Les Voivres: Nature, Hiking and Industrial Heritage

When planning a trip to Les Voivres, you can focus on nature, hiking, or local history. At Étang Lallemand, there is a range of things to explore, from adjoining wetlands and an art trail to its former use as a reservoir. The Sentier des Pierres combines a circular hike with preserved evidence of ironworking. If you are looking for a hotel in Les Voivres, first consider whether hiking, nature, or historical sites will be the main focus of your stay.

Nature and Trails

Étang Lallemand and the adjoining wetlands are located within the municipality of Les Voivres. They are among the natural areas designated as “Espaces naturels sensibles” (sensitive natural areas) by the Vosges Department. The designation covers both the water and the neighboring wetlands.

Day fishing is possible at Étang Lallemand. There is also the approximately 350-meter-long Art et Nature discovery trail, featuring educational artworks. The Sentier des Pierres is a 7.7-kilometer circular hike; it is considered easy, and you should allow about three hours to complete it. The contrast between the short art trail and the longer circular hike helps you distinguish the distance and time needed for the day. Check trail conditions before setting out.

History Between Water and Iron

Étang Lallemand was created in 1572 as a reservoir for the canton’s first forges. Its former function connects the pond with the history of ironworking. Another landmark is the preserved ruins of the Forge Quenot, a former ironworks, along the Sentier des Pierres. The pond’s former use and the structural remains of an ironworks represent distinct aspects of industrial history.

Other Historical Landmarks

The Pont des Fées is a remnant of a Roman bridge. The Chapelle de Bonne-Espérance dates from the Second Empire and was renovated by volunteers. These buildings offer historical perspectives different from the evidence of ironworking: the bridge remnant points to Roman history, while the chapel reflects a different era and its renovation by volunteers.

Environmental Activities

L'eaudici offers workshops, outings, and conferences. Its environmental activities explore the pond ecosystem, insects, freshwater fish, and crayfish. The forest program includes looking for signs of wildlife, topics related to fauna and flora, and nighttime outings. To help you choose, consider two separate questions: are you more interested in the pond ecosystem or forest topics, and would you prefer a workshop, an outing, or a conference? Individual programs may change.

Food and Occasions

The Restaurant du Pont des Fées serves traditional cuisine as a hot and cold buffet. It has a terrace and is suitable for groups, birthdays, and family celebrations. If you are planning a group visit or family celebration, the buffet format and terrace are practical details to discuss. As offerings and services may change, ask for the latest details before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Bussang, Châtenois, Brouvelieures, Raon-Aux-Bois, Beaufremont, La Voivre, Nayemont-les-Fosses, Fontenoy-Le-Château

See the regional travel overview: Vosges.