Attractions and Places To See around Pointre - Top 20

Pointre and its surroundings offer a rich historical heritage. You can visit Saint-Hilaire Gate, one of the few surviving ancient gates in Pesmes, dating back to the 16th century. Another significant site is The Forges of Pesmes, an industrial monument from the 17th century that once produced cannonballs and now houses a museum. Additionally, the settlement of Auxonne is labeled an “Imperial City” with a notable fortress and ancient streets.

Yes, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mont-Roland is an ancient pilgrimage site dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Located on the heights of Dole, it features a chapel, a calvary, and Stations of the Cross, all set within a forest. It also offers panoramic views of the Doubs Valley and the Jura Mountains. In Auxonne, the church with its distinctive twisted bell tower is also a beautiful religious site.

For scenic views, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Mont-Roland provides a sweeping panorama of the Doubs Valley and the Jura Mountains. While Pointre itself is urban, it serves as a gateway to natural wonders. The Croix Boyon is located in the middle of a forest, offering a pleasant walk along a stream. Further afield in Guadeloupe, sites like Pointe des Châteaux offer beautiful coastal views, and the Grand-Cul-de-Sac-Marin National Park provides opportunities for boat tours through mangrove areas.

The Pointre region is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, including trails like the 'Grotte de l'Ermitage — loop in the bois de la Serre' or the 'Croix Boyon – Hermitage Cave loop'. For cycling enthusiasts, there are options for road cycling and gravel biking, with routes such as 'The Doubs – Rhine-Rhône Canal loop' or 'Charme viewpoint – Croix Boyon loop'.

Yes, several attractions around Pointre are suitable for families. The Croix Boyon offers a pleasant walk through a forest, which can be enjoyable for all ages. The Saint-Hilaire Gate, a historical monument, provides an interesting glimpse into the past. In the broader Guadeloupe region, activities like snorkeling and transparent kayak tours around islets such as Ilet Caret and Îlet du Gosier are popular family options.

Absolutely. The Forges of Pesmes are a significant monument of the industrial age. Built in 1660, this metallurgical establishment on the banks of the Ognon was renowned for producing cannonballs and later agricultural tools. It now houses a museum, offering guided tours by reservation to explore its 300-year history.

Beyond the local highlights, the broader region of Guadeloupe offers distinctive architecture. In Pointe-à-Pitre, the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, known as the 'Iron Cathedral,' is a unique Roman Catholic church built in 1873. Its resilient iron arches have allowed it to withstand numerous earthquakes, making it a remarkable architectural landmark.

Yes, the area around Pointre is well-suited for hiking and walking. You can explore trails like the 'Grotte de l'Ermitage — loop in the bois de la Serre' or the 'Croix Boyon – Hermitage Cave loop from Moissey'. These routes offer moderate difficulty and allow you to experience the local forests and natural landscapes. For more options, refer to the Hiking around Pointre guide.

To immerse yourself in the local culture, visit the vibrant markets in Pointe-à-Pitre. The Marché Saint-Antoine, also known as the Spice Market, offers a sensory journey into Caribbean cuisine with its array of colorful and aromatic spices. The Marché de la Darse, located on the harbor, is another popular spot where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, spices, and local crafts. Exploring these markets provides a direct experience of Guadeloupean traditions.

While not strictly 'hidden,' the Croix Boyon is a unique man-made monument nestled in the middle of a forest, offering a tranquil and pleasant walk along a stream. It's the largest of its kind in the area and provides a peaceful escape. For those interested in local history, the guided tours of The Forges of Pesmes offer a deep dive into the region's industrial past that might be less known to casual visitors.

Cyclists have several options around Pointre. For road cycling, routes like 'The Doubs – Rhine-Rhône Canal loop from Brans' offer moderate distances. If you prefer off-road adventures, there are gravel biking routes, including the 'Charme viewpoint – Croix Boyon loop from Jouhe' or the 'Croix Boyon – Hermitage Cave loop from Offlanges', which range from moderate to difficult. You can find more detailed routes in the respective cycling guides.

Auxonne is an “Imperial City” with a significant historical heritage. Visitors can stroll through its ancient streets, explore its mighty and historic fortress, and admire its beautiful market square. The city's church, particularly known for its twisted bell tower, is also a highlight. Auxonne offers a charming atmosphere with various shops, bars, and restaurants to enjoy.

While Pointre is inland, it's a convenient base for exploring Guadeloupe's marine natural parks. You can take boat tours through the mangrove areas of the Grand-Cul-de-Sac-Marin National Park, which is excellent for birdwatching. Popular islets like Ilet Caret and Îlet du Gosier are accessible via boat trips and are perfect for activities such as snorkeling and transparent kayak tours, offering a chance to experience the vibrant marine life.