Attractions and Places To See around Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres include a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and cultural sites within the Haute-Marne department of France. The area is characterized by its hillside setting, offering expansive views of the surrounding valley and the Lac de la Mouche. Visitors can explore notable landmarks and natural features, making it a destination for those interested in history and outdoor activities like hiking. The region provides a variety of points of interest, from ancient structures…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres
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The city was destroyed by the Vandals …
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Door Lanyard Door
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Porte des Terreaux
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Langres Rack Railway
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Source of the Marne
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Until the mid-19th century, the remains of a Gallo-Roman arch, which marked the northern city limit, were still visible. After being integrated into the fortifications at the end of the 3rd century and becoming a city gate, this structure owes its name either to its length or to a legendary king named Longo, whose effigy was mounted on a corbel overlooking the city. Around 1538, a barbican was built in front of the gate to prevent a frontal assault.
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Nice hike with parking and picnic area nearby. The path leading to the spring is a bit steep and can be slippery if it rains. The Sabinus cave is worth the detour, watch out for children when going there.
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This is the cathedral of Langres.
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Imposing cathedral of a small town steeped in history! Worth seeing from the outside and inside
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The Longe-Porte still has its 17th century guardhouse intact. The barbican of the “Longe-Porte” gate, projecting from the ramparts, allowed for increased control of access to the town of Langres.
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The Train à crémaillère in Langres was the first rack railway in France, connecting the Gare de Langres with the town of Langres, which is situated on a hill. The railway was 1.475 km long and had a maximum gradient of 172 ‰. The railway opened in 1887 with steam traction and was electrified in 1935. The railway was closed in 1971 due to obsolescence. One of the old electric trains has been restored and stands on the Promenade Jules Verne in Langres. The other has been taken to the Musée français du chemin de fer in Mulhouse. The railway was a major attraction for the residents and visitors of Langres, who could enjoy the views over the town and its surroundings.
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Langres Cathedral is dedicated to the 3rd century martyr Mammes of Caesarea. The cathedral is the seat of the Bishop of Langres and is a national monument. The cathedral dates from the 12th century and has a mixture of Romanesque, Gothic and Classical styles. The roof is decorated with colourful tiles and the façade has many details. The cathedral has some remarkable tapestries that are worth seeing. The cathedral is also a place of pilgrimage, as it houses the holy relic of the head of Saint Mammes. The cathedral is 94m long and 23m high. The façade was destroyed by fire and replaced in the 18th century by a three-storey classical façade.
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The Marne (Latin Matrona) is a river in France. It rises on the plateau of Langres, in the municipality of Balesmes-sur-Marne, at an altitude of about 420 meters. It initially drains to the northwest, later turns to the west and southwest and flows into the Seine as a right tributary after about 514 kilometers between Charenton-le-Pont and Ivry-sur-Seine, just southeast of Paris. Several French departments are named after the Marne, namely Haute-Marne, Marne, Seine-et-Marne and Val-de-Marne.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in and around Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres?
The region offers a rich history. You can visit the impressive Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres, known for its Burgundian-Romanesque and Gothic architecture. Another significant site is the Porte des Terreaux, an early 13th-century gate that served as a western access point to the fortified city of Langres. Within Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres itself, you can admire the exterior of the neoclassical Château de Melville and the 15th-century Renaissance Cross at the village's northern entrance.
Are there any unique man-made monuments to see?
Yes, the Langres Rack Railway is a notable man-made monument. It was France's first rack railway, formerly connecting the lower station of Langres-Marne to the upper town of Langres, crossing a viaduct and a steep slope. Although no longer operational, its historical significance and remaining traces are interesting to explore.
What natural features and scenic views can I find near Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres?
Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres is built on a hillside, providing expansive views of the surrounding valley and the arches of the nearby dam. The Liez Lake Beach offers beautiful views of Lac de la Liez and its dam. Additionally, the tranquil Lac de la Mouche, one of the four lakes in the Langres region, is retained by a 410-meter-long dam with viaduct-like architecture, offering scenic reflections and rich flora and fauna.
What outdoor activities are available around Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres?
The area is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy cycling with routes like the 'View of Langres – View to Langres up the lake loop from Langres' or the 'Foulain Canal Bridge – Marne Canal loop from Langres'. For gravel biking, consider the 'Gravel loop from Rolampont' or the 'Lake Mouche – Tufière de Saint-Ciergues loop from Langres'. Mountain biking trails are also plentiful, including the 'Lac de la Liez peninsula – Saint-Mammès Cathedral loop from Langres'. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres, Gravel biking around Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres, and MTB Trails around Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres guides.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres and the Langres Rack Railway are both marked as family-friendly. The Liez Lake Beach is also a great option, offering swimming, a solarium, volleyball court, playground, and picnic area, making it ideal for a family day out.
What is the Porte de l'Hotêl de ville and its significance?
The Porte de l'Hotêl de ville, also known as Porte Gallo-Romaine, is one of the seven gates surrounding the fortified town of Langres. Its origins date back to Gallo-Roman times, though it was rebuilt in 1750. This gate provided direct access to the markets and was a crucial passage for trade, featuring an impressive frieze with gargoyles and a coat of arms.
Can I find public wash houses (lavoirs) in the village?
Yes, Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres features a traditional lavoir (public wash house). This cultural artifact offers a glimpse into daily life from a bygone era, with an open facade, a cast-iron column, and a fountain adorned with a mascaron. It was designed for washerwomen to use both kneeling and standing.
What is the best time to visit Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres for outdoor activities?
The region is enjoyable for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. The Liez Lake Beach is open from June to September for swimming. For hiking and cycling, the milder temperatures of spring and early autumn are often ideal, offering pleasant weather and beautiful scenery.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres?
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical depth and natural beauty. The Saint-Mammès Cathedral is praised for its architecture and the quiet contemplation it offers. The city walls of Langres, including gates like the Porte des Terreaux, are popular for walks and panoramic views. The tranquil settings of Lac de la Mouche and Lac de la Liez are also highly valued for their scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
Are there any specific religious sites in Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres?
Within Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres itself, the Église de la Nativité-de-Notre-Dame is mentioned as a point of interest, indicating its historical and architectural significance to the community. For a grander religious site nearby, the Saint-Mammès Cathedral of Langres is a must-see.
What is the Vallon de Valdonne and its historical significance?
The Vallon de Valdonne, located not far from Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres, is a valley with a rich history dating back to Roman times. It is also associated with legends of the Knights Templar, with tales suggesting the order may have hidden treasure there, adding a mysterious allure to the natural landscape.
Where can I find accommodation or places to eat in Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres?
While specific cafes and restaurants within Saint-Martin-Lès-Langres are not detailed, the former paper mill (Papeteries Navarre) at Château de Melville has been converted into bed and breakfast accommodations along the Mouche river. For more options, the nearby city of Langres offers a wider selection of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
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