The river Ognon

The river Ognon marks the natural boundary between the Haute-Saône and the Doubs. In the Vallée de l’Ognon, its waters flow for 150km until they meet the Saône, passing through the pretty villages of Villersexel, Marnay, Pesmes…

Getting there

Let yourself be carried by the river

Discover the Ognon Valley in a different way: let yourself be carried away by the magic of this waterway, ideal for outdoor activities.

Its banks are ideal for relaxation, and the pastoral landscapes you’ll pass through will leave you with unforgettable memories.

As you meander along, the Stations Vertes and Cités de Caractère Bourgogne-Franche-Comté come into view, offering a unique insight into the local heritage.

Did you know that the Ognon rises in the southern Vosges, on the Plateau des 1000 Étangs near the Ballon de Servance, at an altitude of 904 m? It is a lowland river with a total length of 215 km.

Living an adventure in the heart of nature

Let yourself be seduced by a canoe trip along the peaceful waters of the River Ognon. Whether you’re into canoeing, kayaking or paddle boarding, this waterway offers an ideal playground for water sports enthusiasts. With its 150km of tranquil stretches, the Ognon invites you to discover its unspoilt landscapes and varied wildlife.

To make the adventure even more accessible, many water sports centres offer boat hire services, making it easy to organise your getaway on the Ognon. Head for Villersexel, Montbozon, Marnay, Pesmes, Voray-sur-l’Ognon or Cromary, and set off in your own boat!

Canoeing down the Ognon

View of the Ognon from a bridge crossing the river - Ognon Valley — ©The river Ognon|BothBetter

A family (a father and his two children) paddling a canoe on the River Ognon in bright sunshine - Ognon Valley — ©Canoeing on the Ognon|Jean-Francois Maillot

A family paddles down the Ognon in a canoe. They are wearing lifejackets - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Canoeing on the Ognon|PAN Villersexel

A trip along the river

For the more adventurous, a guide to canoeing is available free of charge, to help you prepare your trip over several days. This is an original way of discovering the region in slow-tourism mode, taking the time to explore every nook and cranny. This unique experience allows you to escape along the water and fully immerse yourself in the surrounding nature.

In this guide, you’ll find 11 detailed plans to help you make the most of the barrage crossings. The description of the stages will help you prepare for your trip and make sure you don’t miss out on any of the sites to visit along the way!

Get paddling!

The banks full of surprises

In the Vallée de l’Ognon, from châteaux to Cités de Caractère, via an open-air art gallery, the banks of the river Ognon offer a mosaic of places to discover. Discover our selection of places to see along the river to make sure you don’t miss a thing of this colourful destination.

What to see along the river

Fishing, Authentic pleasure

The Ognon is a veritable Eldorado for fishing enthusiasts. The richness of its aquatic fauna guarantees unforgettable moments of fishing: brown trout, grayling, pike, perch, carp… All types of fishing are permitted, giving anglers an authentic experience and allowing everyone to enjoy their passion to the full.

A grandfather and his grandson fishing - Vesoul - Val de Saône — ©Fishing|Maxime Naegely

Living to the rhythm of the river

The River Ognon is a haven of peace for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From the peaceful waters of the Ognon to the charming Cités de Caractère that dot its course, via the bucolic landscapes, every bend in the river promises a new discovery. It’s an invitation to slow down, reconnect with nature and enjoy precious moments with family and friends. So don’t wait any longer and let yourself be carried away by the tranquil rhythm of the Ognon, explore its verdant banks and soak up the unique atmosphere of its picturesque villages.