Attractions and Places To See around Champs - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Champs include historical sites, architectural landmarks, and natural areas. The region offers a variety of points of interest, from medieval castles to scenic forest roads. Visitors can explore structures dating back to the 13th century and enjoy the surrounding landscapes. This area provides opportunities for discovering historical significance and natural beauty.
Best attractions and places to see around Champs
- The most popular attractions is Coucy Castle, a castle that was built in the…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Coucy Castle
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Laon Gate (Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique)
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Saint-Sauveur Church of Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique
Highlight • Religious Site
Tip by
Forest road through the St-Gobain woods
Highlight (Segment) • Other
"Then you come to a crossroads with an old signpost …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Manufacture des Glaces de Saint-Gobain
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Champs.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
In 1692, the Manufacture royale des Grandes Glaces was established in the abandoned castle of Saint-Gobain, which gave the later glass company Saint-Gobain its name. The factory developed and in 1986 it still supplied the glass for the pyramid of the Louvre. In 1993, it was announced that the factory would close and on 31 December 1995 the last activity of this historic establishment disappeared.
7
0
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.
2
0
This medieval gate, built in the 13th century, was part of the impressive fortifications of Coucy-le-Château, a town once famous for its castle and its motto: "I am neither king, nor prince, nor count, I am the lord of Coucy ". The Porte de Laon is a massive structure with two round towers and an arched passage, defended by a drawbridge, a double portcullis and a barbican. You can admire the architecture and military devices of this ancient bastion, as well as the panoramic view of the city and the surrounding countryside.
3
0
Pretty ruins of the Château de Coucy, impressive from afar and from close up.
0
0
Very pretty remains of a castle which dominated the region. An active association which brings medieval magic back to life several times a year.
0
1
Excellent rural forest roads, mostly paved, some good gravel
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Champs?
The Champs region is rich in history. You can visit Coucy Castle, a magnificent 13th-century fortress, and the medieval Laon Gate (Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique), part of the town's impressive fortifications. Another significant historical site is the Saint-Sauveur Church of Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique, with origins dating back to the 12th century.
Are there any natural attractions or scenic routes in the Champs area?
Yes, the region offers natural beauty, particularly the Forest road through the St-Gobain woods. These rural forest roads are part of the oldest hunting grounds of the French royal family and provide excellent opportunities for scenic drives or walks.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Champs is great for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, gravel biking, and road cycling. For example, there are several MTB Trails around Champs, Gravel biking around Champs, and Road Cycling Routes around Champs, offering various distances and difficulty levels through the scenic countryside and forests.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Champs region?
Absolutely. Coucy Castle is considered a family-friendly highlight, offering a fascinating glimpse into medieval history with its impressive ruins. Exploring the castle and its surroundings can be an engaging activity for all ages.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Champs?
Visitors particularly appreciate the historical significance and architectural grandeur of sites like Coucy Castle and the panoramic views from the Laon Gate. The tranquil forest roads, such as those through the St-Gobain woods, are also highly valued for their natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor activities.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic views of the area?
Yes, the Laon Gate (Coucy-le-Château-Auffrique), a medieval gate, offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Additionally, Coucy Castle, with its dominating position, provides excellent vistas.
What is the best time to visit the attractions around Champs?
While specific seasonal recommendations are not detailed, the region's historical sites and forest roads are generally enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring to autumn, when outdoor activities are most pleasant. The Trail Enguerrand race around Coucy Castle takes place in April, suggesting spring is a good time for active exploration.
Can I learn about the industrial history of the Champs region?
Yes, you can explore the history of industry at the Manufacture des Glaces de Saint-Gobain. This site was once home to the Royal Glass Manufactory, which gave the famous Saint-Gobain company its name and supplied glass for significant projects like the Louvre pyramid.
Are there any specific events or races associated with the attractions?
Yes, the Coucy Castle area hosts the Trail Enguerrand, a running race that takes participants around the castle and its surroundings. This event, typically held in April, offers both a good workout and a cultural experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on walking or cycling routes around Champs?
The terrain around Champs features a mix of rural forest roads, some paved and some good gravel, particularly in areas like the St-Gobain woods. Routes can undulate over plateaus, offering varied landscapes suitable for different outdoor activities.
Are there any lesser-known historical gems to discover?
Beyond the prominent castle and gate, the Manufacture des Glaces de Saint-Gobain offers a unique historical perspective on the region's industrial past, showcasing a different facet of its heritage.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
