Around Toulis-et-Attencourt, wetlands and cultural history offer different interests for visitors. The Church of Saint-Martin is in the village, while the Musée des Temps Barbares in Marle is dedicated to the Merovingian period. For accommodation, consider the Gîte Le Village Nature Authentique in Toulis-et-Attencourt. When planning your trip, you can decide whether nature, church history or archaeological subjects are your priority.

Wetlands and birdlife

In 1997, the Marais de Vesles-et-Caumont was designated a national nature reserve covering 108 hectares. It is home to more than 130 bird species. Breeding birds include the Savi’s warbler, bluethroat, western marsh harrier and hen harrier; the common snipe frequently stops there during migration. When comparing the species mentioned, the seasonal distinction is a useful point of reference: the four species are listed as breeding birds, while the common snipe is described as a frequent stopover during migration.

The Grand marais de Liesse is also located near Toulis-et-Attencourt. It is part of the Marais de la Souche and includes peat bog and woodland areas that are home to numerous protected plant and animal species. A path at the Grand marais de Liesse offers a peaceful way to explore the wetlands. Access to the Grand marais de Liesse is via the Sentier du grand marais, behind the care home in Liesse-Notre-Dame. Check access information before your visit; routes and conditions may change.

Public guided tours are regularly offered at the Marais de Vesles-et-Caumont; group visits can be arranged on request. If a guided tour is important to you, check dates and arrangements before travelling. This gives you different options for planning your nature visit: a guided tour in the nature reserve or a peaceful walk along a path at the Grand marais de Liesse. You can consider whether a guided programme or exploring the path better suits your interests.

Church and Merovingian history

The Church of Saint-Martin in Toulis-et-Attencourt was built in the 11th century. Its recorded history is connected with Hildegaud, Pope Benedict VIII and Rozoy Abbey: Benedict VIII received the church from Hildegaud and gave it to the abbey. The date of construction places the church in its historical context; the account adds the people and abbey associated with it.

Nearby, in Marle, the Musée des Temps Barbares is a museum dedicated to the archaeological site and the Merovingian period. The visitor route traces the history of excavations at a cemetery and settlements, and introduces the period known as the Migration Period or the “barbarian” era. The museum’s archaeological park presents life-size reconstructions of Merovingian settlements to the public. The route and the park focus on different aspects: the route covers the history of the excavations and the period, while the settlement reconstructions take centre stage in the park.

Accommodation in Toulis-et-Attencourt

Le Village Nature Authentique is a gîte in Toulis-et-Attencourt, housed in a fully renovated country home with white stone walls, red brick and wooden beams. Amenities include two scooters, three bicycles—two for adults and one for a child—and a basketball hoop.

Discover more destinations: Saint-Pierre-De-Franqueville, L'épine-Aux-Bois, Viel-Arcy, Ugny-Le-Gay, Boue, Jaulgonne, Gauchy, Rozoy-Sur-Serre

For the wider travel guide: Aisne.