Attractions and Places To See around La Grande-Résie - Top 17
Best attractions and places to see around La Grande-Résie, a rural commune in the Haute-Saône department of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, offer a blend of local heritage and natural settings. The area features varied terrain, with altitudes ranging from 192m to 222m across its 4.76 km² area. Visitors can explore historical sites and tranquil natural landscapes, providing insights into the region's past and environment.
Best attractions and places to see around La Grande-Résie
- The most popular attractions is Apremont Dam,…
Last updated: July 14, 2026
Saint-Hilaire Gate
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The Forges of Pesmes
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Apremont Dam
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Royal House
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15th - 16th century
Monument
The initial function of this building remains obscure. The Royal House was probably integrated into the city's fortifications, constituting a real barrier between …
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Pesmes: Medieval town.
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Former strategic place on the way leading from Gray to Dole, Pesmes knew a turbulent history by the various occupations of which it was the object before becoming French …
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It was through the Saint-Hilaire gate that, in 1477, the French soldiers of Louis XI invaded the town. Using the Trojan Horse ruse, Marshal de Craon brought carts filled with barrels and wheat from the villages of Mutigney and Chassey. The inhabitants of Pesmes allowed the carts to enter, and as soon as they passed through the gate, the soldiers appeared.
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For over 300 years, the blast furnaces, renowned throughout France, produced cannonballs initially for the King's army and later for the armies of the Republic. From the 19th century onward, this industry shifted to manufacturing small agricultural and winemaking tools. Guided tours are available by reservation through Culture et Animations Pesmoises.
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With its imperial bell tower typical of the Franche-Comté region, the Church invites you to travel back in time through its construction where the 13th, 14th and 16th centuries intertwine and offers you a journey through varied artistic influences: Burgundian, Comtois and Champenoise.
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This dam has a fixed part and a mobile part each measuring about fifty meters long. This structure was completely overhauled in 2014 after six years of work. Thus, the original dam dating from the 1840s was equipped with a fish pass and a footbridge on which pedestrians and cyclists can circulate to cross the watercourse.
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The Saint-Hilaire church originally dates from the 12th century and was remodeled in the late Gothic style in the early 17th century. It is richly decorated: an alabaster altar in the side chapel of d'Andelot (15th century) decorated with Renaissance-style marble, a marble statue of Mary (15th century) by Jean de La Huerta, a triptych (16th century) by Jacques Prévost, furniture, paneling and statues from the 16th to 18th centuries, a pulpit (16th century) by Claude Le Rupt and numerous tombstones. The former priory chapel has also been preserved. A stone cross from the 14th century stands in the cemetery; other stone wayside crosses from this period can be found in the town.
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15th century fortified house Private historical monument Guided tours by appointment from May 1 to September 30 Tel: 03 84 31 23 23
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Royal House 15th - 16th century Monument The initial function of this building remains obscure. The Royal House was probably integrated into the city's fortifications, constituting a real barrier between the border district and the town. This defensive role is suggested by the presence, on the southeast facade (river side), of loopholes and firing points. The large interior volume also suggests that the building was used as a warehouse.
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The 16th century Porte Saint-Hilaire is one of only two surviving gates out of the six known in Pesmes. The Saint-Hilaire gate, not benefiting from the natural protection of a rocky escarpment, was undoubtedly the most exposed to external attacks.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around La Grande-Résie?
The region offers several historical sites. You can visit the Saint-Hilaire Gate in Pesmes, a 16th-century gate with a nearby 12th-century church. Another significant site is The Forges of Pesmes, an industrial monument from 1660 that once produced weapons. Additionally, the Cistercian Acey Abbey, founded in 1136, showcases well-preserved Cistercian architecture.
Are there any family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Apremont Dam features a footbridge for pedestrians and cyclists, making it a pleasant spot for a family stroll. The historical Saint-Hilaire Gate and Acey Abbey are also categorized as family-friendly, offering educational and engaging visits.
What natural features or scenic spots are there for walking?
The Résie Valley, through which the Résie stream flows, offers picturesque landscapes ideal for tranquil walks. While within La Grande-Résie itself, you can also find the charming Le Vieux Pont sur la Résie (Old Bridge over the Résie). For a more structured walk, consider the small island hike near The Forges of Pesmes, which includes a footbridge and the Ognon barrage.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near La Grande-Résie?
The area is great for cycling and mountain biking. You can find various routes, such as the 'Loop of the Forges' for road cycling, or the 'Apremont Dam loop from Germigney' for mountain biking. There are also touring bicycle routes like the 'Apremont Dam – Pontailler-sur-Saône loop'. You can explore more options on the dedicated guides for Road Cycling Routes, MTB Trails, and Cycling around La Grande-Résie.
Are there any notable bridges or man-made structures to see?
Yes, the Apremont Dam is a significant man-made structure that was overhauled in 2014. It features a fixed and mobile part, and a footbridge for pedestrians and cyclists. Within La Grande-Résie, the historic Le Vieux Pont sur la Résie (Old Bridge over the Résie) also contributes to the local charm.
What is the best time to visit La Grande-Résie for outdoor activities?
La Grande-Résie, with its varied terrain and picturesque valleys, is generally pleasant for outdoor activities during spring, summer, and early autumn. These seasons offer milder weather conditions suitable for walking, cycling, and exploring historical sites. Winter can be colder, but the tranquil landscapes still hold a certain charm.
What is special about the town of Pesmes, which is nearby?
Pesmes is a medieval town with a rich history. It features remains of a castle, the Saint-Hilaire church (dating from the 13th and 16th centuries), and various historical gates, including the Saint-Hilaire Gate. The town's residences and winegrowers' houses along the Ognon river evoke its past as a strategic location and wine-growing village.
Can I find information about the local heritage of La Grande-Résie itself?
La Grande-Résie offers glimpses into local heritage. It is home to an 18th-century château, designed in a neo-Gothic style, which stands on the site of a former medieval fortified castle. The commune also features La Chapelle de la Sainte-Trinité (Chapel of the Holy Trinity) and Le Vieux Pont sur la Résie (Old Bridge over the Résie), contributing to its historical character.
Are there any specific tips for visiting The Forges of Pesmes?
When visiting The Forges of Pesmes, note that the iron works house a museum. Guided tours are available for groups of at least four people and require prior reservation. The Château des Forges, located opposite the ironworks, is privately owned and not open to visitors. Don't miss the small island hike nearby, which includes a footbridge and the Ognon barrage.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around La Grande-Résie?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. Sites like the Apremont Dam are valued for their accessibility and scenic views, while the historical depth of places like the Saint-Hilaire Gate and The Forges of Pesmes offers a journey into the region's past. The tranquility of the natural landscapes, such as the Résie Valley, is also a significant draw.
Are there any religious sites to visit in the vicinity?
Yes, the Acey Abbey is a prominent religious site. This Cistercian abbey, founded in 1136, is considered the best-preserved example of Cistercian architecture in Franche-Comté and is still occupied by Cistercian-Trappist monks. Within La Grande-Résie itself, you can also find La Chapelle de la Sainte-Trinité (Chapel of the Holy Trinity).
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