The castle From Ray-sur-Saône

Perched high above the Cité de Caractère of Ray-sur-Saône, the castle of the same name stands majestically, offering visitors a fascinating journey through the centuries. This historic residence is an architectural treasure overlooking the Saône valley.

The history of the château dates back to the 10th century, when the original fortress was built. The 17th and 18th centuries saw the reconstruction and transformation of the château into an elegant classical residence, adapted to the tastes and needs of the time.

©Vesoul-Val de Saône logo

A family heritage Now a heritage site open to the public

May 2015 saw a major turning point in the history of the château. After nine centuries in the family, Countess Diane de Salverte donated this ancestral property to the Department of Haute-Saône. This generous gesture marked the beginning of a new era for the site.

Since its acquisition, the Département has undertaken ambitious restoration work. The roof has been completely redone (roof timbers and roofing), the exterior joinery has been replaced and the façades have been meticulously restored, giving the château back all its former glory. These ongoing efforts are aimed at preserving the authenticity of the château while adapting it to its new role as a tourist attraction.

A must-see in Vesoul-Val de Saône

Unique architecture: two faces, one history

The Château de Ray-sur-Saône is distinguished by its architectural duality: a château-fort and a château d’agrément. On the Saône side, it has an imposing silhouette reminiscent of a fortress, while the main entrance reveals classical facades opening onto landscaped grounds. This juxtaposition of styles bears witness to the château’s evolution over the centuries, each era having left its mark while respecting the legacy of the past.

Visit the castle

The courtyard of honour

The fan-shaped main courtyard leads the way to the former watchtower and the trench tower. In their own way, these architectural elements tell the rich and complex story of this exceptional residence.

The English park 6 hectares of unspoilt nature

The château’s grounds, which are accessible free of charge, are a haven of peace. Its successive terraces, carefully laid out, offer a walk through a collection of exotic trees from all over the world. The highlight of the walk is undoubtedly the exceptional panorama over the Saône valley, offering visitors a breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape.

A family is in the grounds of Ray-sur-Saône castle. They are discovering the site thanks to the Sigéric - Vesoul - Val de Saône game. — ©Château de Ray-sur-Saône|Maxime Naegely

View of the village of Rau-sur-Saône with the Saône in the background - Cité de caractère - Vesoul - Val de Saône — ©Ray-sur-Saône|Charlotte Mosca

A family in the driveway of the Château de Ray-sur-Saône - Vesoul - Val de Saône — ©Château de Ray-sur-Saône|Maxime Naegely

The story At the heart of the stones

As well as its architecture, the château houses some fascinating historical relics. Napoleon’s preciously preserved sabre is a reminder of the imperial epic. The heart of the Duc de Choiseul, an emblematic figure in French diplomacy, also rests here.

A mysterious chest, which legend links to the story of the Holy Shroud, adds a touch of mystery to this place steeped in history.

Explore the château and its grounds

Guided tour& events

The château is open to guided tours in season, and there are many events to keep the place lively: concerts, shows, farmers’ and craftsmen’s markets, flea markets, etc.

WanderIn the park

The park, meanwhile, is an invitation to stroll and contemplate.

The villageof Ray-sur-Saône

From the château, a path leads down to the village of Ray-sur-Saône, a Cité de Caractère in Burgundy-Franche-Comté that’s well worth a visit!