Vimy Ridge was a much disputed piece of high-ground in France, that was needed to be occupied, in order to control Arras. After many French and British attempts, allied command decided that Canada would sort out this trival battle, andafter 2 unsucessful years, the Canadians managed to capture the crest in about a week.
The first thing that must be said about this place it its fantastic condition. All the trenches have been preserved and lined with sandbags and duck-boards made of concrete. There is no litter anywhere to be seen, and the trees, grass and flowers are well kept, creating a fantastic landscape. It must also be mentioned how helpful and friendly the Canadian voulenteer guides are. You first enter at a Canadian trench, which had restored shooting posts. Then as you cross the line over to the German line (Which includes a German pillbox), you pass two massive mine craters. Mining was a key tactic at Vimy Ridge, and once visting the trenches, you go down into the mines... These were dug by the British before and during the arrival of the Canadians, but once finishes, where largely Canadian-occupied. There is still an untouched tunnel and mining equiptment on display.
I have to say that this place is definately well worth visiting for any WWI or war in general enthusiast.
