The best cycling routes around Merviller

Memorial in honor of the defenders of the homeland.

A nice little village in an idyllic region.

It is located on the left bank of the Meurthe, at number 14 rue Denfert-Rochereau. The Saint-Georges church is the church of La Neuveville-lès-Raon, which merged with Raon-l'Etape in 1947. It was built between 1835 and 1838 according to the plans of the district architect Boucher de Saint-Dié. The church was fitted out in 1894. In 1905 the dome was rebuilt. From 1973 to 1978, major restoration work was carried out, both interior and exterior. Inside, among other things, there is an old statue of Our Lady of Sorrows, a painting of Saint Nicholas, who is also the patron saint of wood-floaters, a painted wooden Christ, and a memorial chapel (1922).

Mural by Matthieu Koga in Round-lÉstape

Situated in the heart of the Vosges, this dam, together with Lac de la Plaine, forms an important water reservoir. The dam was built to feed Lac de Pierre-Percée via an underground system. The climb up to it is gradual and rewards you with a view of the peaceful Lac de la Plaine. The road along the lake is ideal for a breather, with little traffic and lots of nature. Perfect for a short break or a photo opportunity during your ride.

"The Mémorial du 363e Régiment d’Infanterie in Pierre-Percée is an impressive bas-relief that pays tribute to the soldiers of this regiment who died during the First World War. The monument is located on the edge of the village, right next to the municipal cemetery, at the address Chemin du Poirier d’Anne. It was designed as a powerful symbol of sacrifice and remembrance, and is classified as a historical monument.

"The Mairie de Badonviller was originally built in 1811, during the Napoleonic era, and served as the administrative centre of the young municipality. After being badly damaged during the First World War, the building was rebuilt in 1924. "Located on the edge of the Vosges in the Meurthe-et-Moselle department, Badonviller is a village with a turbulent history. In the 19th century, it became a local centre thanks to the flourishing faience industry. But it was during the First World War that Badonviller became known nationwide. On 12 August 1914, the village was one of the first French municipalities to be occupied and pillaged by Bavarian troops. This event was widely reported in the French press and made Badonviller a symbol of German brutality. The village was badly damaged during the fighting and later partially rebuilt. Today, monuments, the necropolis and the townscape bear witness to this turbulent period. Badonviller is part of the 'sentiers de mémoire' — memorial routes that keep the history of the war in the Vosges alive."

Étival Abbey is one of the region's three abbeys, along with Moyenmoutier and Senones. The Romanesque church was destroyed by German troops in 1944 and was soon beautifully rebuilt with beautiful stained-glass windows. A truly remarkable church. The former cloister is still visible, and there's a lovely herb garden.