From one princely town to another

The route runs alongside the River Meuse to Charleville-Mézières, an astonishing double city with the Ville d'Art et d'Histoire (Town of Art and History) label, and the birthplace of Arthur Rimbaud.

Set out on the old towpath, the route starts in Sedan and continues to Charleville-Mézières. With its two "souls" united in 1966 - Mézières, a medieval fortified town, and Charleville, the "ideal" city dreamt up by its Italian creator Charles de Gonzague - the town is a true witness to past centuries. Linger a while on the magnificent Place Ducale and sip a local beer*. With its ochre stones, red bricks and slate roofs, it is reputed to be the most beautiful square in theArdennes!

Of course, the 19th-century poet Arthur Rimbaud is another of the town's must-sees. In the museum dedicated to him, you can immerse yourself in his brilliant work and rich life. The artist can be found all over the city, including at the Maison des Ailleurs, where the Rimbaud family settled and which is now dedicated to the poet.

The world capital of puppetry, Charleville-Mézières also hosts the Festival Mondial des Théâtres de Marionnettes every two years. The town is home to one of the few schools in the world dedicated to this art form! Another cultural highlight is the Cabaret Vert music festival, which brings together some of the biggest names on the national and international scene every year.

*Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, consume in moderation.