Activities and culture

Getaway to the Vosges and the surrounding area of Contrexéville

The western part of the Vosges is exposed to all four directions boasting beautiful valleys and hillsides filled with fruit trees that are just calling out for you to come visit.

A discreet historic heritage ….

One of the largest amphitheatres in the world is located in the Vosges, in Grand. It’s just one of the many incredible discoveries to make when leaving Contrexéville.

Traditionally-built villages, remarkable fountains, and Roman church remains are all just a short car-ride away. Close-by is the largest forest of oak trees in France where the first Lorraine glass-making masters developed their art. You can retrace their history in a museum in Hennezel.

By following the Route Thermale, you’ll reach the neighbouring city of Vittel, Bains-les-Bains and then more to the south, Plombières-les-Bains.

Prestigious historic names

Joan of Arc was born in Domrémy and you can visit where she spent her childhood days.

There is also the house where Claude Gellée (called Le Lorrain) was born, and you can admire some of his works at the Musée d’Art Ancien et Contemporain in Epinal along with other famous popular prints.

A cultural life with traditions still very alive today

Besides the traditional holidays (the Gousteur d’Eau ceremony every 3 weeks), the western Vosges region is full of geniuses ….

Mirecourt is the world lute-making capital, Portieux is internationally-known for its crystal glassworks, Darney for its knife-making and the region of Neufchâteau for its master furniture-makers … and the list continues. As you can see, a region rich in know-how!

And more to the north…

At only 45 minutes by car, you can admire Nancy and its magnificent Place Stanislas. Come discover the Art Nouveau architecture and works by Majorelle, Gallé, Vallin…