The Chemin des Dames is a departmental road which, for some thirty kilometres, follows the ridge between the Aisne and Ailette valleys. The name recalls that in the 18th century, Louis XV's daughters Adélaïde and Victoire regularly took this route to visit their friend the Duchess of Narbonne at Château de la Bove.

A place of remembrance

The scene of deadly fighting between 1914 and 1918, especially the Nivelle Offensive of April 1917, the Chemin des Dames is now lined with monuments, military cemeteries and museums — a major site of First World War remembrance.

Highlights along the ridge

From west to east: the Californie plateau, the Basques monument, the Chemin des Dames memorial at Cerny-en-Laonnois, the Caverne du Dragon museum, the Hurtebise farm and the 36th Division monument. Plan a full day.

Plan your visit

Several marked trails run along the ridge for hiking or cycling. The Tourist Office runs themed guided tours from Cerny-en-Laonnois, April to October. A free audio-guide app is available.

"Here, the silence is itself a monument." — visitor, guest book 2024