A church tower restored to its original height after the 1999 storm, and fallow deer roaming freely across a site of more than four hectares: Bavilliers offers a variety of ways to explore. Sacred architectural history and Gallo-Roman traces sit alongside parks and a seven-kilometre circular route. This combination is ideal if you want to pair historical discoveries with time outdoors.
Church and Gallo-Roman Traces
The Église Saint-Ambroise was rebuilt between 1846 and 1850 in a style inspired by Romanesque architecture. Its bell tower tells a later chapter: after the 1999 storm, it was rebuilt to its original height in 2001. Thus, the church’s rebuilding and the later restoration of its tower took place at different times.
The Fontaine Saint-Ambroise includes a small Gallo-Roman aqueduct and a statue of Saint Ambrose made from pink sandstone. Local stonemasons created a new statue. The fountain is near Bavilliers’ old cemetery; an old belief is associated with it, according to which its water was thought to have healing properties for eye inflammation.
The Roman columns also point to the town’s Gallo-Roman origins. Significant remains discovered during excavations are on display at the Belfort Museum. In Bavilliers, you can encounter both architectural history and archaeological evidence; the excavation finds can be seen at the museum.
Parks with Different Highlights
Fallow deer roam freely across a site of more than four hectares in Parc Francis Bedat. Around the former water tower, there are adventure courses and a climbing wall. If these specific facilities are important to your plans, check their condition before your trip.
Parc du ChĂŞnois offers a pond and a natural setting enjoyed by walkers, anglers, riders and families. The two parks have different highlights: fallow deer and activities shape the experience at Parc Francis Bedat, while the pond and nature-based recreation take centre stage at Parc du ChĂŞnois.
Circular Route and Nature in the Surrounding Area
The 7 km circular route in Bavilliers is relatively flat and suitable for family walks. Check the local trail markers before setting off. Another natural attraction is Trou La Dame, between Essert and Bavilliers. There, the Douce disappears underground and re-emerges 150 metres further on. The route is a walking option, while Trou La Dame is a specific water feature.
Regional Activities and Getting Around
Fishing can also be part of your regional plans: AAPPMA Belfort-Bavilliers gives anglers access to five rivers and eleven ponds with a single fishing permit. AAPPMA thus offers a regional fishing option. Check access and the applicable rules before fishing.
The Centre Hippique du Territoire de Belfort is located at Domaine du Chenois, 90800 Bavilliers; bus line 4 is a few minutes’ walk away. If this destination is part of your plans, check current bus connections before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Belfort, Lepuix, Cravanche, Chaux, Lachapelle-Sous-Chaux, Giromagny, Danjoutin, Grosne.
For the broader travel overview: Territoire De Belfort.
