Attractions and Places To See around Champigny-Lès-Langres - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Champigny-Lès-Langres include historical landmarks and natural settings in the Haute-Marne department of France. The commune is situated near Langres, a city known for its fortified walls and rich history. Visitors can explore a blend of cultural sites and scenic areas, including waterways and nearby lakes. This region offers diverse points of interest for those exploring its heritage and landscapes.
Best attractions and places to see around Champigny-Lès-Langres
- The most popular attractions is Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres, a religious building with Burgundian-Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements. It was constructed in two phases around 1160 and 1220, and is a significant historical site within the city of Langres.
- Another must-see spot is Porte des Terreaux, a historic gate in Langres. This gateway is one of the entrances to the fortified city, originally built in the early 13th century to allow military convoys to bypass the city center.
- Visitors also love Langres Rack Railway, a former rack railway that connected the lower station of Langres-Marne to the upper town of Langres. Although closed in 1971, traces of its tracks and stations remain, offering views of the fortified city and surrounding countryside.
- Champigny-Lès-Langres is known for its historical sites, religious buildings, and man-made monuments. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient city gates to scenic lake beaches.
- The attractions around Champigny-Lès-Langres are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and over 130 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Saint-Mammès 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 “train” that runs here.
Also worth seeing is the St-Mammès 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 “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 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 Champigny-Lès-Langres and its surroundings?
Champigny-Lès-Langres offers a rich historical tapestry. You can visit the local Church of Saint-Sébastien, the Monumental Fountain at Place de la Fontaine, and several Calvaries. The village also features an Old Rectory, a War Memorial, and a Statue of "Victory". Nearby, in Langres, don't miss the impressive Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres, the historic Porte des Terreaux, and the Porte de l'Hotêl de ville, one of the ancient gates of the fortified city.
Are there any natural attractions or scenic viewpoints near Champigny-Lès-Langres?
While Champigny-Lès-Langres itself is more known for its historical landmarks, the surrounding region offers beautiful natural settings. You can enjoy the tranquil Liez Lake Beach, which provides scenic views of the lake and dam. The broader area around Langres is also known for its natural beauty, including Lake Mouche, which is surrounded by forests and offers picturesque views.
What outdoor activities are available around Champigny-Lès-Langres?
The area around Champigny-Lès-Langres is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, mountain biking, and gravel biking. For running, explore trails like the 'Charmes Lake Dam – Lac de Charmes loop' or the 'Liez Lake Beach – Liez Lake Dam loop'. Mountain bikers can tackle longer routes such as the 'Lac de la Liez peninsula – Saint-Mammès Cathedral loop'. Gravel biking options include the 'Lake Mouche – Tufière de Saint-Ciergues loop'. You can find more details and routes in the dedicated guides for Running Trails, MTB Trails, and Gravel Biking around Champigny-Lès-Langres.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in the area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres is a historical site that can be interesting for all ages. The Langres Rack Railway, though no longer operational, offers historical insights and views that can captivate children. Additionally, Liez Lake Beach provides a sandy area with a playground and picnic spots, perfect for a family day out, especially when swimming is permitted.
What is the Port of Langres-Champigny and what can I do there?
The Port of Langres-Champigny is situated on the canal near the village. It offers a glimpse into the region's waterway history and provides a pleasant area to visit. It's a good spot for a leisurely stroll and to observe canal life.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Champigny-Lès-Langres?
Visitors frequently praise the historical depth and architectural beauty of the region. The Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres is often highlighted for its unique interior and Burgundian-Romanesque style. The city walls of Langres, accessible near sites like the Porte des Terreaux, are popular for walks offering wonderful views. The tranquil setting of Liez Lake Beach is also a favorite for relaxation and family time.
Can I still see traces of the old Langres Rack Railway?
Yes, although the Langres Rack Railway closed in 1971, you can still find traces of its tracks and stations along its former route. This historical railway connected the lower station of Langres-Marne to the upper town of Langres, and exploring its remnants offers unique views of the fortified city and the surrounding countryside.
What is the significance of the Porte des Terreaux in Langres?
The Porte des Terreaux is a significant historic gate in Langres, dating back to the early 13th century. It was originally designed to allow military convoys to bypass the city center. Today, it serves as one of the main entrances to the fortified city and is part of the 3.5 km wall, offering architectural interest and access to scenic routes around the city.
Are there any specific places for swimming near Champigny-Lès-Langres?
Yes, Liez Lake Beach is a designated sandy beach where you can swim when the green flag is raised, indicating good water quality and safety. It's equipped with a solarium, volleyball court, playground, and picnic area, making it a great spot for a refreshing dip during the warmer months.
What kind of architectural details can I find at the Porte de l'Hotêl de ville?
The Porte de l'Hotêl de ville, also known as Porte Gallo-Romaine, is one of Langres's seven fortified gates with origins dating back to Gallo-Roman times. It features an impressive frieze with gargoyles and a coat of arms with the fleur-de-lys. Visitors can admire its architecture, including the barbican and guardhouse, which reflect its historical modifications from the 16th and 18th centuries.
What is the best time of year to visit Champigny-Lès-Langres for outdoor activities?
The region around Champigny-Lès-Langres is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. Spring offers blooming landscapes, while summer is ideal for water activities at Liez Lake. Autumn provides beautiful foliage for hiking and cycling. Winters can be cold, but some outdoor activities are still possible depending on conditions.
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