Juniville: Verlaine, Saint-Amand and the history of mills

Juniville brings together literary, religious and technical history, with connections to agriculture. The Church of Saint-Amand already existed in 1145; the Musée Verlaine adds a distinct literary focus, and the Moulin de la CAJ illustrates the former use of a turbine powered by the Retourne. There is also an interpretive trail, a fishing pond and local produce. When planning your trip, check the visiting arrangements for each attraction, as they differ considerably.

Church of Saint-Amand and Verlaine

The Church of Saint-Amand already existed in 1145 and remains a place of worship where religious services are held. If you plan to attend a service, check the date and time in advance, as service times may change.

The Musée Verlaine offers a guided tour featuring a unique iconographic collection and the poet’s complete works. The image collection and complete works give the visit a clear literary focus. As the current programme may change, check the visiting arrangements on offer before your trip.

Mills and trails along the Retourne

The Moulin de la CAJ is a former grain mill. It was powered by a water turbine fed by the Retourne. After suffering damage during the First World War, the mill was rebuilt in 1929. Its technical use and post-war reconstruction give the Moulin two distinct historical layers. Visiting is subject to a clear time restriction: the Moulin de la CAJ is open only during the European Heritage Days in September. Check the annual opening arrangements before your trip.

The “Jour de foire en compagnie de Verlaine” interpretive trail runs along the La Retourne river and near the village church. Its literary title evokes Verlaine, while the river and village church provide local points of reference. If Verlaine is your main interest, the two experiences differ: the museum focuses on its guided tour and collection, while the trail follows the river and passes near the village church.

Local produce and planning your visit

Ferme des P'tits Gourmands produces organic pasta, organic flour and organic oils, and also has a shop selling local produce. The farm thus combines its own products with a selection of local goods. Opening arrangements may change; check them before your visit.

Les pommes de terre de la Retourne sells potatoes directly to private customers, with a minimum purchase of 1 kg; product availability may vary. Unlike the Ferme’s wider range, this offer focuses specifically on potatoes and has a minimum purchase quantity. If you plan to shop, check availability in advance.

At the entrance to Juniville, there is a fishing pond at the Moulin de la Chut. The restaurant at the Moulin de la Chut offers meals indoors or on the terrace; availability may change. If you plan specifically to visit the pond, confirm that it is currently open before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Étrépigny, Donchery, Montigny-Sur-Meuse, Hannappes, Chalandry-Elaire, Bayonville, Fromelennes, Cornay

For the broader travel overview: Ardennes.