Located on the right bank of the MeuseVireux-Wallerand is the vibrant crossroads of the “Pays de Vireux” (the Viroquois). It is the “twin village” of Vireux-Molhain, but while Molhain is the guardian of ancient history, Wallerand is the nerve center, the commercial heart and the obligatory transit point of the region.
This is where theVal d'Ardenne Tourist Office has its headquarters, making this dynamic town the ideal starting point for all your adventures. It is from Vireux-Wallerand that the bridge spanning the Meuse begins, opening the doors to the right bank and the treasures of the medieval village of Yesterday and the fortified church ofaubrives.
Crossed by the Trans-Ardennes Greenway and by the confluence of the Viroin, Vireux-Wallerand is an essential stop, a place of services and life, the perfect base for exploring the valley.
Why visit Vireux-Wallerand?
- The Ideal Starting Point: This is where you will find the main Tourist Office to guide you.
- The Bridge towards Hierges: This is the mandatory passage point for cyclists on the Green Way wishing to visit the medieval jewel of Hierges.
- A key stage of the Green Way: The village is on the route (EuroVelo 19) and has all services (restaurants, shops).
- The Heart of Viroquois: It forms a “whole” with Vireux-Molhain, giving you access to the Roman Camp and the Collegiate Church.
- The Gateway to the Viroin Valley: This is the starting point for exploring this charming river and its transboundary nature park.
Vireux-Wallerand in brief: The essentials you need to know
Here is the identity card of this central town, at the confluence of the Meuse and the Viroin.
Village identity card
Region: Grand East
Department : Ardennes (08)
Territory: Val d'Ardenne
Intermunicipal cooperation: CC Ardenne, Rives de Meuse
Population: 6,356 inhabitants (INSEE census 2021)
Area: 21,07 km²
Kind: The Viroquois and the Viroquoises
Postal code : 08320
Reference point: Located on the right bank of the Meuse, at the confluence of the Viroin, it faces Hierges and Aubrives (left bank).
A bit of history: The “Vireux Neuf”
The history of the “two Vireux” is complex. If Molhain (the “Vireux-le-Vieux”) and its Mont Vireux represent the ancient and religious center, Vireux-Wallerand (the “Vireux-le-Neuf” or “Vireux-sur-Meuse”) developed later.
Its rise is linked to its position of crossroadsThe construction of the bridge over the Meuse made it a strategic crossing point for the timber, iron, and slate trade, linking the two banks and the Viroin valley to the Meuse river system. The village also has an industrial past (foundries, nail factories) which shaped its character as a working-class and commercial town.
What to see and do in Vireux-Wallerand?
Vireux-Wallerand is a place to live and pass through, offering wonderful discoveries.
The Castle Square and the Tourist Office
This is your starting point! The Castle Square is the heart of the city.
The “Castle” (Town Hall): The imposing building that dominates the square is the Town Hall, a 19th-century “castle” style building, a symbol of past prosperity.
The Tourist Office: This is where you will find maps, advice, and the keys to visiting the Collegiate Church of Molhain.
The Vireux Bridge: The Gateway to the Middle Ages
Borrow it bridge over the MeuseIt's more than just a structure, it's a viewpoint.
The Panorama: It offers an unobstructed view of the quays of Vireux-Wallerand, the Meuse, and in the distance, the silhouette of the village of Hierges clinging to the hill.
Link to the Left Bank: This is the obligatory passage for cyclists and pedestrians towards Hierges and Aubrives.
St. George's Church
Located in the heart of the town centre, the Church of Saint George (19th century) is the parish church of Vireux-Wallerand. It is distinguished by its beautiful proportions and its stained glass windows.
The Confluence of the Viroin
Take a walk where the Viroin flows into the Meuse (on the border between Wallerand and Molhain). It is a charming place, a natural “port” for small boats and a renowned fishing spot.
Outdoor activities and nature
Vireux-Wallerand is the ideal base for nature activities, at the crossroads of the valleys.
The Trans-Ardennes Green Route (EuroVelo 19)
The cycle path EuroVelo 19 passes right through the heart of Vireux-Wallerand, on the banks of the Meuse.
The perfect “Base Camp”: With its shops, restaurants and Tourist Office, it's the ideal stop for a logistical break.
Heading North: Pedal towards Aubrives, chooz, Ham sur Meuse et Given.
Heading South: Join Haybes et Fumay (TerrAltitude).
The Starting Point towards Hierges
For cyclists, this is a crucial decision point. This is where you can leave the Green Way (right bank, cross the bridge, and tackle the small climb (on the D7) to reach the medieval village of Yesterday (left bank).
Nautical and Fishing Stopover
Vireux-Wallerand has a nautical stopover well-equipped for boaters. The confluence of the Meuse and Viroin rivers is also a paradise for... fishermen.
Around Vireux-Wallerand: Our suggestions
By staying in Vireux-Wallerand, you are at the center of everything.
Vireux-Molhain (the “twin”): A 5-minute walk. That's where the Mont Vireux site (Roman Camp) and Saint-Ermel Collegiate ChurchNot to be missed under any circumstances.
Yesterday (at 5-10 min): Just on the other side of the bridge. The medieval village of Hierges is an absolute must-have.
Aubrives (5-10 min away): Just outside Hierges, discover the amazing fortified church of Saint-Maurice.
Givet (20 min away): In the north, visit the Fort of CharlemontEnjoy the RIVÉA aquatic centre and the docks.
Vireux-Wallerand: Practical information
🍽️ Where to eat in Vireux-Wallerand?
This is the Viroquois' dining hub. You'll find a wide selection of traditional restaurants, brasseries, pizzerias and chip shops, particularly around the Place du Château and along the quays.
🛌 Where to stay in Vireux-Wallerand?
Accommodation options are plentiful: hotels, guesthouses, and bed and breakfasts are all available. It's an excellent base for exploring the Ardennes Valley without having to use the car every day.
To find your accommodation, consult our page Accommodation.
🚗 How to get here and park?
By train : La Vireux-Molhain Station (served by the TER Givet – Charleville-Mézières line) is a 5-10 minute walk away.
By car : Access is very simple via the D8051 (the “Route de la Vallée”, left bank) which connects Givet to Revin.
By bike : The village is a central stop on the Trans-Ardennes Green Route (EuroVelo 19).
parking: Large parking areas are available, particularly on the Place du Château and along the banks of the Meuse.
ℹ️ Information point
Le Val d'Ardenne Tourist Office main office is located here Castle SquareOur team is at your complete disposal to guide you, provide maps and give you the keys to your stay (including for the visit to the Collegiate Church!).