Attractions and Places To See around Velorcey - Top 8
Best attractions and places to see around Velorcey include a mix of historical sites and natural features. Velorcey, a commune in the Haute-Saône department of France, offers local points of interest such as the Église Saint Laurent and several ponds. The wider region provides access to significant landmarks and natural features, including Roman-era spa towns and notable architectural works. The area presents opportunities to explore both local charm and broader regional attractions.
Best attractions and places to see around Velorcey
…Last updated: July 14, 2026
Saint Columban Abbey
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Luxeuil-les-Bains Thermal Baths
Highlight • Other
More than a dozen warm …
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Planey Spring
Highlight • River
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Basilica of Saint Pierre
Highlight • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Luxeuil-les-Bains Historic Town Center
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Velorcey.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Abbey of Saint-Colomban was looted and destroyed in the 8th century, then rebuilt in the 11th century. Secularized during the French Revolution, it was transformed into a minor seminary, then a Catholic college. When the diocese was no longer able to bear the maintenance costs of this immense complex, it was sold in 2024 by the diocese of Besançon to Pascale and Jean-Yves Parisot. Since then, the abbey has been undergoing a complete renovation for over ten million euros.
1
0
It is here that the Romans built the first thermal establishments. The small town therefore prides itself on being the oldest spa town in France. The current thermal establishment only saw the light of day in the 18th century; it was built from red sandstone from the Vosges. Its architect was Nicolas Didelot, a student of Claude-Nicolas Ledoux, the creator of the Saline Royale d'Arc-et-Senans.
1
0
A very impressive monastery complex.
3
6
The organ, originally dating from 1617, is worth seeing. The body is carved from wood.
2
0
The thermal baths are definitely worth a visit. Beautiful grounds all around.
2
0
The closer you get to the actual source, the stronger the blue color of the crystal clear water becomes!
7
0
The Basilica of Saint Pierre (a parish church since 1840) dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries; of its three towers, only one remains, having been rebuilt in 1527. Inside the church, the baroque organ front from the 17th century, the pulpit from Notre-Dame in Paris from 1806, a 16th-century sculpture of Christ lying on a stone table, and the neo-Gothic reliquary of St. Columban are particularly worth seeing. The choir stalls date from the 16th century.
7
0
The modern extension at the back is now a bit old and does not contribute to the beautification of the historic part of the building. More than a dozen warm springs (43-63 °C) already invited the Romans to bathe. The oldest thermal bath in France was built here in the 18th century. The historic thermal building, which has now been modernly furnished, is located in a park in the north of the city. (Wikipedia)
7
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit in and around Velorcey?
In Velorcey itself, you can explore the Église Saint Laurent, a neo-Gothic church with Roman origins, featuring a 17th-century baroque organ front and a 16th-century sculpture of Christ. Other local historical points include a 16th-century turreted house and a 1767 calvary. Nearby, in Luxeuil-les-Bains, visit the historic Saint Columban Abbey, the Basilica of Saint Pierre, and the Luxeuil-les-Bains Historic Town Center.
What natural attractions are there to explore near Velorcey?
Velorcey features three serene ponds within its territory. A prominent natural attraction nearby is Planey Spring, known for its crystal-clear water that becomes a stronger blue closer to its source. Further afield, you can visit the significant mountain of Ballon d'Alsace and the scenic Cascade de la Pissoire waterfall.
Are there any unique architectural sites in the region?
Yes, Velorcey itself has a charming 16th-century turreted house. A truly iconic architectural site nearby is the Ronchamp Chapel (Notre-Dame du Haut), a renowned work by the architect Le Corbusier, located approximately 29 km away.
What are the main attractions in Luxeuil-les-Bains, near Velorcey?
Luxeuil-les-Bains, a historic spa town, offers several key attractions. These include the Saint Columban Abbey, the Basilica of Saint Pierre, and the Luxeuil-les-Bains Historic Town Center. You can also visit the Luxeuil-les-Bains Thermal Baths, known for their warm springs.
Are there opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking or cycling near Velorcey?
Yes, Velorcey offers an existing circuit for mountain biking, horseback riding, and walking that follows an old railway line. For more structured routes, you can find various MTB Trails around Velorcey, Cycling routes around Velorcey, and Road Cycling Routes around Velorcey, catering to different difficulty levels.
Where can I find mountain biking trails around Velorcey?
There are several mountain biking trails available. For example, you can explore the 'Le Planey – Planey Spring loop from Francalmont' which is an easy 19.5 km route. Other moderate options include loops like 'View of Blanzey – Ermitage de Saint-Valbert' or 'Old ruined mill – Etang de la Dame' from Luxeuil-les-Bains. More details can be found on the MTB Trails around Velorcey guide page.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Velorcey?
Yes, the Planey Spring is considered family-friendly, offering a natural setting to explore. The Luxeuil-les-Bains Historic Town Center is also suitable for families to wander through. The commune's participation in the 'Villages Fleuris' competition ensures a pleasant and aesthetically pleasing environment for walks.
What is the best time to visit Velorcey?
Velorcey and its surrounding region can be enjoyed throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking, with the 'Villages Fleuris' showcasing the area's beauty. The thermal baths in Luxeuil-les-Bains are open year-round, offering a relaxing experience regardless of the season.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions near Velorcey?
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty of sites like Planey Spring, noting its crystal-clear, blue waters. The historic and architectural richness of places like the Saint Columban Abbey and the Basilica of Saint Pierre also receive high praise, with many finding the complexes very impressive and the organs worth seeing. The thermal baths in Luxeuil-les-Bains are also a popular highlight for relaxation.
Are there any specific tips for visiting Planey Spring?
When visiting Planey Spring, note that the closer you get to the actual source, the stronger the blue color of the crystal-clear water becomes. This natural site is a sinkhole, 35m deep, with the water maintaining a mild temperature of 11°C year-round.
What kind of cycling routes are available around Velorcey?
You can find a variety of cycling routes, from easy to difficult. For example, an easy 21.5 km 'Bike loop from Hautevelle' is available. More challenging options include the 'The west of Luxeuil-les-Bains — large circuit through FORESTS and fields' which is nearly 70 km. Explore more options on the Cycling around Velorcey guide page.
Is public transport available to reach attractions around Velorcey?
While Velorcey is a smaller commune, the nearby town of Luxeuil-les-Bains is more accessible. For specific public transport options to individual attractions, it's advisable to check local transport schedules or consider driving, as many sites in the Haute-Saône department are best reached by car.
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
