Welcome to Au Passage, a beautifully restored 17th-century home in the heart of Aubenton. Blending historic charm with modern comfort, our guest house offers five peaceful rooms on the first floor, each with lovely views. Aubenton sits in the heart of the Thiérache region, known for its unique fortified churches, rural heritage, and quiet, timeless atmosphere. The village is also the birthplace of aviation pioneer Jean Mermoz, adding a remarkable chapter to its local history. Step outside into our spacious patio garden, a calm and welcoming space where we often share meals on warm days. Here, life moves a little slower, inviting you to relax, unwind, and enjoy the rhythm of the countryside. Au Passage is a family-run home, and we take great pleasure in welcoming guests from around the world. As an international family, several languages are spoken here, and this mix of cultures naturally shapes the warm and open atmosphere we share with our visitors. For us, hospitality is about more than accommodation—it is about connection, conversation, and feeling at home while you travel. Whether you are here for a quiet escape, a special occasion, or to explore the Thiérache region, we are happy to welcome you and help make your stay memorable. Our host, Vanessa, prepares fresh and flavorful meals inspired by both local ingredients and our family’s international influences, bringing a personal touch to the table each day. And for those who feel like exploring, kayaks are available right here to discover the river that runs alongside the property. Or simply slow down, enjoy the garden, and take in the peaceful charm of Au Passage.

Our Story

Six years ago, we left the Netherlands in search of a slower pace of life and a place where we could be closer to nature, history, and community. Together with our daughter, we settled in Aubenton and fell in love with the character of this beautiful corner of the Thiérache. Surrounded by centuries of history, from the region's remarkable fortified churches to the legacy of Jean Mermoz, we quickly felt at home here. The village offered exactly what we had been looking for: space to breathe, a strong sense of local heritage, and the opportunity to create a welcoming home for visitors from near and far. As an international family, we enjoy meeting people from different backgrounds and sharing our experiences of life in rural France. Whether you are looking for recommendations, curious about the local history, or simply wish to enjoy a relaxed conversation over dinner, we are always happy to help. For us, Au Passage is more than a guest house—it is our home, and we look forward to sharing a small part of it with you.

Contact and reservations

A House Full of Stories – Since 1664

Au Passage is housed in one of the oldest buildings in the historic centre of Aubenton. The date 1664 can still be seen today in the iron anchor ties on the façade, a reminder of the centuries of history contained within these walls.

The house was likely built as a maison de maître, the residence of a prosperous local family. Its elegant symmetry, generous proportions, and central entrance reflect the architectural style that was fashionable in France during the late 17th century.

Beyond the gateway lies a private interior courtyard, a feature inspired by the grand townhouses (hôtels particuliers) of the period. Over the centuries, generations of residents have passed through these doors, each leaving their own chapter in the story of the house.

Today, while modern comforts have been carefully added, many of the building's original features and character remain. We are proud to be the current custodians of this remarkable home and delighted to share a small part of its history with our guests.

A Much Older Story Beneath the House

Beneath Au Passage lies a history far older than the house itself.

The vaulted cellars beneath the building and courtyard are believed to date from the late 12th or 13th century. Like many medieval cellars in Aubenton, they likely served a dual purpose: storing wine and provisions in times of peace, while offering shelter during periods of conflict and uncertainty.

These ancient underground spaces form part of a network that extends beneath the courtyard and neighbouring properties, providing a glimpse into the town's medieval past.

What makes the site particularly remarkable is the belief that the underground complex extends across three levels. Shortly after moving into the house, we uncovered the entrance to a second subterranean level, revealing another hidden chapter in the building's long history.

Historical records suggest that a third and even deeper level may still exist below. Its entrance has yet to be rediscovered, leaving one final mystery beneath the house. Somewhere in the darkness below, another piece of Aubenton's past may still be waiting to be found.

A Rare 18th-Century Interior

One of the most remarkable features of the house survives on the first floor: a room with an 18th-century oak wood paneling ensemble in the elegant rococo style. The carved panels frame a traditional sleeping alcove and include integrated cupboard doors.

The room also preserves a beautiful Versailles-style oak parquet floor, a design associated with prestigious French interiors.

As we continue to restore and improve the house, our goal is always the same: to carefully modernize the space while preserving as many of its original historic elements as possible. Each renovation is approached with respect for the craftsmanship and character that have shaped the house over centuries, allowing the building’s history to remain part of the experience for every guest. Our aim is to bring modern comfort into the house while allowing its centuries-old character to continue telling its story

Accommodation & Group Stays

Au Passage offers five guest rooms, each with its own character..

One room has been fully renovated and features a private en-suite bathroom, combining contemporary comfort with carefully preserved historic details. The remaining four rooms retain much of the house's original character and share a spacious, recently renovated bathroom. Throughout the house, our approach is simple: to preserve the charm of the past while providing the comfort expected by modern travellers.

All stays include breakfast, served in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Whether you are travelling alone, as a couple, or with a larger group, we can adapt your stay to your needs. Au Passage is particularly well suited to family gatherings, groups of friends, cyclists, walkers, and kayaking enthusiasts looking to explore the region together.

Beyond accommodation, we can help organise complete weekend experiences, including meals, outdoor activities, local discoveries, and group arrangements tailored to your interests.

Cyclists are especially welcome, with secure bicycle storage available in our enclosed courtyard. Guests also have access to a range of facilities designed to make their stay comfortable, convenient, and enjoyable.

Rooms, Rates & Services

All room rates include breakfast.

LaDis: Private En-Suite Room

€99 per night for two guests
€80 per night for a single guest
Additional guest (extra bed): €35 per night

Historic Rooms (With Shared Bathroom)

€85 per night for two guests
€65 per night for a single guest

For guests wishing to enjoy more than just a bed and breakfast stay, we also offer a selection of freshly prepared meals and picnic options:

Lunch: €19 per person (including drinks)
Picnic Lunch: €25 per person (including drinks)
Appetizer Board: €15 per person (excluding drinks)
Dinner: €35 per person (including drinks)

Complimentary coffee and tea are available throughout your stay. A selection of soft drinks and alcoholic beverages is also available for purchase on site.