Saint-Mards-en-Othe brings together several distinct themes to help you plan your trip: the Maquis points to the history of the Resistance in the Aube department, while the lavoir recalls the former practice of communal laundry. There is also a circular walking route with two distance options, a cycling tour and regional products. You can shape your stay around history, outdoor activities and local flavours.
Resistance history and a large lavoir
The Maquis de Saint-Mards-en-Othe is one of nine major Resistance sites in the Aube department. Those interested in the history of the Resistance will find a tangible connection to the region here. The Lavoir de Saint-Mards-en-Othe offers a different historical perspective: in terms of size, it is the largest washhouse in the Aube department. It was designed to accommodate around 60 washerwomen. The town’s history is thus reflected both in its Resistance heritage and in a building intended for communal work.
The Nosle and the Vanne
The water network also provides a clear connection to the area: the Nosle is a tributary of the Vanne and flows through Saint-Mards-en-Othe. The distinction is straightforward: the Nosle runs through the town, while the Vanne is the larger watercourse into which it flows. This places Saint-Mards-en-Othe both in its local setting and in the broader context of the Vanne.
On foot or by bicycle
The Circuit de place en place walking route starts in Saint-Mards-en-Othe and leads to the Fontaine Saint Bouin, also in the town. The listed distances are especially useful for planning: the main route is 15 kilometres long, with a 13-kilometre alternative. These two distances give you a concrete way to compare the length of a walk. Check the latest route details before setting out, as they may change.
Another way to get active is the Circuit cyclotouristique de Saint-Mards-en-Othe. The tour starts at Place de la mairie. This gives you different ways to explore the area: a walking route with two stated distances and a cycling tour with a clearly indicated starting point. If you are planning a cycling trip, check the latest route information before departure as well.
A break outdoors
The Base de loisirs de Saint-Mards-en-Othe is located on the DĂ©partementale 150. It has a playground and a picnic area. These facilities give you practical options if you would like to include an outdoor break in your day. Before planning a visit, check current access arrangements and the condition of the facilities, as both may change.
Regional products
La Ferme des Cavettes offers cider and apple juice made from local varieties grown in its traditional orchards. These orchards are now farmed organically. The products bring together the flavour of the apples and the way the orchards are farmed; if you are interested in a particular product, check what is currently available in advance.
The Distillerie artisanale du Pays d’Othe is associated with fruit ratafia, Epin’Othe, eaux-de-vie, French whisky and vodka. Together, these two sources of local products offer a glimpse of different aspects of regional produce: cider and apple juice on the one hand, and various spirits on the other. When planning your trip, you can make regional products a focus alongside historic sites and walking routes.
Discover more destinations: Landreville, Gyé-Sur-Seine, Charmont-sous-Barbuise, Saint-Parres-aux-Tertres, Channes, Chaource, Mesnil-Sellières, Rilly-Sainte-Syre.
Back to the regional travel guide: Aube.
