The best cycling routes around Sermoise

In Soupir, in the Aisne, the castle's triumphal arch unexpectedly emerges amidst the fields. The last vestige of the Château de Soupir, this monumental stone gateway intrigues as much by its presence as by the story it tells. The edifice has had an extraordinary destiny, passing through the hands of a knight of Louis XIV who went to fight in the Indies, a rich heiress, an orphan who became a millionaire, or even a murdered newspaper director. A unique stop on the routes of the Chemin des Dames.

Small 20th century village church, built on the site of an older, possibly medieval church. Situated next to the town hall and cemetery, it forms the religious heart of the village. The church is dedicated to Saint Medard, a popular patron saint in Northern France. The village was destroyed after WWI, but the church was only slightly damaged.

The Chapelle Sainte-Marguerite in Bucy-le-Long is a charming 12th-century Romanesque building surrounded by an ancient cemetery that gives it an almost timeless feel. Although badly damaged during the First World War, it was lovingly restored and was listed as a monument in 19202. Inside, you’ll find a mix of period features and modern additions, including colorful stained glass windows depicting the life of Saint Margaret. Local legend has it that even Joan of Arc once stopped here—a place where history and legend collide.

The coat of arms of Bucy-le-Long is a historical coat of arms with elegant symbolism: “D’azur à la bande d’or accompagnée de trois fleurons d’or, deux rangés en chief, un en pointe.” That is to say: a blue shield with a diagonal gold band, accompanied by three gold floral motifs—two at the top and one at the bottom2. This coat of arms is derived from that of Thierry II, Knight of Bucy in the 13th century, whose grandson Simon Matifas became Bishop of Paris and enriched the family coat of arms with these fleurons as a symbol of his ecclesiastical dignity. A fine piece of heraldry that reflects the medieval roots of the village.

great hike on foot and by mountain bike. see hiking the mountains of Missy see you in 2025. To discover .

Along this canal towpath you can enjoy the wide open spaces, the perfect path and views of the surrounding villages and churches.

These 19th-century forts had already lost their invincibility in the second half of the century and were more of a "belt of remnants" that no longer played a major strategic role. It was only when the Chemin des Dames became a deadlock as a front area that they became relevant again for a short time. Here you can feel this survived history well, the cellar-like bunkering on the mountain. Almost a small green overgrown labyrinth today....

Fun cross country to do on a mountain bike.