Want to extend summer? The Ardennes region is brimming with ideas to keep young and old entertained, away from screens and close to nature. Forests, animals, thrills, culture and crafts: Here are 10 activities to share as a family...for suitcases full of memories!
RECHARGE YOUR CHARGE IN NATURE
1. The Argonne Discovery Park
Encounters with wildlife
In the heart of the Argonne Forest, the Argonne Discovery Park offers an immersive and respectful approach to wildlife, with around fifty species to observe, including wolves, birds of prey, wallabies, and farm animals. Activities are offered daily: narrated wolf feedings, live animal shows, a giant owl, and bouncy hammocks in the trees for the more adventurous. The park celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2025!
2. Noah's Ark in Éteignières
An educational farm full of surprises
Nestled in the village of Éteignières, the educational farm L'Arche de Noé offers over 150 animals to discover along a one-kilometer trail: pigs, goats, donkeys, cows, camelids, ostriches, snakes, tortoises… A member of the Ardennes Nature & Adventures network, the farm offers a warm welcome and activities suitable for all ages. A sure bet for families with young children!
3. A donkey ride
The donkey ride
To slow down and savor nature in a different way, Emmanuel and his donkeys offer guided walks or self-guided hikes through the forests and across the Ardennes plateaus. The pack donkeys carry loads and children with great pleasure, and any distance is possible. A gentle and memorable activity in the heart of the Ardennes Regional Natural Park.
4. The Liart Educational Farm
From wheat to bread, from milking to cheese
The Liart Educational Farm welcomes families and groups to its facilities, which are certified for accessibility for people with disabilities, for half-day or full-day themed visits. The program includes: "Apprentice Farmer," "From Wheat to Bread," "From Milking to Cheese," "The Three Little Pigs," and even special mornings for children aged 0-3 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. It's the perfect place to introduce young children to the rhythms of farm life.
5. The Charleville-Mézières Animal Park
Nature in the city
Just a short distance from Charleville-Mézières, the Saint-Laurent animal park offers a lovely green getaway for families, with animals to observe in a natural setting accessible to all. A simple and free outing to enjoy the last days of good weather.
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE
6. The TerrAltitude Park in Fumay
adventure in the trees
Nestled in a protected forest in the Meuse Valley, TerrAltitude offers 120 games spread across 15 treetop adventure courses, suitable for all ages and skill levels. For thrill-seekers, the Fantasticable allows you to soar over the Meuse River for 1,2 km at speeds exceeding 120 km/h. A paintball field, accessible from age 8, and a snack bar overlooking the attractions complete the experience.
7. Elfy Park at Lac des Vieilles Forges
A magical world by the water
Elfy Park is the enchanting world of Elfy, a giant troll created by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, the first to be installed in France. The park offers a multitude of games that blend fun and education: summer tobogganing, treehouses, a sea of nets, zip lines, slides, sound games, a storytelling area… All in a magical setting on the shores of Lac des Vieilles Forges in Les Mazures.
8. The Vendresse Estate
Nature, fish and industrial heritage
Nestled in a verdant setting between forests and ponds, the Domaine de Vendresse blends industrial heritage, biodiversity, and family activities. Its blast furnace, one of the best preserved in France, comes to life through an immersive multimedia show. Children love the educational ponds and the chance to pet the fish, not to mention Bébert, the site's nearly 46-year-old sturgeon mascot. Three ponds also offer opportunities for fishing, and a waterside restaurant completes the day.
DISCOVER HERITAGE WHILE HAVING FUN
9. The Fort of Charlemont in Givet
History as a playground
Perched on a rocky spur overlooking the Meuse River, the Charlemont fort is a major landmark of French military heritage, its construction dating back to 1555. But there's no chance of getting bored: the site now offers treetop adventure courses on the ramparts, laser tag, escape rooms, all-terrain electric scooters, a tourist train, and family-friendly games. A perfect place for a full day of history and adrenaline!
10. The Felt Museum-Workshop
Create with your own hands
Unique in France, the Felt Museum in Mouzon invites you to discover the oldest textile in the world, showcasing Turkish collections and demonstrations of machinery from the former factory. The museum offers felting workshops for adults and children: using wools of different colors, each participant creates their own unique piece and takes it home. An original activity, ideal for a cloudy day!
LOOKING FOR OTHER ACTIVITIES?
Find more ideas for family outings by consulting the various resources available on the ardennes.com website ⬇️
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