The best road cycling routes around Vauxtin

The Vauclair Abbey near Bouconville-Vauclair in the Aisne department was founded in 1134 by Bernard of Clairvaux as a Cistercian monastery. In the Middle Ages, it developed into an important monastic complex; it was significantly expanded, particularly in the 13th century. During the First World War, Vauclair was located directly in the combat zone of the Chemin des Dames and was almost completely destroyed by artillery fire in 1917. The ruins visible today have been archaeologically investigated, excavated, and partially secured since the 1960s. Directly next to the ruins, there is now a medicinal herb garden with around 400 species and a conservation orchard. This verger conservatoire preserves old regional apple and pear varieties; according to the French Garden Association, there are about 84 different varieties represented there. Together with the monastery ruins, the site thus commemorates not only the history of the Cistercians but also their close connection to agriculture, horticulture, and botany.

Hidden in the middle of the forest, this Cistercian abbey, founded in 1134 by Bernard of Clairvaux, appears like a mirage. Its majestic ruins bear witness to a turbulent past. From the Hundred Years' War and the French Revolution to the First World War, the abbey suffered considerable destruction. In the 1960s, the site was overgrown with brambles and forgotten. Thanks to the archaeological excavation group "Sources" led by Father Courtois, it experienced a rebirth.

Beautiful quiet place for a walk

Marcel Duquenoy; Small memorial stone along the D18 between the Ferme de la Royère and the Ferme de Malval. It commemorates Marcel Duquenoy, a 20-year-old aspiring officer from Calais in the 350th Infantry Regiment, who was killed in the wood opposite the monument on 6 May 1917 during the Battle of La Malmaison. The inscription is from his parents: “En souvenir de notre fils disparu dans le bois en face” – a personal tribute in a landscape marked by collective loss.

Jean Dauly Memorial; This sober monument commemorates Jean Dauly, a soldier in the 350th Infantry Regiment, who was killed on 6 May 1917 at the age of 20 during heavy fighting in the forest opposite the current location. It stands along the D18 between the Ferme de La Royère and the Ferme de Malval. The inscription bears witness to the personal loss: “Regretté de sa mère, de toute sa famille et de ses comarades. Priez pour lui”.

During the First World War, Cerny-en-Laonnois was a strategic point along the Chemin des Dames, a ridge fiercely contested by French and German troops. In September 1914, the village was taken by the Germans, who used it as a defensive post. They dug deep underground networks in the limestone, which served as shelters and munitions stores. In the spring of 1917, the area became the scene of the Nivelle Offensive, a large-scale French attack that resulted in heavy losses and eventually led to mutinies within the French army. Cerny-en-Laonnois was completely destroyed by artillery fire and fighting. After the war, the village was rebuilt a little further south. Today, the military cemeteries, the memorial chapel and the “Lanterne des Morts” bear witness to the immense human suffering that took place here.

A superb church to see, at the top of a good climb.

A remarkable remnant of what was once a large and important abbey. Caesar, Napoleon and German troops are said to have passed through this area during the First World War.