Attractions and Places To See around Les Forges - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Les Forges are concentrated around the historic city of Épinal, located in the Vosges department. This region offers a blend of historical landmarks, natural features like the Moselle river, and notable man-made structures. Visitors can explore ancient castles, religious buildings, and unique geological formations. The area provides a diverse range of attractions for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Les Forges
- The most popular attractions is Épinal Castle and Park,…
Last updated: May 5, 2026
Golbey canal bridge
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It was built between 1882 and 1885 and was used to transport …
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Sandstone boulders at Les Archettes
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Épinal
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The Basilica of Saint-Maurice
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Épinal Castle and Park
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Épinal consists of two distinct districts stretching across the Moselle: the historic district is on the right bank, and the new town is on the left. The thousand-year-old old town features the charming Place Vosges, lined with arcaded Renaissance houses, such as the Maison des Vogts (Bailiff's House) from 1604, the basilica, the covered market hall, and the Chapter Museum. Classified as a Historic Monument, the Saint-Maurice Basilica, built between the 11th and 13th centuries, was long a place of pilgrimage. Its architecture combines several styles, including Gothic, Champagne, and Burgundy.
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Epinal is a beautiful, compact town on the Moselle. The first stop on any Moselle cycling tour. Perhaps you can take the time to visit the castle ruins.
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On the route from Epinal to Nancy, you drive along the canal, which then crosses the Moselle at this bridge. The bridge structure can be seen below.
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Here you drive/walk alongside the canal, which in turn crosses the Moselle. It's kind of crazy.
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Located in the heart of the Vosges, Épinal is a dynamic city that combines heritage, culture and nature. Its green face, with the conifer and beech forests of the plateaus visible from the city center, makes the town particularly pleasant.
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The Château d'Épinal and the ruins of the old fortress dominate the town of Épinal and the Moselle Valley at an altitude of 387 m. https://fr.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ch%C3%A2teau_d%27%C3%89pinal
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historic canal bridge over the Moselle
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The Saint-Maurice basilica of Epinal is a Catholic basilica located in the French commune of Épinal. https://fr.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basilique_Saint-Maurice_d%27%C3%89pinal
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore around Les Forges?
The area around Les Forges, particularly near Épinal, is rich in history. You can visit the ruins of the 13th-century Épinal Castle and Park, which offers historical insights and panoramic views. Another significant historical landmark is The Basilica of Saint-Maurice, an impressive Roman Catholic basilica built between the 11th and 13th centuries.
Are there any unique natural formations or scenic spots near Les Forges?
Yes, you can discover the Sandstone boulders at Les Archettes, a natural formation of huge sandstone cliffs located close to Archettes. The region also features natural elements like the Moselle river, which adds to the scenic beauty of the landscape.
What kind of outdoor activities are available around Les Forges?
The area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous routes for mountain biking, running, and hiking. For detailed trails, check out the MTB Trails around Les Forges, Running Trails around Les Forges, and Hiking around Les Forges guides.
Where can I find hiking trails near the attractions?
For hiking enthusiasts, there are several trails available. Popular options include the moderate 14.3 km 'Lake Bouzey – Bouzey loop from Les Forges' and easier routes like the 6.2 km 'Hiking loop from Chantraine'. You can find more options and details in the Hiking around Les Forges guide.
Are there cycling or mountain biking routes in the Les Forges area?
Absolutely! The region is well-suited for cycling and mountain biking. You can find routes like the 'Bouzey Lake – Nice single loop from Épinal' (22 km, moderate) or the 'Canal des Vosges – Lake Bouzey loop from Uxegney' (18.7 km, easy). Explore more options in the MTB Trails around Les Forges guide.
What attractions are suitable for families with children around Les Forges?
Families can enjoy exploring the historic Épinal Castle and Park, which offers space for children to roam while adults appreciate the history. The Golbey canal bridge is also a great spot for a family walk or bike ride, offering a unique architectural experience. The Basilica of Saint-Maurice is also considered family-friendly.
Is there any notable architecture or unique man-made structures to see?
Yes, the Golbey canal bridge, also known as Barbelouze bridge, is a significant man-made structure. Built between 1882 and 1885, it spans the Moselle with impressive stone arches and is now a historical site popular with cyclists and pedestrians.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Les Forges?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites, natural landscapes, and architectural marvels. The Épinal Castle and Park is highly popular for its historical significance and panoramic views. The unique Sandstone boulders at Les Archettes also draw interest for their distinct natural beauty. The community has shared over 60 photos and given more than 190 upvotes to the attractions in the area.
What can I see in the city of Épinal itself?
Épinal, the capital of the French department of Vosges, is a dynamic city combining heritage, culture, and nature. Its picturesque old town is vibrant and offers good dining options. You can explore the city's green spaces, including the conifer and beech forests visible from the center, making it a pleasant place to visit.
Are there any running trails near Les Forges?
Yes, there are several running trails. You can find routes like the 'Sports trail loop from Les Forges' (7.4 km, moderate) or the 'Étang de la Comtesse loop from Vosges' (10.5 km, moderate). More options are detailed in the Running Trails around Les Forges guide.
What is the significance of the Moselle river in this region?
The Moselle river is a prominent natural feature in the region around Les Forges. It is crossed by the historic Golbey canal bridge and contributes to the scenic beauty of the area, offering picturesque views and opportunities for riverside activities.
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