A Unique Heritage in the Ardennes

The Tobacco Route invites you to discover the little-known but fascinating history of tobacco cultivation in the Ardennes. This 45 km route through the region will reveal the secrets of this iconic plant that marked the local economy and landscape.

From ancient plantations to drying sheds, passing through the artisanal factory of Corbion, each step will plunge you into a unique sensory and historical adventure. Complete your discovery of the Ardennes by exploring the Semois by kayak.

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Tobacco Museum

Housed in an old drying shed, this museum traces the complete history of this culture in the Ardennes

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Couvert Factory

Last artisanal factory in the region perpetuating traditional methods

Typical old tobacco shed of the Ardennes

Why Travel the Tobacco Route?

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Unique Industrial Heritage

Discover a little-known part of the industrial history of the Ardennes. Tobacco cultivation shaped the landscape and regional economy for over a century, leaving an exceptional architectural heritage.

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Artisanal Know-How

Meet the last artisans perpetuating traditional methods. The Couvert factory is the last active one within a 200 km radius, a living testimony of a disappearing know-how.

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Exceptional Landscapes

The 45 km route takes you through varied and preserved landscapes. Ancient plantations and tobacco sheds offer unique viewpoints over the Ardennes valleys. Plan your kayak descent to discover these valleys from the river.

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Living History

More than 200 historic buildings remain along the route. Each shed, each drying shed tells a part of the tobacco epic that made the wealth of the region between 1850 and 1950.

Practical Information

📍 Departure & Route

Recommended starting point
Tobacco Museum in Vresse-sur-Semois

Total length
45 km (partial circuits possible)

Recommended duration
1 to 2 days depending on activities

🕒 Hours & Rates

Tobacco Museum
Tuesday to Sunday: 10am-5pm
6€ adult | 4€ child

Couvert Factory
Guided tours at 2pm
8€/person - Reservation required

💡 Good to know

Best period
May to October for demonstrations

Accessibility
Partially accessible to PRM

Services
Parking, picnic areas, toilets

Map of the Tobacco Route

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, booking is mandatory for the visit to the Couvert factory. Slots are limited to 15 people per visit and are often full several days in advance, especially during school holidays.

Absolutely! The Tobacco Route is perfectly suited for cycling. The 45 km route mainly uses low-traffic secondary roads and rural paths. Bike rentals are available in Alle-sur-Semois.

Yes, it is possible but we recommend 2 days to fully enjoy all visits and demonstrations. If you only have one day, focus on the museum and the Couvert factory.

Several options are available in the villages crossed. We also recommend the many picnic areas set up along the route, ideal for enjoying the landscapes.