Luxeuil-les-Bains walks

Luxeuil-les-Bains is one of the many spa towns in the Haute-Saône. This route allows you to discover all its heritage, such as the abbey, the Basilica of Saint-Pierre, the Tour des Échevins and the thermal baths of Luxeuil. Many of the buildings are constructed from local stone sourced from the Vosges. This charming route allows you to wander around this spa town for several hours. You might even return with some Luxeuil ham. This walk is classified as ‘moderate’ as it is over 10 kilometres long and may not be suitable for younger children.

The Banney Forest marks the transition between the beech-rich forests of the Vosges Saônoises and the varied species of the Haute-Saône plains. This ancient forest, once owned by the monks of Luxeuil Abbey, has many treasures: springs, fountains, an old Roman road and the Route Napoléon.

Starting from the Banney animal park, where you can admire wild boar and deer, and close to the Luxeuil-les-Bains spa centre, you will walk through woods to admire Gallo-Roman remains such as the pretty Vosges sandstone fountains. You can refresh yourself, rest or have a picnic on the wooden and stone tables provided.

On the outskirts of the spa town of Luxeuil-les-Bains, the Forêt des Sept Chevaux and its two lakes invite you to enjoy a walk in the heart of nature, in a preserved environment. Well-shaded and easily accessible, this route offers lovely views all year round. For those wishing to shorten the route, the Circuit des Deux Lacs, 2.5 km long, allows you to walk around the site in about an hour.

Founded by the first Christian missionaries from Ireland, Fontaine-lès-Luxeuil has preserved the memory of time in the stones of its built heritage. These snippets of history can be discovered along this walking route, which is dotted with information boards. As you read them, you will learn about the history of the heritage, the distinctive features of the local flora and fauna, as well as certain events that have taken place within the local area.

With an accessible 11 km route, the Bruyères circular path offers an immersion in a preserved and diverse natural heritage. The trail winds through landscapes alternating between shady forests, meadows, ponds, streams and memorials. There are two variants to shorten the route: 5.5 km and 9 km. At the start, a path descends from the car park to the ponds and the communal orchard, running alongside the river through meadows where you can enjoy the rich diversity of flora and trees. Depending on the season, take the time to observe the multitude of habitats and the astonishing variety of flowers, frogs, mosses and mushrooms in the undergrowth.

Hike in the hills above the village of Breuchotte, passing through the heart of the forest, then near ponds and the Breuchin river. Some beautiful views to discover. A steep climb at the start.

This route revisits, refines and extends northwards the original“Route of Stones and Ponds starting from Raddon-et-Chapendu” proposed by the Luxeuil-les-Bains and Southern Vosges Tourist Office, adding two remarkable “stones” and offering a well-equipped picnic area, conveniently situated halfway along the route.Discover the natural and cultural heritage of the Saône Vosges: traditional dwellings (lava-tiled roofs), chalots, lavière (dry-stone huts), forest, ponds and erratic boulders.

A lovely walk through the woods, passing four ponds: Trésurier, Sommepey, la Remoulure and la Cubette.

A circular loop to discover one of the megaliths recorded in Franche-Comté. Expect a steep climb from the start to point 1 and then between points 2 and 3.

This circuit invites you to discover the natural and human heritage of the Vosges Saônoises. Scattered dwellings, crosses, fountains, chalots, lava roofs, typical farms, lavière and bread ovens line the route. Majestic forests, magical ponds, erratic boulders and cherry orchards transport you to a world where nature reigns supreme. Take the time to explore and soak up this unique atmosphere, perfect for meditation.

Every spring, cherry trees cover the Fougerolles-Saint-Valbert area with millions of white flowers. The town also reveals its well-preserved architectural heritage to attentive and curious hikers at every turn of the trail. A succession of streams, orchards, calvaries and farms typical of the Pays de la Vôge will reveal themselves as you wander along the paths. Explore the Pierres-de-Roûge site and admire its imposing blocks of purple sandstone. Route Anneaux Bleus marked.

This short family-friendly route allows you to stop off at the Écomusée du Pays de la Cerise. Set amongst cherry trees, the eco-museum – the starting point of the Route des Chalots – invites you to discover a passion that has become an industry: the production of kirsch. Combining tradition and modernity, come and see, hear and smell the history of Fougerolles cherry brandy.

White cherry trees, red stones and the pearlescent building of the eco-museum – you’ll see a whole spectrum of colours, always a delight.

A hilly route in the countryside, without any major difficulties.

This route takes you along country lanes to discover some of the most beautiful hamlets in Fougerolles. Marked by 23 discovery points, you’ll discover the architectural and historical richness through religious buildings, Fougerolles Castle, fountains, mills, chalots... as well as the geological and landscape context, explored through the observation of underground rocks and exceptional panoramic views.

Travel at nature's pace through the ponds, forest and peat bog of La Grande Pile, a true natural gem of the Southern Vosges. Along the route, there are eight information stations to discover so you don't miss any of the wonders of the La Grande Pile Regional Nature Reserve.