The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Laon

Inaugurated on April 16, 2013, the observation tower overlooks the Plateau de Californie, a strategic location during the war on the Chemin des Dames. Standing at a height of 20 meters and freely accessible, it offers a historical perspective on the landscapes and serves as a reminder of the importance of high points during the war. It also offers visitors who climb it an incomparable view of the village of Craonne below, as well as the Chemin des Dames and the Champagne plain. Equipped at its summit with a blue lighthouse, put into operation at night, the observation tower constitutes a beacon of memory in the landscape. Allowing a view of the plain of Reims during the day, it is, in a reverse movement, visible at night from this plain. 

On the Plateau de Californie, above the former village of Craonne, stands a 20-metre-high watchtower that was inaugurated in 2013. This tower offers a panoramic view of the battlefield of the Chemin des Dames and allows visitors to understand the strategic importance of this height during the First World War. The tower is freely accessible and equipped with information panels that historically explain the landscape.

The ramparts

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.

This abbey, which was founded in 1134 by St. Bernard, was severely damaged in a bombardment in 1917. The best preserved buildings are the pantry, the refectory of the lay brothers, the chapter house and the monks' hall. The foundations of the abbey church and the inn are still visible. Next to the garden with medicinal plants there is an exhibition space. Surrounding it is the monastic forest of Vauvelair, which covers 1000 hectares.

Coucy Castle is a magnificent castle built in the 13th century by Enguerrand III, Lord of Coucy. It was one of the largest and most impressive castles in Europe, with a massive keep and four towers dominating the landscape. The castle was partially destroyed during the First World War, but its ruins still bear witness to its past glory. You can discover the castle and its history by participating in the Trail Enguerrand, a running race that takes you around the castle and its surroundings. The race is 30 km long, with 700 m of altitude difference, and it offers breathtaking views of the castle and the countryside. You can also opt for a shorter distance of 15 km, with 370 m of elevation gain. The race takes place in April and you can register online on the official website. By hiking this trail, you will not only get a good workout, but also a cultural and historical experience.

The California Plateau is a historic site that was the scene of fierce battles during World War I. Today it is a wooded area with trails that offer panoramic views of the Aisne Valley and the remains of trenches and shell craters. The plateau is classified as a red zone, which means that the ground is still contaminated by explosives and chemical weapons. You must not deviate from marked trails and respect signs indicating dangerous areas. The plateau is also a place of memory and commemoration for the soldiers who fought and died there.

The California Plateau Observation Tower is a wooden tower inaugurated in 2013 that stands 20 meters high on the eastern edge of the California Plateau, a strategic site during the First World War. From the top of the tower, you can admire the landscape of the Chemin des Dames, the village of Craonne and the Champagne plain. You can also discover the importance of the high points during the war and the battles that took place on this plateau. The tower is freely accessible all year round, but may be closed in case of bad weather. The California Plateau Observation Tour is a unique place to discover the history and beauty of this region.