The best walks and hikes around Monhofen

No mud problems

You should be careful when riding through the city center, because the smooth stone surface with small steps is not entirely safe for narrow racing bike tires.

Probably the smallest of the French Moselle metropolises. But alongside Metz, Nancy, and Épinal, Thionville also has a charm all its own. Its past as a bastion, or as a coal and steel mining region, is still clearly visible in many places.

🧱 **Northern Battery – The Hidden Wing of Fort de Guentrange** The **Northern Battery** is the northern section of Fort de Guentrange – sheltered in the forest above Thionville. It was part of the fort's outer defenses and served to secure the north side with guns, dugouts, and observation posts. 🌲 Today, the battery lies quietly in the countryside – many of the concrete structures, ditches, and ventilation shafts are still visible, some overgrown. An exciting place for explorers and history buffs. **Tip:** Bring sturdy shoes – the path leads through rough terrain. Particularly interesting for anyone who wants to experience a piece of hidden military history off the beaten track.

🛡️ **Fort de Guentrange – German Fortification above Thionville** The **Fort de Guentrange** was built between 1899 and 1906 by the German Reich Army when Thionville (then Diedenhofen) was part of the German Empire. It is one of the best-preserved forts along the Moselle River and part of the so-called **Moselstellung** – a defensive line against France. 🔩 The fortress is strategically located above the town, overlooking the Moselle Valley. It consists of underground passages, casemates, ammunition depots, and observation towers – some still with their original furnishings. 🎖️ Today, the fort is a museum (accessible only with a guided tour) and offers fascinating insights into military technology, the daily lives of soldiers, and European border history. **Tip:** Tours usually take place on Sundays – check in advance! The path to the fort already offers great views and is a good hiking stage with a historical destination.

🌳 **Parc Napoléon – A Green Oasis in the Heart of Thionville** The **Parc Napoléon** is one of the oldest city parks in Thionville and was created in the 19th century – originally as a military garden under Napoleon's administration. Today, it offers wide paths, ancient giant trees, flowerbeds, playgrounds, and benches for relaxing. 🌼 At its center is a bandstand, occasionally used for small concerts. In spring and summer, the park is particularly lush in bloom – an ideal place for a short break in the heart of the city. **Tip:** Perfect for a relaxing break during your city tour – ideally with a coffee from the nearby bakery.

🏞️ **Manom from the Moselle side – Village idyll with a view** From the opposite side of the Moselle, **Manom** reveals itself at its most beautiful: Nestled in rolling hills, with views of church towers, rooftops, and green fields, the village looks almost like a painting. The contrast between nature, water, and the tranquil townscape is particularly charming. 🚶‍♂️ A short riverside path or a detour over the bridge near Thionville is worthwhile – ideal for photo opportunities or a quiet rest with a view. **Tip:** The best view is in the late afternoon, when the sun bathes the village in warm light. Perfect for a short break on the banks of the Moselle.

🧱 **Tour aux Puces** – Thionville's Oldest Building** The **Tour aux Puces** ("Powder Tower") is a medieval fortified tower dating back to the 11th century – and the oldest surviving building in the city. Originally part of a castle complex, it has served over time as a defense tower, a prison, and now houses a **City Museum** with an archaeological collection. 🏺 Inside, you'll find exhibits from Roman, medieval, and early modern periods – from ceramics to weapons to religious objects. The tower probably got its name from a mistranslation from German to French (“Powder Tower” became “Powder Tower”). **Tip:** The tower is cool and quiet – perfect on hot days. From the top, you have a small but excellent view over the old town. Combine it with the Belfry and the Église Saint-Maximin for a historical tour.