Attractions and Places To See around Martigny-Courpierre - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Martigny-Courpierre, a rural village in the Aisne department of Hauts-de-France, provide access to historical landmarks and natural landscapes. Situated near the city of Laon, the area features significant architectural sites and opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore a region known for its historical heritage and diverse natural settings, including forests and bodies of water.
Best attractions and places to see around Martigny-Courpierre
- The most popular attractions is Notre-Dame Cathedral, a religious…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Vauclair Abbey Ruins
Highlight • Historical Site
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
Porte d'Ardon
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Laon Old Town — Murals and Fortifications
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Porte de Soissons
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Martigny-Courpierre.
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
The Porte d’Ardon is one of the medieval city gates of Laon. The current structure dates from the 13th and 14th centuries. Originally, this gate was called “Porte Royée” because of its proximity to the royal palace of Laon. The gate consists of a châtelet with a portcullis and used to have doors. There was also a barbican, but this has now disappeared. Under the gate there was a fountain and wash houses, some of which still exist. The Porte d’Ardon was classified as a historical monument in 1909.
9
0
The Porte de Soissons is a medieval city gate in Laon. It is one of the three remaining city gates of Laon and was built at the beginning of the 13th century when the fortifications were resumed. The gate is located in the south-west of the medieval city and is built of sandstone and limestone. The gate was originally known as the Porte Saint-Martin or Soibert, but was later renamed after the nearby town of Soissons. The rear of the gate (which was demolished in 1895) offers a cross-section of this type of defensive system: a vaulted room on the first floor, giving access to the harrow and the machicolation.
12
1
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.
3
0
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.
11
0
Between the woods and the greenway, this former abbey is interesting from a historical point of view
0
0
Here, the city walker will find an early masterpiece of Gothic architecture, a style often found in this part of France – Chartres and Reims, for example, attract enthusiastic international visitors and are far more famous than Laon. In the following 13th century, many Gothic churches were built, not only in their country of origin, France, but also beyond the country's borders, where this sky-high, light-filled architectural style was now in great demand for new churches (for example, the laying of the foundation stone for Cologne Cathedral in 1248).
3
0
Loan is a medieval town on a mesa. A trip is very worthwhile! I would always prefer visiting Reims.
1
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I visit near Martigny-Courpierre?
The region around Martigny-Courpierre is rich in history. You can explore the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral in Laon, a prime example of early Gothic architecture. Also, discover the poignant Vauclair Abbey Ruins, founded by St. Bernard and damaged during WWI, which still features well-preserved buildings and a medicinal plant garden. Don't miss the fortified Laon Old Town — Murals and Fortifications, which boasts medieval buildings and is France's largest contiguous protected area.
Are there any unique local landmarks in Martigny-Courpierre itself?
Yes, within Martigny-Courpierre, the Saint-Martin Church is a significant local landmark. Rebuilt in an distinctive Art Deco style after World War I, it features painted interiors by Eugene Chapleau, stained glass, ceramics, and a monumental bell tower adorned with six sculpted angels.
What natural attractions are there for outdoor enthusiasts?
Martigny-Courpierre is situated near several natural features. A portion of the large Lac de l'Ailette is within the commune, offering opportunities for relaxation and water-based activities. The Forest of Vauvelair, a 1000-hectare monastic forest, surrounds the Vauclair Abbey Ruins and is ideal for walks and exploration. The local hydrographic network is also fed by the Ruisseau Bièvre.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Martigny-Courpierre?
The area offers various outdoor activities, especially around Lac de l'Ailette and the surrounding forests. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, running, and gravel biking. For example, explore MTB trails like the 'Vauclair Abbey – Ailles village monument loop' or running trails such as the 'Vauclair Abbey Ruins – View of Lake Ailette loop'. You can find more details and routes on the MTB Trails around Martigny-Courpierre, Running Trails around Martigny-Courpierre, and Gravel biking around Martigny-Courpierre guide pages.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions nearby?
Yes, the Vauclair Abbey Ruins are considered family-friendly, offering a historical site with space to explore, including a medicinal plant garden. Additionally, Axo Plage in Monampteuil, approximately 9.2 km away, is a recreational area likely offering water-based activities and leisure suitable for families.
What are some notable medieval fortifications in the area?
Beyond the general fortifications of Laon Old Town, you can specifically visit the medieval city gates. The Porte d'Ardon, dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, is one of Laon's most beautiful preserved gates. Another significant gate is the Porte de Soissons, built in the early 13th century, which offers insights into medieval military architecture despite some damage.
What is the best time to visit Martigny-Courpierre for outdoor activities?
The region's diverse landscapes, including forests and river valleys, are generally pleasant for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons offer milder weather, making it ideal for exploring historical sites, hiking, cycling, and enjoying the natural features like Lac de l'Ailette.
Are there any places to relax by the water near Martigny-Courpierre?
Yes, a significant portion of Lac de l'Ailette is located within the commune of Martigny-Courpierre. This large lake provides opportunities for relaxation, picnics, and various water-based activities. Additionally, Axo Plage in Monampteuil is a dedicated recreational area by the water.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Martigny-Courpierre?
Visitors appreciate the rich historical significance of the area, particularly the early Gothic architecture of Notre-Dame Cathedral and the atmospheric Vauclair Abbey Ruins. The medieval charm of Laon Old Town, with its fortifications and murals, is also highly rated. The blend of historical exploration with natural beauty, such as the surrounding forests and Lac de l'Ailette, makes the region appealing.
Can I find information about World War I history in the vicinity?
Yes, the region played a significant role in World War I. The Vauclair Abbey Ruins were severely damaged during a bombardment in 1917. For a deeper dive into WWI history, the Caverne du Dragon, Musee du Chemin des Dames, located near Oulches-la-Vallée-Foulon, offers insights into the former front line of the Chemin des Dames.
Are there any hidden gems or less crowded alternatives to explore?
While the main attractions are popular, the small rural commune of Martigny-Courpierre itself offers a calm atmosphere and preserves authentic architecture, providing a glimpse into French rural life away from larger crowds. Exploring the extensive Forest of Vauvelair around the abbey ruins can also offer a more tranquil experience.
Most popular routes around Martigny-Courpierre
Most popular attractions around Martigny-Courpierre
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:
