MUST VISIT

Thiérache is not only an important green space, but also renowned for its numerous fortified churches and other notable architectures.

Of course, to discover this beautiful region, we know the perfect place to stay! At our star couple of LIVING THE DREAM B&B’s, Le Petit Château in Saint-Michel. It would be a great opportunity to found out more about their experience of buying in France, and why not fine-tune your own project.

Definitely worth a visit is The Abbey of St Michel, founded in 945, the Benedictine abbey is perfectly preserved. It houses the grand organ dating from 1714 and mural paintings of the life of Saint Benedict, which were recently discovered in the cloister.
In the old agricultural buildings of the abbey is the Museum of Rural and Forestry Life where you can explore the ancient agricultural trades that made Thiérache famous – things like woodworking, livestock farming and milk processing, and the cultivation of wicker for its use in basketry are just three activities whose history is traced in this museum.

Broader your exploration of the region, head westward from Saint Michel and take a scenic 45-minute drive to the Familistère de Guise, nestled in the village of Guise along the D1029/E44 road to Amiens. This remarkable edifice is more than meets the eye. Conceived by Jean-Baptiste-André Godin, an industrialist in the foundry business, this project took shape in the latter half of the 19th century. The Familistère is a fusion of industry, education, culture, and living space. Beyond its exhibition areas, the museum encompasses the entire site, including gardens, squares, a music kiosk, schools, and residences, creating a museum-like ambiance.

(Ed: That sounds fascinating but what about eating? You know me—I'm always up for sampling the local cuisine!)

While exploring Guise, make sure you soak up the atmosphere of a cosy bistro called L'Estaminet l'Art d'Oise. Here, you can unwind with drinks or enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the evenings, it’s a chance to sample a platter of cold cuts or cheese to accompany your choice of wine.

For a more upscale dining affair, venture back towards Saint-Michel and experience a choice of traditional dishes with a modern twist at La Paix restaurant in Le Nouvion-en-Thiérache, recognised by the College Culinaire de France as a restaurant of exceptional quality. It might come with a slightly higher price tag, but it's definitely a culinary delight. (Ed: yes, and the wine selection is good too!)

And for those inclined towards DIY culinary adventures, Thiérache boasts numerous local markets and farm shops worth exploring. Delicacies abound, from the pungent soft cheese Maroilles to artisanal beers like La Guisarde from Guise or La Mermoz from Aubenton, along with apple juice, cider, honey, and ice cream.

We are not suggesting you do it all in one day, but choice certainly abounds in this pretty part of Northeast France.