The cathedral is a masterpiece of early Gothic architecture. Climb the 260 steps of its north tower to admire the view from the top and appreciate just how full of history the mediaeval, hilltop city of Laon really is. The 7 km of ramparts surrounding the upper town of this former capital of France have remained intact and contain within them a host of architectural gems, with no less than 84 listed buildings and many other wonders to explore.
You can reach the old town, the largest urban conservation area in the whole of France, by various means. If you are feeling fit, climb the steps with their panoramic views; if not, go up by car or in the POMA, a mini elevated railway which takes passengers into the very heart of the old town, with its fortified gates, ramparts, cathedral, Bishop’s palace. “It is all beautiful”, said Victor Hugo of the mediaeval upper town of Laon.

Caverne du Dragon along the Chemin des Dames, Laon, St Quentin, the most Flemish of the Picardy cities, The Godin “Familistere”, Parfondeval in Thiérache, Coucy le chateau, The Cistercian abbey of Vauclair and medicinal herb garden, The abbey of Saint-Jean des Vignes at Soissons, Longpont, Septmonts next of Soissons, The gardens at Viels-Maisons just an hour of Paris, The chateau of Conde-en-Brie