Dieuze walks

The Saulnois region is often described as the “Land of Salt and Ponds”. This description is well-deserved, and this route features nearly six ponds. Apart from the Étang des Essarts, which has been developed, the others are managed by the Lorraine Nature Conservancy and are completely unspoilt. Here you’ll discover a rich variety of wildlife, vegetation and colours that bear witness to a protected environment. The picnic area by the side of the main road is halfway along the route and can prove very useful.

This walk, in the heart of the Saulnois region, will allow us to discover the King’s Oak. Louis XIV is said to have camped near this oak, which is estimated to be four centuries old. It is situated in the woods opposite Château-Voué, a village steeped in history. It is no longer so easy to find today, and I invite you to join me in discovering and admiring it. You will also have the opportunity to visit Château-Voué (the castle ruins and fortified house), as well as to walk along the beautiful Étang de Wuisse.

A walk that allows you to enjoy Marsal, its history and its panoramic views. Please note the comments left in the ‘Reviews and Discussion’ section on Saturday 9 November 2019. ==> The orientation table is located on private land, but access is permitted to enjoy the view. However, please ensure you close the access gates properly to prevent the grazing sheep from escaping.

This walk, which presents no particular difficulty, will allow you to enjoy some magnificent panoramic views. The orientation table at the top of Mont St-Jean, the St-Livier Chapel and the former Salival Abbey – now a farm – are points of interest that will enhance your walk. You’ll finish with a long straight stretch along one of the banks of the Salival Stream, which is so idyllic. If, like me, you do the walk in winter, you may be lucky enough to spot the famous sheep affectionately known by the locals as ‘Dédé de St-Livier’. He’s very well known because he stubbornly refuses to return to the sheepfold during the winter. I was lucky enough to photograph him at the end of January (see photo).

A circular walk through the Saulnois plain to visit the villages of Moncourt, Ley and Bezange-la-Petite, with 360° views from all the high points along the walk. This is an area where you can find remnants of the two world wars: 1914–18 and 1940–44.

A circular walk through the rolling plains of the Saulnois between the villages of Xanrey, Lezey and Bezange-la-Petite, with beautiful views. A walk along quiet country lanes and field paths.

This route mainly follows paths through fields and, as you walk, reveals magnificent panoramic views of the Saulnois region. Its highlight is the discovery of Mont des Saints, a site undergoing transformation where a series of monumental statues is gradually being erected. Launched in 2023, this ambitious project is led by sculptor Michel Dardaine, whose expertise is bringing the first Lorraine figures to life. The project is a long-term undertaking that will span several decades, offering visitors the pleasure of seeing the site evolve over the years. When you reach the summit, where the route passes, take the time to enjoy an exceptional 360° view, opening onto vast, luminous and particularly photogenic landscapes.

A circular route, along paths and small country roads, between the villages of Coincourt, Xures and Moncourt. Along the way, a bit of history in the Bois de Champcourt, with a visit to a site featuring five German blockhouses from the 1814–1918 period.

This circuit will introduce you to an industrial and urban area of Lorraine that has been recognised as a historic monument and protected heritage site since 2014. You will also follow the Marne-Rhine Canal and six of its former locks, now replaced by a single lock known as "la grande écluse" (the big lock). A bucolic walk that combines wooded and aquatic environments.

This route has two distinct sections. After following part of the path that circles the Étang de la Mutche, you will then reach the Claire Forêt. There you will discover a second, very interesting pond. This route alternates between open stretches and woodland. The paths are very well maintained and pleasant to walk on. The German military cemetery is a truly remarkable point of interest. Steeped in history, the site is impressive for its setting and grandeur.

The Réchicourt-le-Château Lake occupies a rather unusual position. The Marne-Rhine Canal has crossed it since 1965. In fact, it was decided at that time to build the “Grand Écluse”, which made it possible to bypass nearly six locks on the old canal. As a result, a section of the route is a path flanked on either side by part of the lake. Another major attraction is the Grand Écluse itself, which features numerous facilities for tourists.

The main highlight of this route is Montdidier. Perched on a promontory, the village offers remarkable views across the entire area. The orientation table and various facilities allow you to make the most of the site. Half of the route runs along the edge of the forest, which is very pleasant on hot days. The route is signposted by the French Hiking Federation (horizontal yellow line).

This short walk has two highlights: the Étang de Parroy and the Marne-Rhine Canal. The site is superb and offers some lovely views as you climb the hills after leaving the lake. During the tourist season, you can see sailing boats from the water sports centre and numerous boats belonging to river tourism enthusiasts. We are in the Sânon region, right in the heart of the countryside, and the peace and quiet of the area is much appreciated.

Circular route between the Étang de Parroy and Réchicourt-la-Petite, returning via Bures. Views of the Étang de Parroy from near and far. In Réchicourt-la-Petite, a line of seven blockhouses from the 1914–1918 period and a Météo-France weather station. On the way back, pass by the memorial to the first three Americans killed in 1917. Throughout the route, 360° views across the plain and the Vosges mountains.

An easy walk around the Étang de Parroy and the surrounding villages.