Attractions and Places To See around Saints-Geosmes - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saints-Geosmes include historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. This village, steeped in history, is home to a 13th-century church and a rare 9th-century Carolingian crypt. The area also features the Source of the Marne, marking the origin of a significant waterway, and various fortifications. Visitors can explore a blend of ancient history, religious architecture, and natural points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Saints-Geosmes
- The most popular attractions is Saint-MammĂšs Cathedral of Langres, a religious building that features Burgundian-Romanesque style with Gothic elements. This cathedral, built in two phases around 1160 and 1220, is a central historical landmark in Langres.
- Another must-see spot is Porte des Terreaux, a historic gate in Langres. This gateway, built in the early 13th century, is one of the access points to the fortified city and offers views of its architecture and panoramas.
- Visitors also love Langres Rack Railway, a man-made monument. This railway, the first rack railway built in France, connected the lower station of Langres-Marne to the upper town of Langres.
- Saints-Geosmes is known for its historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural features. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient crypts to the source of a major river.
- The attractions around Saints-Geosmes are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 100 upvotes and over 130 photos, these spots offer diverse experiences.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Saint-MammĂšs Cathedral of Langres
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The city was destroyed by the Vandals around 407 and then rebuilt much smaller. In 731 the city was destroyed, this time by the Saracens.
In 1284, Langres, along with all of Champagne, became part of the French kingdom. In the 14th and 15th centuries, Langres was expanded into a powerful fortress.
It's easy to take a walk along the four-kilometer-long city wall with its twelve towers and seven gates. There is also a small tourist âtrainâ that runs here.
Also worth seeing is the St-MammĂšs Cathedral, built in the Burgundian-Romanesque style with a touch of Gothic. They were built in two phases around 1160 and 1220.
We have made a stopover in Langres for the third time with our motorhome, up in the citadel with a wonderful view of the landscape, and we are happy to come back.
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Porte des Terreaux
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Langres Rack Railway
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Source of the Marne
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Until the mid-19th century, the remains of a Gallo-Roman arch, which marked the northern city limit, were still visible. After being integrated into the fortifications at the end of the 3rd century and becoming a city gate, this structure owes its name either to its length or to a legendary king named Longo, whose effigy was mounted on a corbel overlooking the city. Around 1538, a barbican was built in front of the gate to prevent a frontal assault.
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Nice hike with parking and picnic area nearby. The path leading to the spring is a bit steep and can be slippery if it rains. The Sabinus cave is worth the detour, watch out for children when going there.
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This is the cathedral of Langres.
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Imposing cathedral of a small town steeped in history! Worth seeing from the outside and inside
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The Longe-Porte still has its 17th century guardhouse intact. The barbican of the âLonge-Porteâ gate, projecting from the ramparts, allowed for increased control of access to the town of Langres.
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The Train Ă crĂ©maillĂšre in Langres was the first rack railway in France, connecting the Gare de Langres with the town of Langres, which is situated on a hill. The railway was 1.475 km long and had a maximum gradient of 172 â°. The railway opened in 1887 with steam traction and was electrified in 1935. The railway was closed in 1971 due to obsolescence. One of the old electric trains has been restored and stands on the Promenade Jules Verne in Langres. The other has been taken to the MusĂ©e français du chemin de fer in Mulhouse. The railway was a major attraction for the residents and visitors of Langres, who could enjoy the views over the town and its surroundings.
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Langres Cathedral is dedicated to the 3rd century martyr Mammes of Caesarea. The cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Langres and is a national monument. The cathedral dates from the 12th century and has a mixture of Romanesque, Gothic and Classical styles. The roof is decorated with colourful tiles and the façade has many details. The cathedral has some remarkable tapestries that are worth seeing. The cathedral is also a place of pilgrimage, as it houses the holy relic of the head of Saint Mammes. The cathedral is 94m long and 23m high. The façade was destroyed by fire and replaced in the 18th century by a three-storey classical façade.
