Fort de Bourlémont

About the museum

Fort de Bourlémont was built between 1878 and 1881 as part of the eastern defence line designed by General Séré de Rivières after the war of 1870. Its earthen embankments, three to seven metres thick, were meant to absorb shells fired with black powder. It is the only work of this system in the area and has remained in its original state: the masonry and everyday life of a late 19th-century garrison can still be seen.

The commune of Mont-lès-Neufchâteau acquired the fort in 1996. It became a social and professional integration project (chantier d'insertion) run by the Association des Amis du Fort de Bourlémont, which employs people who are far from the job market on restoration and maintenance work: masonry, carpentry, landscaping and interior fitting-out.

Today the association runs the Fort aux énigmes. Visitors receive a “pass énigmes” and make their way through a maze of rooms and corridors, solving puzzles about flora and fauna and logic and dexterity challenges. One room is devoted to traditional games, and an escape game completes the offer. The site, in forest at about 400 m above sea level, borders the GR 714 long-distance footpath.

Highlights

• Puzzle trail through the fort's maze with a “pass énigmes” and a certificate
• Puzzles on flora and fauna, including bats
• Room of traditional games (aérobille, palet anglais)
• Escape game in the fort
• Picnic area with views over Neufchâteau, remains of a Roman road and arboretum

Permanent exhibition

• Parcours Fort aux énigmes – Puzzle trail through the fort: flora and fauna maze, logic challenges, room of traditional games and a final certificate.

Operated by

Association des Amis du Fort de Bourlémont (propriété de la commune de Mont-lès-Neufchâteau)

Admission & discounts

Rates for the Fort aux énigmes trail; special rates apply to occasional events (evening escape game, Halloween).

Accessibility

The museum hasn’t published any information on this.

Kids & families

Great for kids & families

• Family tours & workshops
• Activity booklet, scavenger hunt or kids’ audio guide
• Hands-on stations

The puzzle trail is designed as a family adventure, with reasoning and agility challenges and a certificate handed out at the end.

Getting there & parking

The fort lies in the forest beside the GR 714, at about 400 m altitude, at the end of a drivable road from the RD 71 (Neufchâteau – Pargny-sous-Mureau).

Amenities & dining

• Museum shop

Souvenir shop. Picnic area with tables and benches; several restaurants in Neufchâteau are listed on the fort's website. Three pitches for motorhomes (France Passion welcome).

Events & venue rental

• Spaces for rent
• Private parties
• Weddings / ceremonies

Rooms available for receptions and weddings; quote on request.

Plan your visit