Visit the Castle of Arques-la-Bataille
A few kilometers from Dieppe is the castle of Arques-la-Bataille. Of this old medieval fortress, only the remains remain, but they are worth the detour! Do you like history and old stones? Guided tour…
Perched on its rocky hill, the castle of Arques-la-Bataille overlooks the valley. Only 15 minutes from the hotel La Tour aux Crabes, in Dieppe.
The fortress whose square keep can be seen from afar was built in the 21st century by William of Arques – uncle of the famous Duke of Normandy and King of England William the Conqueror.
It played a strategic and decisive role during the Hundred Years' War, which pitted the English against the French.
The castle of Arques-la-Bataille is best known for the battle that pitted Henry IV, who had come to take refuge there, against the Catholic League troops in the 16th century.
A feat of arms that helped establish its power in France, making the castle a key site in the history of France.
Once its glory days were over, it became a stone quarry for a time, under the reign of Louis XVI. And it was even nearly razed.
A 360° panorama
The ruins are now closed to the public, but you can observe this witness to Norman history by taking the counterscarp path, carved into the rock.
It is a breathtaking panorama that you will discover as you advance. With the meadows of Calmont and Gruchet below to the west.
Further south, you will make out the remains of a drawbridge before seeing the ballast pits, the valley bathed by the confluences of the Arques and the wooded slopes of the forest.
You can also cross the charming villages of Arques-la-Bataille and Martigny.
On your return from your walk, take a gourmet break at the restaurant of our hotel La Tour aux Crabes.
Perched on its rocky hill, the castle of Arques-la-Bataille overlooks the valley. Only 15 minutes from the hotel La Tour aux Crabes, in Dieppe.
A castle witness to history
From William of Arques to Louis XVI
The fortress whose square keep can be seen from afar was built in the 21st century by William of Arques – uncle of the famous Duke of Normandy and King of England William the Conqueror.
It played a strategic and decisive role during the Hundred Years' War, which pitted the English against the French.
The castle of Arques-la-Bataille is best known for the battle that pitted Henry IV, who had come to take refuge there, against the Catholic League troops in the 16th century.
A feat of arms that helped establish its power in France, making the castle a key site in the history of France.
Once its glory days were over, it became a stone quarry for a time, under the reign of Louis XVI. And it was even nearly razed.
Walk around the castle
A 360° panorama
The ruins are now closed to the public, but you can observe this witness to Norman history by taking the counterscarp path, carved into the rock.
It is a breathtaking panorama that you will discover as you advance. With the meadows of Calmont and Gruchet below to the west.
Further south, you will make out the remains of a drawbridge before seeing the ballast pits, the valley bathed by the confluences of the Arques and the wooded slopes of the forest.
You can also cross the charming villages of Arques-la-Bataille and Martigny.
On your return from your walk, take a gourmet break at the restaurant of our hotel La Tour aux Crabes.
