Le Clerjus brings together two themes: architectural and religious history on the one hand, and ponds, streams and forests on the other. When planning your stay, you can first decide which of these interests you would like to focus on. The historic sites tell of different building phases and uses; the routes and bodies of water offer a different perspective.
Architectural history and religious sites
On the Le Clerjus side of the La Chaudeau metallurgical complex, a chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary was built in 1819–1820 and extended in 1843. This part of the complex also included residential buildings and a school. The chapel, homes and educational use give the historic setting more facets than a single religious building alone.
The church in Le Clerjus has its own architectural history: in 1823, it was rebuilt in place of an older church dating from the 12th century. The church’s history therefore extends further back than the rebuilding itself. A replica of the Grotte de Lourde was also built in La Chaudeau in 1926.
The Moulin Greget adds a history of earlier technical use: grain was milled there, and the mill was powered by a turbine. Alongside the religious buildings, grain processing is another theme.
Ponds, forests and trails
At Étang de la Picarde, an educational trail passes through a beech forest described as a “cathedral.” Visitors interested in nature can find a combination of water, an educational trail and beech forest here. There is also a picnic shelter by the pond, with a table, benches and a stone barbecue. Visitor facilities may change, so check before your visit whether the amenities are available for use.
The Croix Calvaires 2 circular trail leads in the hamlet of Corbefaing to a 14-hectare natural pond maintained by an anglers’ association. The size gives a clear sense of the body of water’s scale. If you would like to fish there, check the local rules first.
The La Mouche circular trail runs between streams, ponds and forests. It also passes the Chapelle de la Chaudeau and a shrine dedicated to Notre Dame des charbonniers. Landscape and named cultural sites feature together along this route—offering a different focus from the pond as the destination of the Croix Calvaires 2 circular trail.
At the La Rochère crossroads, the Croix Jacquot stands opposite a two-hundred-year-old oak. The Croix Jacquot is thus described in relation to a natural landmark, whereas dedication and architectural history are the focus for the chapels and shrine.
The VTT No. 16 La Picarde mountain biking loop runs 90 percent along forest trails. The proportion of forest trails on this route is specified, while the La Mouche circular trail can be described in terms of its landscape features and cultural sites. Since the route may change, check local conditions before setting off.
Tailor your stay to your interests
Discover more destinations: Gironcourt-Sur-Vraine, Colroy-La-Grande, Dommartin-Lès-Remiremont, Taintrux, Martigny-Les-Bains, Sapois, Le Valtin, Housseras.
For the regional travel overview: Vosges.
