Saunières on the Doubs: Hiking and History

Saunières can be explored through two specific themes: the “Entre Saône et Doubs” circular route and the historic traces along the Doubs. The river forms the eastern boundary of the commune. For planning, the route offers a clearly identified trail; the church, former settlement sites and the account of the Roman road provide further points of interest. If you are looking for a hotel in Saunières, these themes can help you decide whether nature and outdoor activities or architectural and local history are a better fit for your stay.

Circular Route and Nature on the Doubs

The marked “Entre Saône et Doubs” circular route is 9.8 kilometres long and rated easy. It is designated for hikers, touring cyclists and mountain bikers. The starting and finishing point is Esplanade Daniel Galuzet in Saunières. The distance, markings and difficulty rating give you specific information for planning your outing; check the route details again before setting off.

The route leads to the site where the remains of a 17th-century boat mill were found. It also passes close to Île du Château, a preserved and sensitive natural area with abundant wildlife and many birds. This means the same route brings together a historic archaeological site and the proximity of an area notable for its natural environment.

Saunières lies on the banks of the Doubs. There are dikes along the river and in the northern part of the commune. Fishing is also among the activities available to visitors in Saunières. The river and its location therefore serve as a distinct point of reference for finding your way around the village and its surrounding area; the circular route offers a separate, clearly described way to explore the surroundings on foot or by bike.

Church and Architectural History

The parish Church of the Assumption houses a 17th-century statue of the Virgin and Child. Its irregular floor plan and the different sections of the building point to several construction phases, one of which dates back to the late 15th or early 16th century. The church has a tiered layout: a square bell tower rises above the nave, with two lower side chapels beside it. Other features include a stair tower, a taller choir and a small sacristy set off the main axis. The varying heights and the offset sacristy make the structure’s layout clear.

The Roman Road and Historic Traces

A branch of the Roman road from Besançon crossed Saunières from north to south, then continued to Verdun. South of the village centre, the hamlet of Le Chaussis is a reminder of this road. The hamlet of La Barre lies on a branch of the Roman road by the Doubs; it is said to have originated as a land and river toll post. This traditional interpretation remains a possibility, not a confirmed explanation of its origins.

Other traces of the past include two Gallo-Roman settlement sites on flood-free heights near the Doubs. Coutépée still mentioned an old port in Saunières in the 18th century. These historic reference points sit alongside the church’s architectural history: its early construction phase dates to the late 15th or early 16th century, and its statue dates to the 17th century. The different dates help distinguish settlement history, transport routes and ecclesiastical architecture.

Saffron Products from the Area

A description of Safran du Piochys in Saunières, updated in 2020, lists various products made from saffron flowers, including jams, jelly and saffron threads. It states that these are available year-round by appointment and lists sales outlets in the area. As product availability and appointment arrangements may change, contact them in advance if you are specifically looking for these products.

Discover more destinations: Etang-Sur-Arroux, Châteauneuf, Saint-Aubin-Sur-Loire, Crêches-Sur-Saône, Grevilly, Poisson, Chiddes, Laizy.

For the regional travel overview: Saône-Et-Loire.