The medieval town of Pesmes

A remarkable architectural heritage

To discover the architectural treasures of Pesmes, a stroll along its cobbled streets is a must. Explanatory signs mark out your route, revealing the secrets of buildings listed as Historic Monuments, such as the 15th and 16th century Château Rouillard, the 16th century Hôtel Mairot and the old Comédie. Pesmes, as a former strategic location on the road from Gray to Dole, has had a turbulent history. Yet the town has managed to preserve a rich heritage, as evidenced by the 13th- and 16th-century church of Saint-Hilaire, stone houses and winegrowers’ cottages.

The church, listed as a Historic Monument, boasts the typical Comtois bell tower with its colourful glazed tiles.

In short, the narrow streets of Pesmes, with their half-timbered houses and Renaissance facades, offer a real immersion in the past.

Take advantage the breathtaking view

You’ll particularly enjoy walking along the ramparts and taking in the panoramic views.

It’s not for nothing that Pesmes is one of the “Most Beautiful Villages in France”! Pesmes is also known in Haute-Saône as the town with 3 labels, as it is also a “Cité de Caractère de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté” and a “Station Verte”.

View of the Cité de Caractère de Pesmes (Plus Beaux Villages de France) from the town ramparts, with the river Ognon and surrounding countryside in the background - Ognon Valley — ©Pesmes|BothBetter

Forges de Pesmes Museum - Most Beautiful Villages in France - Ognon Valley — ©Forges de Pesmes Museum|Office de Tourisme Val de Gray

The Forges de Pesmes: an industrial and cultural heritage

Pesmes is also home to the old forges, an industrial site that bears witness to its prosperous past. The forges date back to 1660, and the site has undergone a number of transformations over the centuries, going from a metallurgical plant to a hydroelectric power station, before becoming a major cultural venue. Today, it hosts artistic and cultural activities such as theatre workshops, concerts, exhibitions and film screenings.

The Musée des Forges de Pesmes is located in the former forge workshops. Open from April to October, it looks back over 3 centuries of history. A permanent ironmonger on the premises gives demonstrations to the public during tours.

Filling up outdoor activities

The River Ognon, which runs alongside Pesmes, offers a multitude of outdoor activities: fishing, hiking, cycling, or simply lounging by the water. To see Pesmes from a different angle, there’s nothing like going to the nautical base to hire a canoe or kayak and set off paddling on the peaceful waters of the river.

Whether with family or friends, the River Ognon is the ideal place to relax and enjoy nature.

Canoeing down the Ognon

Ile Art Park in Malans

Finally, after your visit to Pesmes, don’t forget to extend your discovery with an artistic escapade!

Near Pesmes, the Ile Art park in Malans offers a unique artistic experience right in the middle of the forest. The park offers an unusual walk through contemporary works of art, exhibited in an open-air museum that is open all year round.

Discover the park

This picturesque town, with its cobbled streets, remarkable architecture and breathtaking views over the river Ognon, is sure to charm you. So let yourself be tempted by a trip to Pesmes!