Attractions and Places To See around Voulaines-Les-Templiers - Top 5

Voulaines-les-Templiers is rich in history, particularly its Templar past. You can visit the Église de la Nativité, a Historic Monument built with stones from the former Templar castle. While the original Templar castle is mostly demolished, a single tower and repurposed architectural elements remain. Other historical village features include an old engraved road marker, a bread oven, and a square dovecote. Further afield, explore Rochefort-sur-Brévon with its beautiful private castle, and Château de Montigny, which is open to visitors and has historical connections to Harry Truman.

Yes, the region features notable castles. Château de Montigny is a historical site with gardens that welcomes visitors from Saturday to Thursday. Additionally, the village of Rochefort-sur-Brévon is home to a very beautiful private castle, which can be admired from the outside within its lush, preserved valley setting.

The area around Voulaines-les-Templiers boasts diverse natural beauty. The Ource River flows through the commune, featuring meanders, secondary arms, and small ponds. The communal forest of Voulaines-les-Templiers is sustainably managed and is home to the rare Lady's Slipper orchid. The broader region includes the Parc National de Forêts and the ecologically rich Marais de Chalmessin. You can also experience the tranquility of the Straight Road Through Forêt de Châtillon, known for its quiet and peaceful atmosphere.

Absolutely! The region is well-suited for hiking. The 'Circuit des Marots' is a recognized 8 km trail showcasing the local natural environment. For more options, you can explore various routes like the 'Rochefort-sur-Brévon – Rochefort-sur-Brevon loop' or the 'Birdsong Trail loop'. Find detailed hiking routes and guides at Hiking around Voulaines-Les-Templiers.

Cyclists can enjoy several scenic routes in the vicinity. Popular options include the 'Val de Choues Abbey loop' which starts from Leuglay or Abbaye du Val des Choues, and a longer 'Saint Mary Magdalene Church – Small stone shelter loop'. For a comprehensive list of cycling tours, visit Cycling around Voulaines-Les-Templiers.

Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. The Château de Montigny offers gardens that families can enjoy. Exploring the quiet Straight Road Through Forêt de Châtillon provides a peaceful forest experience. Additionally, the 'Circuit des Marots' hiking trail and picnic areas like the Aire de pique-nique des Etangs des Marots are great for outdoor family time.

For a moment of peace, consider visiting the Saint Mary Magdalene Church in the tiny hamlet of Les Goulles. It's a small, very quiet church nestled in the heart of the forest, offering a serene stop for reflection.

Yes, the Jardins de l'Abbaye du Val des Choues in Villiers-le-Duc, about 5.4 km from Voulaines-les-Templiers, offer a tranquil cultural experience. For nature enthusiasts, the Maison de la Forêt in nearby Leuglay provides insights into the local forest environment, and the Marais de Chalmessin is recognized for its ecological richness.

The village's name, 'les-Templiers,' directly reflects its rich history. The Knights Templar established a powerful commandery here in the late 12th or early 13th century, which later became a significant site for the Hospitallers. While much of the original castle was demolished, its legacy is evident in the village's identity and the reuse of its stones in the Église de la Nativité.

You can visit Le Bistrot de l'Aubette, which is open on weekends from 12 pm to 8 pm and occasionally hosts concerts. It's a pleasant spot for coffee or a meal.

The terrain around Voulaines-les-Templiers is varied, featuring forests, valleys, and riverbanks. Trails often pass through the communal forest, along the Ource River with its meanders and ponds, and can include gentle slopes or more challenging sections depending on the route. The 'Circuit des Marots' is a good example of a local trail showcasing this diverse environment.

Visitors appreciate the blend of historical exploration and natural beauty. Many enjoy the quiet and peaceful atmosphere of places like the Saint Mary Magdalene Church and the Straight Road Through Forêt de Châtillon. The preserved valley setting of Rochefort-sur-Brévon and the historical significance of Château de Montigny are also highly valued.