains of more than 130,000 unknown French and German soldiers who died during the Battle of Verdun (1916). The bones are visible through small windows in the base – a confronting reminder of the horrors of war. In front of the ossuary is the Nécropole nationale de Douaumont, the largest French military cemetery of the First World War, with 16,142 graves, including a Muslim and Jewish plot. The complex was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2023.

The Mémorial de Verdun, located near the ruined village of Fleury-devant-Douaumont, is a leading museum and commemoration site for the Battle of Verdun (1916). The museum displays more than 2,000 objects and uses authentic objects, photographs and audiovisual installations to show how French and German soldiers experienced this battle – in the exact same place where they fought.

Very beautiful pond with a lot of activities for children (playground and outdoor activity park)

Take a moment to pause between the ossuary and this stone garden; tranquility reigns here. Don't forget to thank our brave soldiers for their ultimate sacrifice.