Attractions and Places To See around Courcelles-En-Montagne - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Courcelles-En-Montagne are primarily characterized by the region's natural beauty and historical significance. Located in the Haute-Marne department of France's Grand Est region, the area is part of the distinctive Langres plateau, featuring limestone landscapes with cliffs, gorges, and a network of springs. This environment supports diverse flora and fauna, including rare forest habitats. The village also serves as a base for exploring historically rich towns nearby.
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Last updated: May 21, 2026
Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres
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The city was destroyed by the Vandals …
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Door Lanyard Door
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Auberive Abbey
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Porte des Terreaux
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Langres Rack Railway
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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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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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A very beautiful little path between a small moat and the stream. Everything looks very idyllic, like something out of a fairytale.
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The Longe-Porte still has its 17th century guardhouse intact. The barbican of the “Longe-Porte” gate, projecting from the ramparts, allowed for increased control of access to the town of Langres.
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The Train à crémaillère 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 ‰. 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 Musée 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 Porte des Terreaux is a historic gate in Langres. It is one of the gateways to the fortified city, which is surrounded by a 3.5 km wall. The gate was built in the early 13th century to allow military convoys to bypass the city center. The gate had a double drawbridge and a barbican, a defense structure that was later demolished. The gate also has a mâchicoulis cornice (extension above the entrance), a medieval architectural element.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore near Courcelles-en-Montagne?
The area is rich in natural beauty, particularly the Source de Sénance and Vallon de Senance. This site, part of the distinctive Langres plateau, features steep cliffs, narrow gorges, and a vibrant ecosystem with springs, streams, and marshes. It's known for rare forest habitats and diverse flora and fauna.
Are there historical sites to visit in or around Courcelles-en-Montagne?
Yes, Courcelles-en-Montagne itself has La Motte Saint-Valentin, a site with archaeological significance. Nearby, the town of Langres offers several historical attractions, including its well-preserved ramparts, the Porte des Terreaux, and the Porte de l'Hotêl de ville. You can also explore Auberive Abbey, a 12th-century Cistercian abbey.
What religious buildings can I visit in the area?
The most prominent religious building is the Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres, a beautiful structure built in the Burgundian-Romanesque style with Gothic elements. Additionally, Auberive Abbey, a historic Cistercian abbey, is also worth exploring.
Are there family-friendly activities available?
In Courcelles-en-Montagne, the Aire de Jeux provides a playground for children aged 2 to 12, along with a pétanque court. In nearby Langres, the Langres Rack Railway, though no longer operational, has a restored train on display and offers insights into local history that can be interesting for families.
What towns are recommended for a day trip from Courcelles-en-Montagne?
Langres, approximately 9 kilometers away, is highly recommended for its three kilometers of well-preserved ramparts and historic city center. Other pleasant options include the small village of Bèze (about 41 kilometers south) and Châtillon-sur-Seine (roughly 49 kilometers west), which boasts a medieval town center.
Can I go hiking or running near Courcelles-en-Montagne?
Yes, the region offers various trails. For running, you can find routes like the 'Lac de la Mouche — loop' or 'Fort de la pointe de Diamant — loop'. Explore more options on the Running Trails around Courcelles-En-Montagne guide.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking or cycling?
Absolutely. The area around Courcelles-en-Montagne is suitable for cycling. Mountain bikers can enjoy routes such as 'Lac de la Liez peninsula – Saint-Mammès Cathedral loop'. For general cycling, there are routes like 'Foulain Canal Bridge – Langres loop'. You can find more details in the MTB Trails around Courcelles-En-Montagne and Cycling around Courcelles-En-Montagne guides.
What makes the Langres plateau unique?
The Langres plateau, where Courcelles-en-Montagne is situated, is characterized by its limestone landscapes, featuring distinctive cliffs, narrow gorges, and a network of springs. This geological formation supports a rich biodiversity, including rare forest habitats and a variety of flora and fauna, making it a wild and mysterious landscape to explore.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Courcelles-en-Montagne?
Visitors frequently appreciate the historical depth and architectural beauty of sites like the Saint-Mammès Cathedral and the city walls of Langres. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Auberive Abbey and the panoramic views from the fortified city gates are also highly praised.
Can I observe wildlife in the region?
Yes, the Vallon de Senance is a crucial sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. It's home to various mammals such as foxes, dormice, and deer, and a wide array of birds and insects. It's particularly important for several bat species and the Marsh Fritillary butterfly.
What is the significance of the city gates in Langres?
Langres is famous for its 3.5 km fortified wall, and its gates, such as the Porte des Terreaux and Porte de l'Hotêl de ville, are historically significant. They provided access to the fortified city, served military purposes, and facilitated trade. They also offer excellent panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
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