Marnay

Marnay lies on the banks of the River Ognon, and boasts a rich heritage that bears witness to a remarkable past. Take a stroll through the streets of Marnay and you’ll soon understand why it has been awarded the “Cité de Caractère de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté” label.

©Vallée de l'Ognon white logo

A colourful walk

The Château de Marnay is the most eloquent testimony to this. Although rebuilt and remodelled over the centuries, it still retains elements of its medieval past, such as the drawbridge and two majestic turrets. The remains of the surrounding walls add an authentic touch to this historic setting.

As you stroll through the picturesque streets of Marnay, you’ll be charmed by historic sites such as rue Gambetta and its trajes, the traditional narrow streets running between the houses. Don’t miss the Hôtel Terrier de Santans and the church of Saint-Symphorien, which tell the story of the town’s rich and varied history. With its Gothic architecture and colourful stained glass windows, the church is sure to delight lovers of art and history.

View of the Château de Marnay - Cité de caractère - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Marnay|Office de Tourisme du Val Marnaysien

View of a gateway to the Château de Marnay - Cité de caractère - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Marnay|Office de Tourisme du Val Marnaysien

Beautiful houses with a vine on the facade in Marnay - City of character - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Marnay|Office de Tourisme du Val Marnaysien

Beautiful stone house with Saint-Symphorien church in the background - Cité de caractère - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Marnay|Office de Tourisme du Val Marnaysien

Rue Gambetta in Marnay, with its fine buildings, including the laGrange shop - Vincent Ballot - Barbara Bessot Ballot - Cité de caractère - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Marnay|Office de Tourisme du Val Marnaysien

A woman paints on the banks of the river Ognon in Marnay - Cité de caractère - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Marnay|Office de Tourisme du Val Marnaysien

The Ognon at Marnay - A place of character - Ognon Valley — ©Marnay|Karine Altmeyer

Aerial view of Marnay, showing the river Ognon - Cité de caractère - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Marnay|Office de Tourisme du Val Marnaysien

Le Moulin, An unusual place

Further on, you will discover the mill, located at the entrance to a 24-hectare lake, and its fascinating history. Since the Middle Ages, a series of water mills have succeeded one another on this site, which belonged to the Lords of Marnay until the French Revolution. Recently restored, the mill has become a truly atypical piece of architecture.

From the mill, take a stroll around the lake. Imagine strolling along the banks, listening to the murmur of the water and watching the birds nesting in the surrounding trees.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a history buff or just looking for some peace and quiet, the mill and its natural setting will amaze you.

In Marnay Nature is never far away

Marnay is not only steeped in history, it’s also an ideal place for those looking to recharge their batteries in the heart of nature. The town is crossed by the Pilgrim’ s Way to Santiago de Compostela.

A wide range of activities Outdoors

Marnay is the ideal starting point for exploring the surrounding area by bike, thanks to the 40 km signposted “Boucle des Vignes” cycle route. You can also take advantage of the redeveloped old railway line, which offers 7 km of cycling and walking trails, perfect for a stroll with family or friends, following the Ligne des Escargots to Moncley.

For those looking for something more energetic, the River Ognon is a real paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Woka Marnay offers canoe, kayak and stand-up paddle (SUP) hire. You can also hire mountain bikes to explore the surrounding area.

Barbara Bessot Ballot infuses a blend of teas - Maison LaGrange - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©LaGrange House |Maison LaGrange

Vincent Ballot, MOF Roaster, holds a handful of roasted coffee - Maison laGrange - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Maison laGrange|Maison laGrange

Coffee roasting process carried out by Vincent Ballot MOF Torréfacteur - Maison LaGrange - Vallée de l'Ognon — ©Maison laGrange|Maison laGrange

It's time tea!

Don’t leave Marnay without stopping off at LaGrange, a tea and coffee shop run by Vincent Ballot, Meilleur Ouvrier de France Torréfacteur. Here you’ll discover an exquisite selection of teas and coffees, ideal for a gourmet break or to take home a delicious souvenir of your visit.

And don’t forget to drop in at the Tourist Office to make sure you don’t miss out on anything when you visit Marnay!