Located in the shadow of the stone giant, Foisches is the silent guardian of the Fort of CharlemontThis peaceful village on the Givet plateau shares a unique history and territory with the largest fortress in the Ardennes Valley. Much more than just a neighbor, Foisches was a key element in its defense, housing advanced fortified works on its land, such as the “Foisches Lens”.
Today, this authentic village offers a striking contrast: on one side, the absolute calm of its streets lined with traditional farms; on the other, immediate access to one of the most important historical sites in Europe.
Choosing Foisches for your stay means choosing a haven of tranquility, a strategic base camp for exploring Givet and the Pointe, while sleeping close to history, where Vauban's soldiers stood guard.
Why stay in Foisches?
- Because of its unique connection with Charlemont: The village is one with the fortress, offering a unique view of its defenses.
- For absolute peace and quiet: A refuge village, free from traffic and noise, just 5 minutes by car from the center of Givet.
- For authenticity: Discover the architecture of the plateau farms (block houses) and a preserved rural atmosphere.
- Due to its strategic position: The ideal starting point for visiting Givet, Hierges and Fromelennes without the constraints of the city.
Foisches in brief: The essentials to know
Here is the identity card of this discreet village, but essential to the history of the Pointe de Givet.
Village identity card
Region: Grand East
Department : Ardennes (08)
Territory: Val d'Ardenne
Intermunicipal cooperation: CC Ardenne, Rives de Meuse
Population: 252 inhabitants (INSEE census 2021)
Area: 4,65 km²
Kind: The people of Foische and the women of Foische
Postal code : 08600
Reference point: Located on the plateau, on the immediate edge of the Fort of Charlemont and Givet.
A bit of history: Vauban's "Lunette"
The history of Foisches is inextricably linked to military strategy. When Vauban designed the defenses of Givet and Charlemont, he identified the Foisches plateau as a weak point: an enemy could set up there to bombard the citadel.
To counter this threat, advanced defensive works were built there. The most famous is the “Foisches’s telescope”, a fortified redoubt (a structure in the shape of a “half-moon”) designed to monitor the plateau and protect the “rear” of Charlemont. The village of Foisches was therefore on the front line of the defense of the “Gate of France”.
What to see and do in Foisches?
A visit to Foisches is a stroll through rural and military history.
The Foisches Lunette and the Fortifications
Today, these military structures are part of the vast Fort of Charlemont complex. A stroll along the edge of the village and the fortress allows you to appreciate the scale of this defensive system. It's a unique walking destination, following in the footsteps of the military engineers, with breathtaking views of the ramparts.
St. Martin's Church
In the center of the village, the Church of Saint-Martin is the heart of the community. This 18th-century building, remodeled many times, is a charming example of a plateau church, built with local stone (blue stone from Givet and rubble).
The “Old Village” and its Farms
Take the time to stroll through the streets of Foisches to admire the rural architecture. You will see some superb block-style farms (or “ground block”), like the Templar farm, typical of the Ardennes, where the dwelling, stable and barn are combined under one roof. These stone buildings bear witness to a rich agricultural past.
Outdoor activities and nature
The Foisches plateau is a peaceful playground for nature lovers.
Hiking
The Tour of Charlemont: Foisches is the ideal starting point for a hike that goes around the fortress walls. A walk combining history and nature.
The Plateau Trails: Numerous rural paths connect Foisches to landrichamps et Ranchesoffering easy walks through fields and groves.
Road cycling
The plateau is a popular area for cycle tourists. The small roads (like the D139) are quiet and offer beautiful open landscapes, a welcome contrast after the narrow valley.
5 minutes from the Trans-Ardennes Green Way
If Foisches is on the heights, the Green Route (EuroVelo 19) is just down the road! In 5 minutes by car, you can reach Givet, park your vehicle and set off for a safe day of cycling along the Meuse, towards Chooz or Haybes.
Around Foisches: The Heart of the Pointe
By staying in Foisches, you are literally at the center of everything.
Givet & Fort de Charlemont (2 min away): That's your neighbor! The visit of Fort of Charlemont is obvious, just like the town centre of Givet, its marina and the RIVÉA aquatic centre.
Yesterday (at 10 min): Under no circumstances should you miss the medieval gem of Yesterday, with its castle, its mill and its cobbled streets.
Fromelennes (10 min away): Dive into the legends of the Cave of Nichet, an underground adventure for the whole family.
Charnois (10-15 min away): Climb up to the Charnois viewpoint for a breathtaking view of the Chooz loop.
Foisches: Practical Information
🍽️ Where to eat in Foisches?
Foisches is a residential village without a restaurant, guaranteeing your peace and quiet. For dining options, the town of Given, a 5-minute drive away, offers a very wide choice of breweries, chip shops and restaurants for all tastes.
🛌 Where to stay in Foisches?
That's the village's primary purpose! Foisches is a prime destination for renting a charming cottage or an bed and breakfastYou will find superb renovated farmhouses there, offering peace, space and gardens, all at the foot of the fortress.
To find your peaceful accommodation, consult our page Accommodation.
🚗 How to get here and park?
By car : Access to Foisches is via exclusively by carFrom Givet, follow the signs for Fort de Charlemont, then take the D139.
By train : The nearest train station is Givet (terminus of the TER Givet – Charleville-Mézières line). A car is then essential.
parking: Parking is easy and free throughout the village.
ℹ️ Information point
For any further information, please contact the team atVal d'Ardenne Tourist Office – Givet Branch (Quai des Fours) is available just a 5-minute drive away.