Attractions and places to see around Machiel offer a range of historical and natural sites within the Picardy region of France. This area is characterized by its valleys and historical architecture, including abbeys, castles, and water mills. Visitors can explore sites that reflect centuries of local history and engineering. The region provides opportunities for discovering cultural heritage and natural landscapes.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Castle
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Machiel.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
A very worthwhile abbey, well worth a visit.
0
0
The castle and park are well worth seeing!
0
0
superb walk, calm, rest, meal on the terrace at the Auberge du Gros Tilleul, a warm, peaceful welcome, a restorative day
0
0
A remarkable castle with a green garden.
0
0
Beautiful garden that you should definitely see if you are in the area. You will discover different zones such as: The rose garden, the herb garden, the island garden, the ordinary garden, the garden of evolution, ...
4
0
Gaston Caudron (actually Alphonse) (Favières, January 18, 1882 - December 10, 1915) and René Caudron (Favières, July 1, 1884 - September 27, 1959) were French aviation pioneers. They founded the world's first flying school and built the world's first seaplane. The Caudron brothers were farmers with a passion for aviation, which was gaining popularity at the time. In the spring of 1908 they built a glider with which they made the first flights over the fields of a farm (Ferme de Romiotte) a few kilometers from Le Crotoy. The device was pulled up by a horse. In this way they completed six flights over a distance between 800 and 1200 m. René controlled the glider. They founded the Aéroplanes Caudron Frères company in 1909 and from 1910 the Société des avions Caudron, originally installed in Le Crotoy and later in Rue. They acquired a special place in aviation history. In 1910 they founded the world's first flying school, recruiting future pilots, and in August 1910 René obtained his pilot's license in Le Touquet. In March 1911, Gaston received his civil aviation license. In 1912, the brothers built the world's first seaplane. In 1913 they expanded the school with a military aviation department. In 1913, Gaston started the first pilot school in China, and he was the first pilot to fly over the Forbidden City, on the occasion of the delivery of twelve reconnaissance aircraft type Caudron G.3 (see photo), ordered by the Chinese. The Caudron brothers developed several reconnaissance aircraft for the French army. Under pressure from the invasion of the German troops in 1914, they moved their factories to Issy-les-Moulineaux and Lyon. Gaston Caudron died on December 10, 1915 on board a Caudron R-4 at Lyon-Bron airport. In 1920, the French pilot Adrienne Bolland was employed as a test pilot. She made world news when she flew over the Andes in a Caudron G.3 in 1921. In 1933, the Caudron factories, which had run into financial difficulties, were bought by the Renault company. From then on the company was called Société anonyme des avions Caudron. The designers now concentrated on building light aircraft. In 1933 there was a collaboration with Marcel Berthet, famous cyclist and professional from 1907-1923, in which an aerodynamic streamline was built around the racing bicycle. Materials were spruce wood, aluminum and cloth. Marcel drove this at 49.992 km/h. However, the record was not recognized by the International Cycling Union (UCI) because of the different bicycle model with which it was set. Hélène Boucher, who set several world records with Caudron aircraft, was also under contract with Renault to promote one of its car models, the Renault Viva Grand Sport. She crashed in a Caudron Rafale on November 30, 1934 in Guyancourt.
1
0
Valloires Abbey and Gardens offer a unique combination of historical and botanical attractions, as you can explore the only complete 18th century Cistercian abbey in France and admire the 5,000 species and varieties of rare roses and shrubs in the gardens. The gardens were designed by the famous landscaper Gilles Clément and follow the natural relief of the valley, with a difference of 25 meters between the highest and lowest part. You can also enjoy creative and modern cuisine based on plants, flowers and fruit at the Gardener's Table, or buy local specialties at the boutique. The abbey and gardens are open all year round and host various events such as Ladybug Day, Painters' Day and the Pumpkin Festival. Don't miss discovering this rare and astonishing site in the heart of Picardy!
