Attractions and Places To See around Crainvilliers - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see around Crainvilliers include historical sites and natural features in the Vosges department of France. The area is known for its past mining operations and traces of ancient structures. Nearby, visitors can find thermal spas and natural landscapes, offering a mix of cultural and outdoor experiences. The region provides opportunities for exploring rural architecture and scenic routes along waterways.
Best attractions and places to see around Crainvilliers
- The most popular attractions is Vittel Thermal Park…
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Folie Lakes
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Thermes de Contrexéville
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Vittel Thermal Park
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Ancient Roman Road
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Notre-Dame d'Aureil-Maison chapel
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The Lacs de la Folie site in Contrexéville covers 12 hectares of greenery in the heart of the Vosges Plain, as well as: • its free, supervised outdoor swimming pool and grassy solarium, in July and August (Facebook page Piscine de plein air des Lacs de la Folie), (Swimming prohibited in the lakes) • For families, couples, and athletes, or solo, the tour of the lakes is accessible on foot, by bike, with a stroller, or in a wheelchair • It's also the starting point for numerous marked and shaded trails, including the Sentier des Lacs at the Vittel Thermal Park, which is 6 km long and accessible on foot or by bike • its pedal boat and paddleboard rentals with "Pedal'Eau mentalo" • its "Accrofolie" treetop adventure park with courses and zip lines for children and adults (children from 1 m tall) and where you'll also find an escape game • It's also a paradise for Fishing, particularly for carp, trout, tench, roach, and other gudgeon, is available from the banks only (fishing fees per day and per line, collected on site by the fish warden). • The ideal place for a picnic, a drink, an ice cream, or a meal on the terrace overlooking the lakes, and there are also playgrounds for children. • Free parking. Everything you need for a relaxing family time! The Upper Lake Created in 1929, it is elongated, nearly 400 meters long and covers an area of 4.5 hectares. The Lower Lake Created in 1960, it is separated from the former only by a dike through which a road runs. The 200-meter-long straight dam gives it an area of 5.5 hectares.
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The first mention of this chapel dates back to 1043, when the Bishop of Toul, Brunon de Dabo (1026-1051), approved the creation of the Deuilly Priory. Indeed, we learn that the small monastery then owned half of the church of Aureil-Maison (mediatatem ecclesiae de Aurelii mansionibus). From the mid-12th century, the chapel was rebuilt in the Romanesque style, beginning with the choir and continuing with the nave. In 1188, the Bishop of Toul, Pierre de Brixey (1168-1191), confirmed that the chapel of Aureil-Maison was indeed part of the Deuilly Priory, whose prior appointed the parish priest. In 1195, Pope Celestine III (1191-1198) validated this possession in Deuilly again.
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The thermal baths in Vittel are presented in a typically French style, slightly outdated and yet somehow attractive. There is also a large park where you can linger. Everything blooms and is stylishly arranged.
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Here there is a little relaxation for the tormented body
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Mix of gravel and asphalt road on the course of an ancient roman road
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The church of Saint Epvre you will find in counterxeville to the right of the town hall in the rue cardinale bourne. It is an extraordinary church. In the interior you will find paintings of the Soldaten. It is an artifact of the third war of the Armored Division from Normandy to Alsace.
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The Thermes de Contrexeville are to the right of the tourist office in the area here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Crainvilliers?
The region offers several natural highlights. You can visit Folie Lakes, a 12-hectare green area in Contrexéville, perfect for walks and relaxation. The Vittel Thermal Park also features a large, beautifully arranged park. Additionally, the scenic Canal des Vosges and the Cotes de Meuse area provide opportunities to enjoy the natural landscape.
Are there hiking or walking trails near Crainvilliers?
Yes, there are several options for walking and hiking. The Folie Lakes site is a starting point for numerous marked and shaded trails, including the 6 km Sentier des Lacs that connects to the Vittel Thermal Park. You can also explore sections of the Ancient Roman Road, which offers a mix of gravel and asphalt paths. For more options, check out the cycling and walking routes around Crainvilliers.
What historical sites can I visit in and around Crainvilliers?
Crainvilliers has a rich historical past. You can find remnants of its former mining operations, such as slag heaps, from the Vosges Keuperian coal mining basin. There are also traces of ancient structures, including a former medieval fortified castle and a Templar house. The Ancient Roman Road is another historical point of interest, and the Notre-Dame d'Aureil-Maison chapel, with mentions dating back to 1043, showcases Romanesque architecture.
Can I learn about the mining history of Crainvilliers?
Yes, Crainvilliers was part of the Vosges Keuperian coal mining basin, with operations until 1869. Remnants of these historical mining activities, such as slag heaps and funnels from shafts, are still present. The Contrexéville Local Studies Circle sometimes organizes guided tours during heritage days, offering insights into this industrial past. More information can be found on Wikipedia.
Are there family-friendly activities around Crainvilliers?
Absolutely! The Folie Lakes in Contrexéville is an excellent spot for families. It features a free, supervised outdoor swimming pool (in July and August), pedal boat and paddleboard rentals, an 'Accrofolie' treetop adventure park with courses and zip lines for all ages, and playgrounds. The area is also ideal for picnics and easy walks.
Where can I find thermal spas or wellness facilities nearby?
The nearby towns of Vittel and Contrexéville are renowned for their thermal spas. You can visit the Vittel Thermal Park, known for its thermal baths and picturesque environment. Another option is Thermes de Contrexéville, which offers facilities for relaxation and wellness.
What cycling routes are available around Crainvilliers?
The area around Crainvilliers is great for cycling. You can find various routes for different types of bikes. For touring bikes, there are options like the 'Bike loop from Contrexéville' or the 'Vittel Spa Resort loop'. Road cyclists can explore longer routes such as the 'Vosges canal – Croix Blosse loop'. Gravel biking enthusiasts also have routes like the 'Super – Excalibur in rock loop from Bulgnéville'. Discover more details on the Cycling around Crainvilliers guide.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths or attractions?
Yes, several attractions are designed with accessibility in mind. The Folie Lakes site is accessible on foot, by bike, with a stroller, or in a wheelchair. Both the Vittel Thermal Park and Thermes de Contrexéville also offer wheelchair-accessible facilities.
When is the best time to visit Crainvilliers and its surrounding attractions?
The best time to visit largely depends on your preferred activities. For enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and the outdoor swimming pool at Folie Lakes, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal. If you're primarily interested in the thermal spas, they are generally open year-round, offering a relaxing escape regardless of the season.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Crainvilliers?
Visitors appreciate the blend of relaxation and outdoor activity. The Vittel Thermal Park is loved for its magnificent, stylishly arranged blooms and large park for lingering. The Thermes de Contrexéville offer a place for relaxation. Folie Lakes is highly rated for its diverse family-friendly activities, including swimming, adventure sports, and easy walks in a green setting.
Are there any picturesque villages or 'villages in bloom' nearby?
Yes, several nearby towns are recognized for their beautiful floral displays. Vittel (11km), Rollainville (25km), and Gelaucourt (36km) have received 4-star 'Villages in bloom' (ville fleurie) status, indicating picturesque environments worth exploring for their charm and scenery.
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