Best attractions and places to see around Velles include a mix of historical sites, natural paths, and unique local features. The area offers opportunities for exploring historical architecture and enjoying walks along streams. Visitors can discover remnants of past eras and experience the local landscape.
Last updated: June 24, 2026
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Nice route for a not too long, varied walk in the green.
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Abbey built between 1150 and 1220 which welcomed Cistercian monks. It was one of the largest and most beautiful in the region because it had the support of many local lords. History, however, did not do it any favors and it suffered plague, famine, wars including that of the Hundred Years and numerous pillagings until the 16th century. The monastery then came under commendation (temporary administration and perception of the abbey's profits by a person who had no obligation to manage the abbey), which did not improve its situation, then new looting and fires took place at the time. during the 16th and 17th centuries. During the 18th century, a new cloister and then a new monastic palace were built but the Revolution passed through and the abbey saw its last hour sounded. Today only remains of the 15th century cloister, a wall of the church transept, the doorman's accommodation and some buildings of the convent which were transformed into a farm.
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If you are looking for a unique and adventurous hiking experience, you can try the Treehouse in Guyonvelle. It's a place where you can stay in treehouses that are perched up to 12 meters high in a beautiful forest. You can enjoy the view of nature, the company of squirrels and birds, and the comfort of home-cooked meals.
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Pleasant trail, little practiced by mountain bike but narrow
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Located at the crossroads of several roads, this large washhouse retains its washing basin. Its two gable walls have large openings to ventilate and light the interior and reveal its metal structure.
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The Chapelle des Vignes (Vineyard Chapel or Notre-Dame-de-Bon-Secours Chapel) was built in 1873 on the initiative of the then priest Father Andrieux. Inside is a plaque commemorating Father Luc Huin, born October 20, 1836 in Guyonvelle, parish priest of Voisey and Melay, apostolic missionary, beheaded in Korea on March 30, 1866 and canonized in Seoul on May 6, 1984 . The chapel overlooks the village and offers a beautiful view of the valley.
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Sometimes a little overgrown in summer
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The area around Velles offers several historical sites. You can visit the Ruins of Cherlieu Abbey, a significant Cistercian abbey built between 1150 and 1220. Though largely in ruins, it still features parts of its 15th-century cloister and other structures. Another historical point of interest is the Melay Washhouse, a large, historical man-made monument. Additionally, the Melay chapel above the French village, built in 1873, offers both historical context and scenic views.
Yes, for a unique and adventurous experience, consider the Tree house in Guyonvelle. Here, you can stay in treehouses perched up to 12 meters high within a beautiful forest, offering a close-to-nature experience.
For scenic views, head to the Melay chapel above the French village. This chapel, built in 1873, overlooks the village of Melay and provides beautiful panoramic views of the valley.
You can enjoy a pleasant walk along the Small path on the banks of the Moulin stream. This natural trail is generally not heavily used and offers a tranquil experience, though it can be a little overgrown in summer.
Velles is a great starting point for cycling. You can find various routes for different cycling styles. Explore options for general cycling or more specific road cycling routes, with distances ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Étang de Saint-Èvre loop from Guyonvelle' or the longer 'Stone Bridge of Port-sur-Saône – Château de Ray-sur-Saône loop'.
Yes, there are several running trails available. You can find routes like the 'Melay Town Hall – Melay Washhouse loop from Melay' or the 'Highland Cattle loop from Velles'. For more options, check out the Running Trails around Velles guide.
Beyond Velles, the Haute-Marne department offers significant landmarks. These include the impressive ramparts of the fortified city of Langres, the historic Auberive Abbey within the Champagne and Burgundy Forests National Park, and the Château du Grand Jardin in Joinville. You can also visit Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises, famous as the home of General Charles de Gaulle.
While specific family-friendly activities are not detailed for Velles itself, the Melay Washhouse is categorized as family-friendly, offering a glimpse into local history. The unique experience of staying in a Tree house could also be an exciting adventure for families.
Trails around Velles, such as the Small path on the banks of the Moulin stream, are generally pleasant natural paths. Some routes, particularly for cycling, can range from moderate to difficult, suggesting varied terrain with some elevation changes.
Visitors appreciate the mix of historical sites, natural paths, and unique local features. Highlights like the Small path on the banks of the Moulin stream are enjoyed for their pleasant, less-trafficked nature, while the Tree house offers a memorable and adventurous stay in nature.
In the wider Haute-Marne region, you can find Lac du Der, which is France's largest artificial lake. It offers various opportunities for water activities and relaxation, though it is not immediately adjacent to Velles.
While the guide focuses on Velles in Haute-Marne, if you were to visit Velles in Indre (Centre-Loire Valley), you could explore the ancient Roman road known as the 'Voie romaine Chaussée de César', which passes through areas like Les Gabettes and La Bataillerie Velles.


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