La Résie-Saint-Martin offers several distinct ways to enjoy a stay: Saint Martin Church and the Fontaine-lavoir reflect the area’s architectural history, while the “Entre Forges et Forêts” hike leads through a rural, forested landscape. The pond is also home to a picnic area and a boules court. This makes it possible to get to know the village through both its buildings and its outdoor activities.

By the pond: picnics and boules

There is a picnic area and a boules court by the pond. This offers a clear choice between a meal break and a game of boules; those who want to plan both will find them in the same place. Check the condition of the facilities locally before setting out. The pond is therefore an outdoor spot for planning your day, while the church and Fontaine-lavoir appeal to a different, more culture-focused interest.

Architectural history between the church and the Fontaine-lavoir

Saint Martin Church was built in the 18th century. A chrism flask, a vessel for holy oils, was in the church at the time of its listing or examination; the object dates from the second half of the 18th century. Thus, two different dates come into view when looking at the church: one for the building and one for an item of church furnishings. The chrism flask adds a tangible connection to the history of religious furnishings to the architectural perspective.

The Fontaine-lavoir was built at the end of the 19th century by architect Christophe Colard. The French term can be rendered as “fountain washhouse,” clarifying the name of the building. Together with the church, it offers a comparison over time: one building dates from the 18th century, while the other was built at the end of the 19th century. Those interested in architecture can explore different periods of construction and two distinct types of buildings.

Hiking and equestrian activities

For a closer connection with the landscape, the historic nature hike “Entre Forges et Forêts” offers a practical option: it connects Valay and La Résie-Saint-Martin in the Val de Gray and passes through a rural, forested landscape. It is one way to add a hike between the two municipalities to your stay. Check trail conditions locally before setting out. Its focus on the landscape clearly distinguishes it from exploring the local buildings.

Another option is the Écuries de la Gachenotte. They offer courses for riders who bring their own horse. Individual lessons are also available in posturology, dressage, and groundwork and liberty work. The listed forms of instruction have different areas of focus; for the courses, bringing your own horse is explicitly a condition of participation. As programs and lessons may change, check in advance which options and dates are available during your stay.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Bousseraucourt, Fresse, Belfahy, Aisey-Et-Richecourt, Savoyeux, La Basse-Vaivre, Chargey-Lès-Gray, Volon.

For the broader travel guide: Haute-Saône.