The best cycling routes around Sempigny

Calvin's birthplace is dedicated to the famous reformer born here in 1509. Rebuilt after its destruction during the First World War, it now houses a museum retracing the life and work of John Calvin, as well as the religious and humanist history of his time. It houses a rich collection of portraits, ancient works, documents, and 16th-century furniture.

We used the abbey park for our breakfast. A wonderful place for a break. 🫖🥖

The Château Mennechet is a historic castle located in Chiry-Ourscamp, in the Hauts-de-France region. The castle was built at the end of the 19th century by Alphonse Mennechet de Barival, a wealthy and learned man. It was originally intended as a richly decorated gallery, but it was never completed. Architecture: The castle is an example of neo-Gothic architecture with beautiful sculptural decorations. The building is surrounded by an ornate garden and has an imposing facade with detailed stonework. The ruins of the castle can still be admired and offer a unique insight into the rich history and culture of the region.

Ourscamp Abbey is located a few kilometers from Noyon, in the upper Oise Valley. Founded in 1129, it is the second-oldest Cistercian abbey in Picardy. It has been destroyed and rebuilt several times. Its longevity and conflicts have contributed to the abbey's transformations: from religious building to hospital and manufactory; over the centuries, it has served various purposes. Admire the ruins of the abbey church's Gothic choir, a magnificent stone structure. The nave, of which nothing remains, had nine sides, now symbolized by pine trees. Finally, the 13th-century sickbay, also known as the mortuary, is also worth a visit. Anecdotally: the abbey's name dates back to the 7th century. In 641, King Dagobert's advisor began construction, and according to the story, he used a bear to transport the heaviest materials...

The Noyon war memorial is a shell-shaped memorial pillar standing on the cathedral forecourt. This monument is the work of architects Eugène Chifflot and René Lefèvre. The monument includes a bas-relief sculpted by Emile Pinchon and illustrating scenes from life in Noyon during and after the conflict. It recalls in particular the hostage-taking of September 29, 1914, the entry of the French on March 18, 1917 and Noyon in ruins in 1918. This war memorial was inaugurated under the aegis of Marshal Joffre on March 22, 1925.

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Noyon is an impressive Gothic building in the heart of Noyon, in the Oise department. Built between 1145 and 1235, the cathedral is a major religious and cultural monument. It exemplifies the transition from Romanesque to Gothic architecture. The cathedral is 103.11 meters long (exterior) and 91.33 meters (interior), with a nave height of 22.73 meters. The interior is richly decorated with works of art and features a magnificent Merklin organ from 1898. The cathedral also has a Louis XVI-style high altar.

Deserves to be renovated

The Port de plaisance de Pont l'Évêque is a marina located in the municipality of Pont-l'Évêque, in the Oise department. It offers beautiful views of the side channel to the Oise and is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the tranquility of the area. There are several snack bars where you can enjoy a cup of coffee or a drink.