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The Marne (Latin Matrona) is a river in France. It rises on the plateau of Langres, in the municipality of Balesmes-sur-Marne, at an altitude of about 420 meters. It initially drains to the northwest, later turns to the west and southwest and flows into the Seine as a right tributary after about 514 kilometers between Charenton-le-Pont and Ivry-sur-Seine, just southeast of Paris. Several French departments are named after the Marne, namely Haute-Marne, Marne, Seine-et-Marne and Val-de-Marne.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Saints-Geosmes?
Saints-Geosmes is rich in history. You can visit the 13th-century Church of the Three Twins, which houses a rare 9th-century Carolingian Crypt. Other historical markers include the 16th-century Cross of Clomier and the Fort de la Bonnelle, part of the 19th-century Langres defense system. Nearby Langres offers further historical exploration, including the impressive Saint-MammĂšs Cathedral of Langres, the historic Porte des Terreaux, and the Porte de l'HotĂȘl de ville.
Are there any significant natural landmarks near Saints-Geosmes?
Absolutely. A notable natural landmark is the Source of the Marne, considered the "kilometer zero" of the Marne River. Just 50 meters away, you can also find the Grottes de Sabinus, linked to local folklore. The area also features several lakes, such as Lac de la Liez, offering scenic views.
What family-friendly activities are available around Saints-Geosmes?
For families, the Liez Lake Beach is a great option, offering swimming, a playground, and picnic areas during summer months. Another unique experience is the Langres Rack Railway, the first of its kind in France, which provides historical insight and views. Exploring the fortifications of Langres also offers an engaging outing for all ages.
Can I go hiking or cycling near Saints-Geosmes?
Yes, the region around Saints-Geosmes is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, road cycling, and mountain biking. For example, there are moderate hiking trails like the "Source de la Marne â loop from Balesmes-sur-Marne" or "The Escargots of Cohons loop from Saints-Geosmes." Cyclists can explore routes around Lake Mouche or Lake Liez. You can find detailed routes and guides for hiking, road cycling, and MTB trails in the area.
What is the Discovery Circuit of Saints-Geosmes?
The Discovery Circuit of Saints-Geosmes is a 2.2 km loop with a 38-meter elevation gain that allows visitors to explore various points of interest within the village. It's a great way to see the historical and cultural highlights of Saints-Geosmes at a leisurely pace.
Where can I find a beach or swimming spot near Saints-Geosmes?
The Liez Lake Beach is a popular sandy beach offering beautiful views of the lake and dam. It's a designated swimming area when the green flag is raised, indicating good water quality and safety. The beach also provides amenities like a solarium, volleyball court, playground, and picnic area, typically open from June to September.
What is the significance of the Church of the Three Twins?
The Church of the Three Twins (Ăglise des Trois-Jumeaux de Saints-Geosmes) is a 13th-century historical landmark built on the site of an earlier Benedictine abbey. It's central to the legend of three twin saints martyred there in the 2nd century. The church features artworks, paintings, sculptures, and notably, the rare 9th-century Carolingian Crypt beneath it.
Are there any viewpoints to enjoy panoramic scenery?
Yes, the fortified city of Langres, which is very close to Saints-Geosmes, offers excellent panoramic views. Walking along its 4-kilometer-long city wall with its twelve towers and seven gates provides stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside. The Porte des Terreaux, for instance, is known for its architectural beauty and panoramas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Saints-Geosmes?
Visitors frequently appreciate the rich historical depth, from ancient Roman influences to medieval architecture and 19th-century fortifications. The blend of cultural sites like the Saint-MammĂšs Cathedral and natural features like the Source of the Marne offers diverse experiences. The area's charm is also enhanced by the well-preserved fortifications of Langres and the scenic beauty of its lakes.
What is the Langres Rack Railway?
The Langres Rack Railway was the first rack railway built in France. It historically connected the lower station of Langres-Marne to the upper town of Langres, overcoming a steep incline. Although closed in 1971, traces of its tracks and stations can still be seen, and a restored train is on display, offering a glimpse into its engineering marvel and historical significance.
Are there any military history sites in the area?
Yes, the Fort de la Bonnelle (Fort DecrĂšs) is a significant military history site near Saints-Geosmes. It was an advanced work of the former defense of Langres, strategically positioned as part of the fortified belt to monitor the south of Langres and the Langres/Dijon axis. The entire fortified city of Langres itself is a testament to military architecture through the ages.
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