Eglise de Mélisey - Plateau des 1000 Etangs, Southern Vosges — ©Melisey church|Nicolas Bonne

Melisey

Mélisey is one of the 3 gateways to the Échappée des 1000 Étangs, an itinerary dedicated to eco-tourism and the discovery of the region. This small town, combining charm and tranquillity, is the ideal starting point for exploring a region where nature reigns supreme, offering an escape far from the hustle and bustle of city life.

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Welcome to Les 1000 Etangs

Melisey invites nature lovers to take to the hiking, horse-riding, cycling and mountain-biking trails and immerse themselves in the landscapes of the Plateau des 1000 Étangs. This exceptional site, where water and forest weave a rich and preserved network of biodiversity, offers panoramas worthy of Finnish landscapes, which will delight amateur photographers and contemplative types alike.

Discover

View of a pond surrounded by forests and meadows - Plateau des 1000 Etangs, Vosges du Sud — ©Landscape of 1000 Etangs|Charlotte Mosca

Panoramic view of the Grand Rosbeck pond in Melisey, looking like a small Finland - Plateau des 1000 Etangs, Vosges du Sud — ©Grand Rosbeck pond|Nicolas Bonne

Le Grand Rosbeck pond at Melisey - Plateau des 1000 Étangs - Southern Vosges — ©Le Grand Rosbeck pond at Melisey|Charlotte Mosca

Take advantage an idyllic setting

As well as exploring the Plateau, visitors to Melisey and the surrounding area will find a host of activities to enrich their stay. The Étang du Grand Rosbeck, a veritable natural gem, is the perfect place for a beautiful hike or a relaxing break in a peaceful setting.

The La Praille leisure area, on the banks of the River Ognon, offers a great opportunity to cool off on hot summer days: an outdoor swimming pool, children’s play area and picnic tables make it the perfect place for a family day out.

Going hiking

Escape in the 1000 Etangs

Signs for the Echappée des 1000 Etangs, located next to the tourist office of the 1000 Etangs - Plateau des 1000 Etangs, Vosges du Sud — ©Melisey|Nicolas Bonne

Walking through the streets of Melisey, strolling along its ponds or following the paths that wind through the Plateau des 1000 Étangs, visitors will be immersed in a complete sensory experience. The “landscape breaks” along the Echappée des 1000 Étangs route are designed to appeal to all the senses, inviting visitors to take a moment to connect with nature.

The 1000 Lakes Escape

In the wheels of a former racing cyclist

For sports fans, Melisey is the birthplace of cyclist Thibaut Pinot, who made his name during the 2012 Tour de France. Take to the roads of Melisey and the surrounding area by bike, and follow in the footsteps of this emblematic figure of French cycling.

Cyclist Thibaut Pinot, from Haute-Saône (Melisey), at the finish of the 2014 Tour de France stage at La Planche des Belles Filles - Vosges du Sud — ©Thibaut Pinot|ASO/B.Bade

Set off on an adventure

Last but not least, the Tourist Office, housed in the old railway station, hires out electrically-assisted bicycles (EABs) so you can explore the Plateau at your own pace.

View of the Tourist Office in Melisey, with a VAe and its trailer available for hire and signs introducing the Echappée des 1000 Etangs - Plateau des 1000 Etangs, Vosges du Sud — ©Melisey Tourist Office|Office de Tourisme des 1000 Etangs

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