2
0
The Moulin de Maintenay is a beautiful 12th century water mill located on the banks of the Authie1. It is located in a magical place, full of charm, nestled in a valley of the Seven Valleys, just on the border between Picardy and Nord – Pas de Calais. The mill was given to the Cistercian monks of Valloires Abbey in 1197 and the monks worked there until the 18th century. After the Second World War, the flour mill ceased its activity and was transformed into a sawmill. This activity stopped in the 1970s. Today, the Moulin de Maintenay is a tourist place where you can discover the history of the mill on a self-guided or guided tour. It also has a tea room where you can enjoy homemade pancakes and pancakes on the banks of the Authie. Additionally, there is a bakery where you can buy sourdough breads, brioches, tarts, etc.
4
0
The Machiel area is rich in history. You can explore the 12th-century Moulin de maintenay, a historic water mill on the Authie river. Another significant site is Valloires Abbey and Gardens, the only complete 18th-century Cistercian abbey in France. Don't miss Regnière-Écluse Castle, a historical site with a vast park, or the Caudron Brothers' Stele, commemorating aviation pioneers.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. Regnière-Écluse Castle offers an 800-hectare park perfect for walks, and the castle itself can be visited. The Moulin de maintenay, a historic water mill, has a tea room and bakery, which can be a charming stop for all ages. The extensive gardens at Valloires Abbey and Gardens also provide a beautiful and educational outing.
The Machiel region offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for mountain biking, road cycling, and running. For mountain biking, explore trails like the 'Regnière-Écluse Castle – Grassy Path in the Woods loop from Crécy-en-Ponthieu'. Road cyclists can enjoy routes such as the 'Regnière-Écluse Castle – Valloires Abbey and Gardens loop from Tortefontaine'. Runners have options like the 'Regnière-Écluse Castle loop from Regnière-Écluse'. You can find more details and routes in the dedicated guides for MTB Trails around Machiel, Road Cycling Routes around Machiel, and Running Trails around Machiel.
For nature and gardens, Valloires Abbey and Gardens is a must-visit. Its gardens feature 5,000 species of rare roses and shrubs, designed to follow the natural relief of the valley. Additionally, Regnière-Écluse Castle boasts a large 800-hectare park, offering beautiful natural surroundings and viewpoints. The Moulin de maintenay is also set in a charming natural location on the banks of the Authie river.
Yes, the region features notable castles. You can visit Regnière-Écluse Castle, known for its extensive 800-hectare park and available guided tours. Another beautiful example is Argoules Castle, a 16th-century castle surrounded by a 5-hectare park, offering a peaceful and charming experience.
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique combination of historical and botanical elements at Valloires Abbey and Gardens, noting its welcoming atmosphere and restaurant. The Moulin de maintenay is loved for its magical, charming setting on the Authie river. The magnificent views and beautiful gardens of Regnière-Écluse Castle are also highly praised, with many enjoying walks in its vast park.
Yes, you can find options for refreshments. The Moulin de maintenay features a tea room where you can enjoy homemade pancakes and a bakery offering sourdough breads and pastries. At Valloires Abbey and Gardens, you can enjoy creative cuisine at the Gardener's Table, which focuses on plants, flowers, and fruit. Near Argoules Castle, the Auberge du Gros Tilleul offers a warm welcome and a chance for a meal on the terrace.
For Valloires Abbey and Gardens, plan at least 2-3 hours to fully explore both the abbey and its extensive gardens. A visit to Regnière-Écluse Castle and its 800-hectare park could easily take 2-4 hours, especially if you opt for a guided tour or a longer walk. The Moulin de maintenay might be a shorter stop, around 1-2 hours, allowing time for a self-guided tour and a visit to the tea room.
While the main attractions are well-known, the charm of the Machiel area lies in its tranquil valleys and historical architecture. The Moulin de maintenay, a 12th-century water mill, offers a glimpse into local history in a magical, less-crowded setting. Exploring the smaller villages and their local churches or simply enjoying the scenic drives through the Picardy countryside can reveal many hidden delights.
The best time to visit Machiel attractions, especially those with gardens like Valloires Abbey and Gardens, is typically from spring to early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is generally pleasant for exploring historical sites and enjoying outdoor activities. The gardens will be in full bloom, and events like Ladybug Day or the Pumpkin Festival at Valloires Abbey add to the experience.
Yes, parking is generally available at the major attractions. For instance, Regnière-Écluse Castle is noted to have parking facilities. It's always a good idea to check the specific attraction's website for the most current parking information, especially during peak season.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: