The best MTB trails around Gorcy

The first cross encountered on this walk

My heart's Gaume. All my youth in Gaume.

The Trench of Gates: Gateway to Gaume, Gateway to Legends 1. What is it? Physical Description The Trench of Gates is a deep and spectacular rocky gorge, naturally carved by the Vire River (a tributary of the Semois) into the sandstone plateau of the Gaume forest. Located in the village of Dampicourt (commune of Rouvroy), on the French border, it forms a narrow and winding notch, framed by high sandstone walls and strangely shaped rocks. Its name comes from its topography: the site gives the impression of crossing several successive natural "gates." 2. A Strategic Position: Military History The true fame of the Trench of Gates comes from its historical role as a natural fortress and strategic border post. A Gallic Stronghold? : Its easily defensible configuration suggests that it was used as a refuge since the Gallic era. The Roman Fort: Its strategic role became evident during the Roman era. The Romans established a castellum (a fortified camp) there to control the passage between Belgic Gaul and Imperial Trier, and to protect the nearby Roman road. Remains of these fortifications were still visible several centuries ago. A Millennial Challenge: Due to its position on the border, the site has been contested and fortified throughout history, from the Middle Ages to modern wars. It offered an ideal control point over one of the few passable passages through the region's wooded terrain.

The trail from this viewpoint is a real balancing challenge towards the end, very rocky with large gravel. It seems to me that a few years ago the trail was not so perilous. It is part of the official permanent route "La Croix Renson en Gaume" which advises to do it clockwise, so this uphill trail is impossible! Except for a trialist with Hulk legs and a motorcycle traction. 🙄

Very good path coming from above West which descends without difficulty, watch out for barbed wire on the left separating the private plot. At the bottom, 2 fords to cross at low level and for a moment you find yourself between two streams.

The Virton Tourist Information Office welcomes you to the heart of the Gaume region and invites you to discover this charming town in the province of Luxembourg. You can find them at the following address: Rue des Grasses Oies, 2b, Virton. Please note: closed on Sundays and Mondays. Open other days from 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM and from 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM.

Under the NATO agreements, the air forces across the Atlantic established strategic bases in Europe, including Marville, in the Meuse department (France). In 1955, Virton, like Florenville and Longuyon in France, welcomed hundreds of Canadian military pilots from the 1st Wing seeking refuge for themselves and their families. The Canadian period was deeply affecting the lives of the residents of Virton, and such strong bonds of friendship were forged that a celebration was organized for their departure on March 11, 1967. The totem from Canada that they presented to Virton and Longuyon in France was a special sign of recognition and gratitude for the excellent way in which the residents had welcomed the Canadians. This gesture has special significance, as totems held a deeper meaning among Native Americans. In 1992, the original totem, which had been severely damaged, was recreated identically by Claude Goffinet and inaugurated on October 30th. (Visit Wallonia)

easy with children