Attractions and Places To See around Villers-Pater - Top 13
Attractions and places to see around Villers-Pater, a small commune in the Haute-Saône department of France, primarily offers a quiet rural setting. The surrounding region provides a variety of attractions, including historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest, mostly within a reasonable driving distance. This area is characterized by its tranquil landscapes and historical architecture.
Best attractions and places to see around Villers-Pater
- The most popular attractions is Filain Castle, a Renaissance-style castle. It was built by…
Last updated: July 8, 2026
Vallerois-le-Bois Castle
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Chemin Vert (Vallerois to Vesoul)
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Filain Castle
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Ollans Castle
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Entrance arch of the former Notre-Dame de Bellevaux Abbey
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Bellevaux Abbey was a Cistercian monastery, founded in 1120 by Pons de Morimond, near present-day Cirey, in Haute-Saône, France. At that time it was in Franche-Comté. It was removed in 1790 and sold in 1791. Shortly after, the church was demolished. 1795 the buildings were purchased by Jean-Charles Pichegru. The “castle” site, for its part, hosts events (medieval festivals, markets) in its park thanks to the dynamism of an association seeking to promote the former religious domain. The old abbey is open to visitors from time to time. Information on 06 33 80 08 12 or 03 84 94 84 98.
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Ollans Castle was built in the 18th century. It is surrounded by a vast garden bordered by the river, and decorated with two statues from the 1740s representing Diana and Apollo. It belonged to Charles Derosne, a beekeeping enthusiast and friend of Sully Prudhomme. It is also in this castle that the writer composed his first collection of poetry, Le Bonheur. The castle cannot be visited these days, but it is a great place to take a photo.
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The castle is private property and is only open to the public in the presence of the owners or a member of the association (an appointment can also be made). The rooms are open on Sunday afternoons from mid-April to early October (guided tours at 3:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. or by appointment) and 4 weeks from July 14 to August 15. More info here: https://www.chateau-de-valleroy.fr/
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The castle is of Renaissance style, built by preserving elements of the fortified house of the XVᵉ century and remodeled in the XVIIIᵉ and the XIXᵉ century.
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Perfect made bike path on old railway line. Off the road, great asphalt, always in the countryside. Predicate standard LSE highly recommended!
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit near Villers-Pater?
The region around Villers-Pater is rich in history. You can explore several castles, including the Renaissance-style Filain Castle and Vallerois-le-Bois Castle. Other significant historical sites include the former Cistercian monastery, L'abbaye de Bellevaux, and the historic washhouses and fountains in the Montbozon region, some of which are listed as Historic Monuments.
Are there any family-friendly attractions around Villers-Pater?
Yes, for a family-friendly outing, consider visiting Au gré du pré, a small animal park located just 4.8 km from Villers-Pater. It also features a tea room and sells local goat cheese, offering a pleasant experience for all ages.
Where can I go cycling near Villers-Pater?
The area offers excellent cycling opportunities. A popular choice is the Chemin Vert (Vallerois to Vesoul), a well-developed cycle path on a former railway line, providing a pleasant way to experience the local countryside. For more extensive road cycling routes, you can find options like the 'Vallerois-le-Bois Castle – Filain Castle loop' or the 'Vesoul – Old Tacot Route loop'. You can find detailed routes and guides for road cycling around Villers-Pater on the komoot guide for Road Cycling Routes.
What kind of outdoor activities are available besides cycling?
Beyond cycling, the region around Villers-Pater is ideal for hiking, walking, and mountain biking. There are numerous hiking and walking loops, such as those around Vellefaux and Filain. For mountain biking enthusiasts, trails like the 'Forest Path – Pretty little fountain loop from Rioz' offer a great adventure. You can explore various routes for running and mountain biking through the dedicated komoot guides: Running Trails around Villers-Pater and MTB Trails around Villers-Pater.
Are there any notable architectural sites in the wider region?
Yes, for those interested in architecture, the famous Ronchamp Chapel, designed by Le Corbusier, is about 43 km away. Another significant site is the Saline Royale (Royal Saltworks) at Arc-et-Senans, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a historical industrial complex, located approximately 56 km from Villers-Pater.
Can I visit any castles around Villers-Pater?
Absolutely. You can visit Vallerois-le-Bois Castle, which is a private property but opens to the public on specific Sunday afternoons from mid-April to early October, and for four weeks between July 14th and August 15th. Guided tours are available. While Ollans Castle cannot be visited inside, its beautiful 18th-century exterior and garden are worth seeing for a photo opportunity. Filain Castle, a Renaissance-style castle, is also a prominent landmark.
What is the best time to visit Villers-Pater for outdoor activities?
The region is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through early autumn. The specific opening times for attractions like Vallerois-le-Bois Castle (mid-April to early October, and July 14th to August 15th) suggest these periods are popular for visitors. The weather during these months is typically favorable for cycling, hiking, and exploring historical sites.
Are there any towns or villages worth exploring nearby?
Yes, Vesoul, about 17 km away, is a pleasant town to visit. Further afield, Besançon (26 km) boasts a citadel, a cathedral, and impressive 16th-century townhouses. Lods, recognized as one of France's 'Most Beautiful Villages' (47 km), is also a charming place to explore, particularly along the river.
Are there any natural features or scenic spots to enjoy?
The area around Villers-Pater offers tranquil landscapes. You can enjoy the countryside along the Chemin Vert cycling path. The gardens of Château de Cléron, located next to the Loue river (43 km), provide a scenic natural setting. The village of Lods, situated along a river, also offers picturesque views.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Villers-Pater?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites and natural beauty. The Vallerois-le-Bois Castle is valued for its historical tours, while the Chemin Vert is praised as a 'perfectly made bike path' for its scenic, off-road experience. The region's quiet, rural setting provides a peaceful escape.
Is public transport available to reach attractions near Villers-Pater?
While Villers-Pater itself is a small commune, reaching many of the surrounding attractions often requires a car due to their rural locations. Public transport options might be limited, so planning your journey with private transport is generally recommended for flexibility.
Are there any places to eat or drink in Villers-Pater or nearby?
Villers-Pater is a small, quiet commune, so dining options directly within the village may be limited. However, nearby towns like Vesoul (17 km) will offer a wider selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Au gré du pré, the animal park just 4.8 km away, also features a tea room.
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