Gray: Architecture, Museum and Saône Experiences

Gray combines architectural history and museum collections with activities on the Saône. When planning your stay, you can choose from several highlights: religious and theatrical architecture, art and archaeology, cycling or a guided river cruise. Buildings and collections take you through different eras; the cycling route and river experience complement the cultural focus with activities on the Saône.

Architecture and Building History

The Basilica of Notre-Dame is a striking architectural landmark. Its nave has a fully ribbed star vault, considered a unique example of Flamboyant Gothic throughout the entire province. Construction began in 1478 and was completed in 1559. The basilica’s history and its distinctive vault form are both central features.

The Hôtel de Ville offers a different perspective: it is a Renaissance building dating from 1567 to 1572, with a polychrome glazed-tile roof. In contrast, the basilica takes you from the town hall’s Renaissance architecture to Flamboyant Gothic. The Italian-style theatre adds another dimension to this architectural history. Built between 1846 and 1849, it retains its historic fittings and most of its original stage machinery. Here, the auditorium and preserved technology take centre stage.

The Hôtel-Dieu contains another distinctive feature: a pharmacy dating from 1722, with 119 faience apothecary jars. The combination of the pharmacy, its date and the jars sets this historical focus apart from church, town hall and theatre architecture, turning attention to the history of pharmacy.

Baron Martin Museum and Views

The Musée Baron Martin displays paintings and sculptures in historic salons, as well as archaeological objects in vaulted medieval cellars. The artworks and archaeological pieces differ both in type and in the spaces where they are exhibited. Château-Musée Baron Martin also includes a shady park. From here, views stretch across the city’s rooftops and the Saône Valley. These views over the cityscape and valley offer a different highlight from the collections displayed in the museum rooms.

Tour Saint-Pierre Fourier: Tours on Request

The Tour Saint-Pierre Fourier has a revolving wooden staircase, considered the only surviving example of its kind in France. It can be visited as part of a guided tour requested through the Val de Gray Tourist Office. Check availability directly with them before your trip.

Cycling Route and Saône Experiences

The Voie Bleue cycling route runs along the Saône through Gray. If you plan to cycle, check route conditions before setting off. The Audacieux, an electric-solar boat, offers guided cruises on the Saône near Gray. Unlike the cycling route, this experience centres on a narrated trip on the water. Timetables and availability may vary, so check these details before your trip.

At the Rendez-vous du Terroir, a guided city tour is combined with a tasting of regional products. Confirm dates and make a reservation before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Pesmes, Aillevillers-Et-Lyaumont, Saint-Sauveur, Villersexel, La Basse-Vaivre, Genevreuille, Étuz, Colombotte

For the wider travel overview: Haute-Saône.