Soissons, city of the legendary vase
Soissons, city of the legendary vase
Who broke the famous Soissons vase ? Perhaps you will find the answer during your stay in this dynamic Art and History town ! Enjoy a stroll through the former capital of the Kingdom of France, steeped in history yet a successful blend of ancient and modern architecture. Visit the surrounding villages with their distinctive houses of local white stone and typical stepped gabled roofs known as « Pas de moineaux (literally ‘sparrow steps) ». Many crops, including the famous Soissons haricot bean, are grown in the Soissonais area which stretches from the Forêt de Retz to the Aisne Valley.
Enjoy a « Soissoulet (the local version of cassoulet made with Soissons haricot beans) » evening with friends !
Explore Soissons from the Cathedral to the Donjon de Septmonts
Follow a guide to the top of tower in the Gothic-style cathedral of Saint-Gervais and Saint-Protais for a bird’s eye view of the town. Only the facade remains of the 17th century Abbey of Saint-Jean-des-Vignes but a virtual tour allows visitors to enjoy the whole building in all its splendour. Children love visiting Fort de Condé, a late 19th century military fortification and a venue for numerous events and activities !
Visit the Donjon de Septmonts to see graffiti drawn by Victor Hugo in 1835, the village is well worth a look too. In the Forêt de Retz national forest, known for its remarkable wildlife, climb to the top of the Mangin Observation Tower to admire a view of the treetops as far as the eye can see. Don’t miss the moving sculpture « Les Fantômes de Landowski » at Oulchy-le-Château, a memorial to those who died during the Second Battle of the Marne.
What to see and do in and around Soissons
Heritage attractions, visit with or without a guide, guided walks and themed events.
A choice of walks along designated footpaths, ranging from family micro walks to a full-day hike along the GR12 hiking path.
Cycle paths and mountain bike tracks for enthusiasts of all levels.
Outings on horseback run by riding centres in the Aisne Valley.
Discover major local landmarks from the air with Les Ailes Soissonnaises.
Take to the water for a trip along the River Aisne with Les Voiles du Soissonnais.
Visit shops selling delicious local specialities or pick-your-own fruit and vegetables.
Other activities include « Les Bains du Lac » aquatic complex at Soissons, treetop adventure parks and fishing in rivers and lakes.
Our favourite comment : « I love strolling through the streets of Soissons to spot the many vases which adorn buildings, parks and gardens… I wonder whether you’ll be able to find them all like me ! »
How to get to Soissons
By road : N2 : 1 hour 30 minutes from Paris
N31 : 50 minutes from Reims
A1 A26 et D1 : 1 hour 50 minutes from Lille
E19 et A2 : 2 hours 40 minutes from Brussels
By rail : to Soissons (from Paris - Gare du Nord)
Nearest airport : 1 hour from Roissy – Charles-de-Gaulle
Our selection of accommodations
Lodging
Gîte du Champagne Couvent Fils
in TRELOU-SUR-MARNE - Aisne
