Attractions and Places To See around Malancourt - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Malancourt, a commune in the Meuse department of northeastern France, are primarily centered around its significant World War I history. The area features numerous historical sites and memorials commemorating the Battle of Verdun and the Meuse-Argonne Offensive. Beyond its historical importance, the region offers natural landscapes along the Meuse Canal and the Aire Valley, providing opportunities for cycling and scenic views.
Best attractions and places to see around Malancourt
- The most popular attractions is…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Cumières-le-Mort-Homme
Highlight • Other
It was in February 1916 that the heaviest fighting took place. …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Church of Forges-sur-Meuse
Highlight • Religious 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
Mort-Homme Memorial
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
War monument
Highlight • Other
Erected in 1927 by the state of Pennsylvania, this neoclassical monument honors the American soldiers from Pennsylvania who helped liberate Varennes in 1918. Designed in …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Cycle path along the Meuse Canal
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Malancourt.
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
Nice gravel along the Maas side. You will find here now and then a bank and now and then a lock. Also striking how much higher the water of the canal is compared to the water of the stream.
5
1
This church, dedicated to Saint-Baudel, originally dates from the 11th century, as evidenced by the use of the typical opus spicatum masonry in the north wall. Over the centuries, the building has been modified and restored several times, resulting in a striking mix of architectural styles. Inside, you will find wooden seating boxes for the faithful and a 19th-century pulpit – silent witnesses to religious life in this village on the Meuse. Note the symbolic animal figures at the ends of the roof beams.
7
0
Mémorial de Pennsylvania – Varennes-en-Argonne Erected in 1927 by the state of Pennsylvania, this neoclassical monument honors the American soldiers from Pennsylvania who helped liberate Varennes in 1918. Designed in the Greek style, the monument offers impressive views over the Aire Valley and bears the words of President Wilson: “The right is more precious than peace”.
7
0
The Maas Canal, with its pleasant relaxing gravel strips, is the guideline for enjoying a peaceful landscape.
5
1
The Saint Martin's Church was destroyed during the Battle of Verdun. After the Great War, the Saint Martin's Church was restored. The opening took place in the presence of Bishop Jean-Paul Gusching, Bishop of Verdun. Note that the church, before it was destroyed in 14-18, originally stood in the old village. Triggered to the full story? You can read it here on the large information board.
6
0
Villages détruits, Cumières-le-Mort-Homme is one of the nine villages that were destroyed during the Battle of Verdun. Historical context: Nine villages: Beaumont-en-Verdunois, Bezonvaux, Cumières-le-Mort-Homme, Douaumont, Fleury-devant-Douaumont, Haumont-près-Samogneux, Louvemont-Côte-du-poivre, Ornes and Vaux-devant-Damloup. They were all in the “Red Zone” of the front line in the Battle of Verdun. The villages were wiped off the map and never rebuilt. Erected chapels remind passers-by of this war horror. Triggered to the disappeared villages? Click through to https://www.landofmemory.eu/nl/sites-historiques/vernielde-dorpen/#:~:text=Vernielde%20dorpen,-In%20de%20Maasstreek&text=Deze%20dorpen%20zijn%20Beaumont%2Den,geveegd%20en%20never%20weer%20opopbouw.
4
1
The German offensive to conquer Verdun began in February 1916. In early March, the fighting took place on the heights of Mort-Homme. The French put up a heroic resistance under a torrent of fire. In this sector, 10,000 poilus died. Monument du Mort-Homme, by sculptor Jacques Froment-Meurice. The soldier's skeleton detaches itself from its shroud and lets out its cry of victory. On one arm, he carries a flag, the symbol of the nation for which he sacrificed himself, and on the other arm, he waves the torch of victory. At the foot of the monument, the phrase "They have not passed" recalls the sacrifice of French fighters for the possession and preservation of this observation hill on the left bank of the Meuse. The village of Cumières, declared a "dead village for France", became Cumières le Mort-Homme in 1922. In memory of the village, the Saint-Rémi chapel was built with the stones of the old church, in the middle of an enclosure, preceded by a monument to remind us that there was a peaceful village here. More information on https://www.tourisme-verdun.com/decouverte/post/site-du-mort-homme
1
0
Cumières-le-Mort-Homme (with the predestined name) is one of the eight completely destroyed villages in the red zone of Verdun. It was in February 1916 that the heaviest fighting took place. 10,000 hairy people died in this sector. In 1922, the town was declared a "dead village for France". Two kilometers in the woods of the hill, you find the statue of the sculptor Jacques Froment-Meurice which is related to the event.
