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Private Battlefields Tour in Argonne from Paris in Van (2/7 travelers)

4.2 (5)
Massiges, FR
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Private Battlefields Tour in Argonne from Paris in Van (2/7 travelers)

4.2 (5)
Massiges, FR
Share
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Experience the history and beauty of the Argonne forest with a private Battlefields Tour. Travel in style and comfort with your own group of up to 6 travelers in a spacious and air-conditioned minivan. Your knowledgeable guide, Régis, will take you on a journey through the significant events of World War I, exploring the trenches and shell holes of the Main de Massiges and the remains of the trenches at Vauquois hill. Climb the 200 steps of the American monument of Montfaucon and be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the valley where the American offensive took place. Visit the village of Varennes en Argonne, where King Louis XVI was arrested, and pay homage to the fallen soldiers at the largest American military cemetery in France at Romagne. This immersive and educational tour includes admission tickets to the "Romagne 14-18" Museum and private transportation. Don't miss this opportunity to explore the history and beauty of the Argonne forest.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • Admission Included
  • 13 hours - 14 hours
  • Suitable for 2-7 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Private transportation
  • Admission tickets to the "Romagne 14-18" Museum
  • Driver / guide
  • Travel aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned Minivan (Maximum 6 travelers)
  • Support for customers at their place of residence in Paris and the Paris region
  • Lunch

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More about this experience

Introduction

Discover the fascinating history of the First World War with the Private Battlefields Tour in Argonne from Paris in a comfortable and air-conditioned minivan. Led by your experienced guide and driver, Régis, you will delve into the significant events that took place in the Argonne forest between 1914 and 1918. This unique tour allows you to explore the trenches, shell holes, and remains of the battlefield while immersing yourself in the stories and sacrifices of the soldiers who fought there.

What to expect?

During this tour, you can expect to gain a deep understanding of the battles that shaped World War I. You will visit historically significant sites, such as the Main de Massiges, where you will walk amidst trenches and witness the apocalyptic aftermath of warfare. Climb the 200 steps of the marble column of the American monument of Montfaucon to admire the breathtaking view of the valley that witnessed the American offensive in 1918. Pay homage to the fallen soldiers by visiting the largest American military cemetery in France at Romagne. Explore the village of Varennes en Argonne, where the King of France Louis XVI was arrested during the French Revolution. The highlight of the tour is the Butte de Vauquois, a hill that was transformed into a fortress during the war, offering a glimpse into the intense fighting that took place there.

Who is this for?

The Private Battlefields Tour in Argonne is perfect for history enthusiasts, war buffs, and anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the First World War and its impact on the region. Whether you are a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a family, this tour caters to all who have a fascination for the past and a thirst for knowledge. The tour is suitable for individuals of all ages, so bring your grandparents, children, or any family member who wants to learn about this important period in history.

Why book this?

By booking this exceptional tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the lesser-known battlefields of Argonne, away from the crowded tourist spots. Led by Régis, a knowledgeable and experienced guide, you will gain unique insights into the events that unfolded during the First World War. You will walk in the footsteps of soldiers, witnessing the scars left by war and paying tribute to the fallen heroes. This tour allows you to connect with the past and comprehend the magnitude of the sacrifices made by those who fought for their countries. Come away with a profound appreciation for the history and the profound impact of the First World War on the Argonne forest.

Good to know

It is important to note that the duration of the tour is approximately 780 to 840 minutes, allowing you ample time to explore each site in detail. Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes as you venture through the trenches and war-torn landscapes. Jean Paul's informal museum is a must-visit, showcasing thousands of objects from the Great War and sharing personal stories of soldiers. Keep in mind that this tour is conducted in a minivan, accommodating a maximum of 7 travelers, ensuring an intimate and immersive experience.

Reviews

Previous travelers have expressed their deep appreciation for the Private Battlefields Tour in Argonne. They praise the knowledgeable guide, Régis, for his captivating storytelling and ability to bring history to life. Visitors are particularly moved by the emotional experience of visiting the American military cemetery in Romagne and paying tribute to the fallen soldiers. The tour is highly regarded for its unique and off-the-beaten-path sites, allowing travelers to gain a deeper understanding of the First World War and its impact. Overall, the Private Battlefields Tour in Argonne offers a thought-provoking and unforgettable journey through history.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Is an adult required for the booking?

  • At least one adult or senior required per booking

Your Itinerary

La Main de Massiges

The Germans retreated in early September 1914, entrenched on this natural height, each finger of which forms a bastion of this natural fortress. It was on this obstacle that the soldiers of the 4th French Army came up against on September 13, 1914, who participated in the counter-offensive succeeding the first battle of the Marne. A hotbed of fighting, this strategic position was the scene of fierce fighting that took place here in the Massiges sector between 1914 and 1918. The number of French soldiers killed, wounded or missing is estimated at 25,000, and certainly as many German soldiers.

Montfaucon Monument

The monument faces the front line of the 1st American army on the morning of September 26, 1918, when the attack began, the victory of which commemorates it, the Meuse-Argonne offensive. This lasted until November 11, 1918 and forced the enemy to retreat from its front. It consists of a Doric column in solid granite, surmounted by a statue symbolizing Liberty, which dominates the ruins of the old village by more than 60 meters. On the walls of the foyer is an engraved map of operations, with a story and a special tribute to the American troops who served here. The observation platform of the memorial can be reached at certain times by a staircase of 234 steps, from where visitors enjoy a view of almost all of the land conquered during this offensive.

Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery

If there is one essential site in the Land of Argonne, it is this cemetery which allows us to understand what the Americans mean by "Duty to remember". Located in Romagne-sous-Montfaucon, the 52-hectare Meuse-Argonne American Cemetery is the largest American necropolis in Europe. Inaugurated in 1937, this necropolis has 14,246 graves of American soldiers who perished during the Meuse Argonne Offensive from September 26 to November 11, 1918. The Romanesque memorial and its chapel overlook the cemetery. A map explaining the Meuse-Argonne offensive is engraved on a wall of the loggia. On another wall are engraved the names of 954 American soldiers who disappeared during the Meuse-Argonne offensive. Inside the chapel, the badges of the American divisions and higher army units are represented on the stained glass windows. On the front wall of the chapel are engraved the names of the villages and places where the American army fought.

Romagne 14-18

Explore thousands of objects from the Great War at Jean Paul's informal museum, which will show you the soldier's daily life. Behind each object on display hides a personal and moving story. Helmets, weapons, combs, coins, cutlery, pocket watches go back even today ... Jean-Paul de Vries has been looking for and finding these objects since 1976. In his museum, he exhibits finds that bear witness to this life in the trenches. Each object was found within a radius of 4 kilometers around Romagne sous Montfaucon. By showing the lives of soldiers, Jean-Paul de Vries hopes to make people understand the atrocity of war.

Admission Included

Varennes-en-Argonne

The village is known to have been the site of the arrest of Louis XVI and the royal family who tried to join troops remained loyal to the monarchy based in Montmédy, Varennes was occupied by German troops at the start of the First World War. The village was on or near the front line during most of the conflict. Varennes-en-Argonne was the first city to be liberated by American troops during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive launched on September 26, 1918. The Pennsylvania Monument in Varennes-en-Argonne: Located on the heights of Varennes-en-Argonne, this impressive monument was erected and funded in 1928 by the State of Pennsylvania (United States), in memory of the soldiers who died during the battles of 1918 to liberate this area. Its terrace offers a magnificent panorama overlooking the Aire valley.

Butte de Vauquois

Built at the top of a hill that overlooked the surrounding plain at an altitude of 290 m, which made it an observatory and a landmark for the regulation of artillery fire during the First World War. In the autumn of 1914, the Germans transformed the village into a veritable fortress. The French and the Germans buried themselves in trenches at the top of the hill which was transformed by more than 500 explosions, the village of Vauquois was totally destroyed. From February to March 1915, the ruins of the village were hotly contested. Kilometers of galleries (about 23) were dug, spanning several levels, up to 100 meters deep, in order to penetrate under the enemy camp, causing it as much loss as possible by the explosion of mines. In May 1916 a huge funnel was created by the explosion of a 60-ton mine that killed 108 French soldiers. In September 1918 the Americans took possession of the position definitively.

Reviews

(5)

4.2 (5)

Debra-Brad-9142023

We thank Regis our tour guide for the most memorable tour of the Meuse Argonne Region on September 14th. His personal tour provided such detailed information about the battle, the various monuments, and other interesting events that occurred in that area. My husband was elated to visit the town of Dombasle where his grandfather arrived when he served during the war. Walking the cemetery and visiting the church was sobering. Seeing the demolished church and German bunkers on top of the hill really put things into perspective. And then the finale was walking in the forest and seeing the trenches and craters where the shelling occurred. We spent 3 weeks in Europe touring many cities but we both concluded that your tour was one of the highlights of our trip. Thank you again!

sandvigenmt

This tour was a hybrid of Verdun, the Argonne and all things AEF. Regis was fabulous and extremely flexible, we corresponded for a couple of months to ensure that I would be walking in the footsteps of my grandfather. The tour took us all over the American and Franco/American Battlefields. I learned early on that if it was recommended by Regis - it was worth seeing and exploring. An accomplished English/French speaker, he was able to open doors that, for most, would remain locked. Regis also ensured that the history of France's Ancien Regime, Napoleonic era, and the Franco-Prussian War were liberally sprinkled throughout the tour to ensure that timelines leading up to the Grand Gurre remained intact. One of the highlights was to be taken to the Haute Chevauchée (High Road) where his uncle had fought and was wounded. For the AEF student, this was a rare treat as it, and its monument, are buried deep in the Argonne Forest. After walking the battlefields, the WWI American Monuments and Cemeteries were not to be missed, they are some or the most beautiful in the ABMC inventory. On a lighter note, the tour became uproarious when we found out that Regis was a bread, pastry, and dessert fan. Every gas stop contained at least two of the three. Last, he is a generous host, tremendously well informed, and fun. When you leave his tour, you are leaving behind a friend.

bigapplevisitor

Pictures are stunning, not! Because we didn’t get the opportunity to take any! We booked this tour in Nov 2022, that’s almost an entire year ago. My husband has a relative buried in the WWI American Cemetery and much of our visit to France centered around this one tour. None of his family can afford to visit the grave site, so we are making this pilgrimage to his grave after being there for 105 years. Our guide called at 10:38pm before a 6am pick up to tell us he couldn’t come, because his car broke down. He stated he could not make alternative arrangements, had to take the car to the shop the day of our tour and we could go in a week or so. When you are leaving in two days that is not helpful. We then called the Viator help line in the Philippines, at first hesitant to refund our $848, there was no offer to make right on a less than 8 hour cancellation by the driver/guide. The very least they could have offered would be a reduction on the price of the two tours we had booked with them in Belgium, right? Then after almost an hour on the phone, and repeatedly asking to talk to a supervisor, the call center person hung up on us! Think real hard about using Viator, and if the tour in France goes through Adrian Roads - cancel now!

Lee_W

This is a must do when visiting Paris if you have an interest in WW1! Our guide helped us find my husband’s great grandfather’s grave at the Meuse Argonne Cemetery. He also took us to so many great places that weren’t even listed. We had a very full day and learned so much from our guide, Regis! He was very knowledgeable and very pleasant to spend the day with. Make sure to book with Adrian-roads.com. He also does Normandy tours. Next time we are in France we will take his tour. We did the Viking tour and his is just more personalized!

Kathy_D

I did not know that a Pigeon Signal Corp existed! Regis, the Docent, is very very knowledgeable and is passionate about telling our military history. Let is not forget about World War 1. We cannot understand World War 2 without it! .
Collected by Evendo, Tripadvisor & Viator
2024-04-30 11:15