Attractions and places to see around Pelves, a commune in the Pas-de-Calais department of Hauts-de-France, France, include a variety of historical, cultural, and natural sites. Situated near the River Scarpe and close to cities like Arras and Douai, the region offers diverse points of interest. Visitors can explore significant landmarks, cultural institutions, and natural features such as riverbanks and ancient megalithic sites. The area provides opportunities for outdoor activities and historical exploration.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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a very pleasant treetop adventure course is taking shape on this route inside the citadel
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The Seven Bonnettes are a fascinating megalithic site, surrounded by legends and mysteries. Located in a picturesque valley, this 75 meter high mound is crowned with standing stones forming a crown. According to legend, these stones represent six young girls and a musician, transformed into statues by Heaven for having danced instead of attending vespers.
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They are part of the unknown treasures of Arras and the Pays d'Artois. The various megalithic sites are good for a beautiful walk, among mysteries and legends, history and extraordinary landscapes. Set sail for the Scarpe valley and the Sensée valley, in the wake of the megaliths of the Pays d'Artois.
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Small mythical location. The stone pillars on top have already made many passers-by think. They are part of the unknown treasures of Arras and the Pays d'Artois. The various megalithic sites are good for a beautiful walk, among mysteries and legends, history and extraordinary landscapes. Set sail for the Scarpe valley and the Sensée valley, in the wake of the megaliths of the Pays d'Artois.
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A unique architectural whole The citadel of Arras was never besieged, hence its nickname “the belle inutile”, and is a well-preserved witness of the military buildings of the 17th century.
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Once past the Porte Royale you will immediately see the Timescope on the side of the Saint-Louis chapel. This takes you back to 1678, 10 years after the start of the construction of this citadel on behalf of King Louis XIV of Vauban.
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The story goes that once the people of the country showed the scratches produced, according to legend, by the claws of the demon when he seized the stone. Streaks do indeed appear on two sides of the menhir… But are they the same as before or do they come from the destruction of the stone in 1918
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You can visit the citadel of Arras, a remarkable place in France. Vauban built it in the 1600s and it has preserved a rich legacy from its 300 years of military use. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008 after they demilitarized it. You can enjoy historic buildings, green trails and fun activities in this “small city within a city”.
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The region around Pelves is rich in history. You can explore the Arras Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site built by Vauban, offering insights into three centuries of military history. Another significant landmark is the Arras Town Hall and Belfry, also a UNESCO site, providing panoramic views of the city. Additionally, the poignant La Carrière Wellington, a network of WWI tunnels, is located nearby.
Yes, the valleys of the Scarpe and Sensée rivers are home to fascinating megalithic sites. You can visit Les Bonnettes, a site with stone pillars shrouded in local legends. Another notable site is The Menhir of Lécluse or the Devil's Stone, a classified historical monument with its own intriguing stories.
For nature lovers, the Scarpe riverbanks offer a peaceful greenway for walking and cycling along the Scarpe Canal. The region is also home to the Parc Naturel Régional Scarpe-Escaut, France's first regional natural park, providing opportunities to enjoy forests, meadows, and peat bogs.
Absolutely. The Scarpe riverbanks feature a greenway (Voie Verte) that is perfect for walking and cycling, connecting rural and urban areas. For more structured outdoor activities, you can find various routes for hiking and mountain biking. Explore options like the 'Lakes and Marshes of Roeux Trail' for hiking or 'The Grandes Pairies – The Bastion of Roeux loop' for MTB. You can find more details on hiking around Pelves and MTB trails around Pelves.
Beyond historical landmarks, the area offers significant cultural institutions. The Louvre-Lens Museum, a branch of the famous Louvre, is within a reasonable distance. You can also visit the impressive Arras Town Hall and Belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its architecture and carillon.
Many of the historical and natural sites can be enjoyed by families. The Arras Town Hall and Belfry offers an accessible experience with an elevator to the first collar for views. Exploring the green walking paths at Arras Citadel or cycling along the Scarpe riverbanks are also great options for families.
The region is generally pleasant to visit during spring, summer, and early autumn (April to October) when the weather is mild and conducive to outdoor activities like walking and cycling. Historical sites and museums are typically open year-round, but checking specific opening hours before your visit is recommended.
Yes, there are several easy trails. For instance, the 'Lakes and Marshes of Roeux Trail' is an easy 7.5 km hike. Other easy options include loops around the Blue Lake from Pelves. You can find more details and routes on the hiking around Pelves guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the rich historical heritage, such as the well-preserved Arras Citadel with its green walking paths. The peaceful and scenic Scarpe riverbanks are also highly rated for their pleasant routes for walking and cycling, especially in good weather. The blend of history, culture, and natural beauty is a common highlight.
Yes, Pelves itself hosts a Commonwealth War Graves Commission Cemetery, containing graves from World War II. Additionally, nearby Arras features La Carrière Wellington, a significant World War I site that offers a moving historical experience.
Yes, the area offers various running trails. You can explore routes like the 'Biache-Saint-Vaast marshes loop' which is about 10 km, or the 'Marais du Pont loop from Rœux'. For more options and detailed routes, refer to the running trails around Pelves guide.
Beyond the main attractions, the megalithic sites like Les Bonnettes and The Menhir of Lécluse offer unique explorations into local legends and ancient history amidst extraordinary landscapes. These sites provide a sense of mystery and are less frequented than the larger historical landmarks.


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