Visit Parfondeval

Could it be the fortress silhouette created by the dungeon and towers that gives the Église Saint-Médard its charm and authenticity? Or perhaps the magnificent white stone Renaissance door? Built during the 16th century, Saint-Médard is one of the many fortified churches that covered the borderland of Thiérache. It is the only church out of the sixty or so in the region that teaches you about the history of fortified churches with a unique display for children and adults alike!

The Maison des Outils d’Antan (House of Tools of Yesteryear) gives you an insight into rural living in 1900 with a collection of no less than 2,000 tools, plunging you deep into the local history. Great for a family day out!

Parfondeval’s beauty is best explored on foot, accompanied either by a guide who will reveal all its secrets or by an audioguide, which comes with an application especially designed for children. Follow the owl, the village’s emblem, as it takes you around 12 points of interest and 3 displays, with the entire walk being approximately an hour long. A great way to get your fix of greenery!

If you had to pick a cheese that best represented northern France, it would be maroilles hands down. Often found in a traditional flamiche puff pastry tart, it is just as famous as moules-frites and is an essential part of any gastronomic tour of the North. It is a soft cheese made from cow’s milk with a washed orange rind. Much like wine, it is kept in a cellar and has a Protected Origin label with various ‘vintages’ depending on its age: the Sorbais, Quart and Mignon are the most well-known. Don’t go home without stocking up on maroilles and a few bottles of apple juice, the local specialties!