Pesmes

Pesmes is the Haute-Saône town with 3 labels. Listed as one of the Most Beautiful Villages in France, this medieval village is also recognised as a Cité de Caractère in Burgundy-Franche-Comté and a Station Verte de Vacances. So many labels that testify to the richness and authenticity of this multi-faceted town.

©Vallée de l'Ognon white logo

Pesmes, a medieval town

The medieval town overlooks the River Ognon, offering uninterrupted views of the remains of the fortifications, towers and castle. Although partly in ruins, the castle also tells a fascinating story. The oldest remains probably date back to the 10th century, and the castle played a strategic role during the Hundred Years’ War. Although the residence is not open to visitors, a stroll along the ancient ramparts offers a lovely view.

Porte Saint-Hilaire de Pesmes - Most Beautiful Villages in France - Ognon Valley — ©Pesmes |Office de Tourisme Val de Gray

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

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

A city with a rich heritage

Not to be missed are the 17th-century Maison Royale, the early 13th-century church of Saint-Hilaire and the Hôtel Chateaurouillard. The former forge, a veritable symbol of the region’s industrial history, now houses a museum open from April to October. This site is an important witness to the region’s metallurgical history. Founded in 1660 as a weapons factory, the site underwent considerable expansion at the end of the 18th century with the construction of blast furnaces.

As you stroll along its cobbled streets, you’ll come across many notable houses, town houses and winegrowers’ cottages, testimony to a rich winegrowing past.

In Pesmes Enjoying nature too

Pesmes also has an attractive natural setting. The view from the Île de la Sauvageonne offers a breathtaking panorama of the town and the River Ognon. In summer, the nautical base becomes a popular meeting place for outdoor enthusiasts. You can take part in a range of activities, such as canoeing on the Ognon, and take advantage of the events organised on site.

Paddling on the Ognon

Canoeing on the River Ognon in Pesmes - Plus beaux Villages de France - Ognon Valley — ©Pesmes |Innoveo

Set off on an adventure

Cycling enthusiasts will not be outdone, with a number of cycle routes to explore the surrounding area, including the Boucle des Forges, a 31km route starting in Pesmes.

Cycle loops

A cyclist takes the Trace du Courlis, which links the V50 and the EV6. He is in the middle of nature on a dedicated site in the middle of maize fields - Vesoul - Val de Saône — ©Cyclist |Maxime Naegely

Pesmes A town with a quality label