Torpes combines a challenging mountain bike route with a distinctive industrial history: the Zuber Rieder paper mill was originally planned for Torpes, but was later built in Boussières. The village also has historic residential and domestic architecture, as well as other cycling routes. When planning a stay, you can weigh up cycling, local history and a November event.
Location on the Doubs
Torpes lies in the Doubs valley on the river’s right bank, on a plateau 20 to 40 metres above the river. Château de Torpes stands on a rock about 20 metres high. The different height measurements describe the plateau and the rock as distinct features of the terrain.
Planning mountain bike routes
Circuit VTT 38 is 29.7 kilometres long, plus 2 kilometres for the out-and-back ride to the circuit. It takes about three hours and is rated difficult. The distance, additional distance, time required and difficulty level together provide useful guidance for planning the ride. Check the latest route information and conditions before setting out.
Circuit VTT 117 is linked to Osselle-Routelle and Torpes. When planning this route, you should also check the latest local route information. This keeps the distinction between the two routes clear: specific distance and time details are given for Circuit VTT 38, while Circuit VTT 117 is described here in terms of its connection with the two villages.
The paper industry and the history of the site
The history of the Zuber Rieder paper mill shows the difference between the original plan and its eventual location. In 1880, land was acquired in Boussières and in the neighbouring commune of Torpes, near the Doubs. The mill was initially planned for Torpes, but was ultimately built in Boussières, where it began operations in 1883. Torpes is therefore linked to the documented site planning, while Boussières was the mill’s actual location.
The industrial system included a weir on the Doubs and a diversion canal. The canal supplied a water-powered building with three turbines. Taken together, the site’s history and technical infrastructure show two distinct aspects of the mill’s story: the decision about where to build and the use of water to power operations.
Workers’ housing and the house at La Piroulette
The workers’ housing estate in Torpes consists of five buildings. Each has a converted attic and a pitched roof with long roof slopes. These recurring features give the group a distinctive architectural character.
In the hamlet of La Piroulette stands a house that illustrates rural architecture from the early 18th century. Many original features have been preserved, reflecting the local craftsmanship and aesthetics of the period in which it was built. Its architectural period and the surviving details complement one another, bringing both the building’s form and its craftsmanship into focus.
Château de Torpes
The medieval structure was destroyed by fire in 1492. In 1735, the château was rebuilt on its ruins. Since 1949, the Louis XVI-style panelling in the salon and the lower room have been listed as historic monuments. The château is privately owned and not open to the public. If you are considering a visit, check access information in advance.
Course de la Grapille in November
The Course de la Grapille takes place on the first Sunday in November. If you would like to plan your trip around the event, check the date of the current edition in advance. This fixed calendar date can then be taken into account when choosing when to travel.
Discover more destinations: Métabief, Mamirolle, Valoreille, Grand'Combe-Châteleu, Belleherbe, Mondon, Cubry, Besançon.
For the broader travel overview: Doubs.