3
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites related to World War I can I visit around Malancourt?
The Malancourt area is rich in World War I history. You can visit Cumières-le-Mort-Homme, one of the 'dead villages' completely destroyed during the Battle of Verdun, where a chapel and monument commemorate the past. Another significant site is the Mort-Homme Memorial, dedicated to the French 69th Division soldiers who fell on the 'Mort Homme' hill. The village of Malancourt itself played a crucial role, witnessing the first use of flamethrowers and heavy casualties, with a roadside memorial marking these events.
Are there any notable monuments or memorials in the region?
Yes, beyond the Mort-Homme Memorial, you can find the Pennsylvania Memorial in Varennes-en-Argonne. Erected in 1927, this neoclassical monument honors American soldiers from Pennsylvania who helped liberate Varennes in 1918 and offers impressive views over the Aire Valley.
What natural features or scenic views can I enjoy near Malancourt?
The region offers peaceful natural landscapes. You can enjoy the Cycle path along the Meuse Canal, which provides a relaxing route with gravel strips and scenic views of the waterway. Additionally, the Pennsylvania Memorial offers impressive panoramic views over the Aire Valley.
What outdoor activities are available around Malancourt?
The area around Malancourt is excellent for outdoor activities, particularly cycling and hiking. You can explore various routes, such as those found in the Road Cycling Routes around Malancourt guide, or the Cycling around Malancourt guide. For hikers, there are trails like the 'Mort Homme Monument loop from Marre' and other options in the Hiking around Malancourt guide.
Are there any family-friendly activities or sites in the Malancourt area?
While many sites are historically significant, the Mort-Homme Memorial is listed as family-friendly, offering an educational experience about the region's past. The peaceful Cycle path along the Meuse Canal is also suitable for families looking for a gentle outdoor activity.
What is the best time of year to visit Malancourt?
The region's historical sites and outdoor paths are generally accessible throughout the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for cycling and hiking, with fewer crowds. Summer provides longer daylight hours, while winter visits might offer a more somber, reflective experience at the memorials, though some historical sites may have reduced opening hours.
Are there any religious or architectural landmarks to see?
Yes, the Church of Forges-sur-Meuse, dedicated to Saint-Baudel, is an interesting architectural landmark. Dating back to the 11th century with its distinctive opus spicatum masonry, it showcases a mix of styles from centuries of modifications and restorations, and features 19th-century wooden seating and a pulpit.
Can I bring my dog on trails or to attractions around Malancourt?
Many outdoor trails, such as those along the Meuse Canal or in the surrounding forests, are generally dog-friendly, especially if kept on a leash. For specific historical sites or memorials, it's advisable to check local regulations or signage regarding pet access, as policies can vary.
What are the 'destroyed villages' of Verdun, and can I visit them?
Malancourt is part of a group of nine villages (including Beaumont-en-Verdunois, Cumières-le-Mort-Homme, and Douaumont) that were completely wiped off the map during the Battle of Verdun and never rebuilt. These 'dead villages for France' are significant historical sites. You can visit locations like Cumières-le-Mort-Homme, where chapels and monuments serve as poignant reminders of the communities that once stood there.
Where can I find parking near the main attractions in Malancourt?
Parking availability varies by site. For major memorials and historical sites like Mort-Homme Memorial or Cumières-le-Mort-Homme, there are typically designated parking areas nearby. For smaller sites or trailheads, roadside parking might be available. It's always recommended to look for specific parking information for each destination upon arrival.
Are there any cafes or restaurants in Malancourt or nearby villages?
Malancourt itself is a small commune, but surrounding villages and towns in the Meuse department will offer a selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can find local cuisine and refreshments. It's a good idea to check options in slightly larger nearby towns for more choices.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Malancourt?
Visitors often appreciate the profound historical significance of the World War I sites, finding them deeply moving and educational. The peaceful atmosphere of the natural landscapes, such as the Cycle path along the Meuse Canal, is also highly valued for its tranquility and scenic beauty. The komoot community has shared over 22 photos and given more than 30 upvotes, highlighting the area's appeal.
Most popular routes around Malancourt
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:
