Esmoulières offers several natural attractions to choose from: the Evouhey moor complex, Saut du Brigandoux, Cascade du Brigandoux and the Plateau des 1000 Étangs circular trail. Local highlights range from several moors and four waterfalls to a wet circular hike. When planning your trip, it is worth choosing not only by the name of an excursion destination, but also by its character: moorland and protected-area designation, waterfall and elevation drop, or a route with seasonal footwear advice.

Evouhey: five moors and their designation

North of the village of Esmoulières, the Evouhey moor complex comprises five moors near the hamlet of the same name. The Ruisseau et tourbière d'Evouhey site is designated a type 1 ZNIEFF area and is included in the Plateau des Mille Étangs Natura 2000 site. The name therefore refers to the local moor complex, while Plateau des Mille Étangs names the Natura 2000 site in which it is included. For nature enthusiasts, Evouhey is a clear focal point if moors and their protected-area designation are the main interest.

Brigandoux: waterfalls and practical information

Saut du Brigandoux consists of four waterfalls with a total drop of 50 metres. It is a type 1 ZNIEFF area in Esmoulières and is included in the Plateau des Mille Étangs Natura 2000 site. Together with the Natura 2000 designation of Ruisseau et tourbière d'Evouhey, this means that two different natural areas share a connection to the Plateau des Mille Étangs. The number of falls and the height give Saut a distinct character: here, the focus is on the waterfall complex, while Evouhey is defined by its group of moors.

Cascade du Brigandoux is considered a natural site rich in legends. It is a tributary of the Beuletin. Fishing is possible near the waterfall complex. At the same time, the Cascade is considered difficult to access. If you are planning a visit, check the access conditions in advance.

Plateau des 1000 Étangs circular trail

The Plateau des 1000 Étangs circular trail in Esmoulières passes through landscapes shaped by glaciers, influenced by water and dotted with mills. The route thus brings together three distinct landscape features: glacial formation, the influence of water and mills in the landscape. The trail is wet; boots are recommended depending on the season. Keep this advice in mind when choosing footwear to suit your travel dates.

To help you choose, compare the practical considerations: for the circular trail, these are the wet conditions and seasonal recommendation to wear boots; for the Cascade, its reputation for difficult access. Saut, meanwhile, can be described by its four waterfalls and 50-metre drop. This lets you choose your nature experience based on equipment, access or the form of the waterfalls.

Discover more destinations: Vesoul, Étuz, Gray-La-Ville, Servance, Vernois Sur Mance, Chariez, Châteney, Cult

For the broader travel overview: Haute-Saône.