Attractions and Places To See around Fontette - Top 18
Best attractions and places to see around Fontette, a commune in the Aube department of France, offer insights into local history and access to regional features. The area contains remnants of a castle, a 19th-century church with older statues, and a 17th-century cemetery cross. Fontette is also traversed by the "Chemin lorrain," a Roman road, and is situated near natural lakes and several towns with markets.
Best attractions and places to see around Fontette
- The most popular attractions is Essoyes…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
Maison des Renoir
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Essoyes
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Essoyes church
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Saint Rémi Church
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Sainte Beline Chapel
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The chapel of Sainte Beline was built in the 15th century. The chapel is surrounded by lush greenery which invites relaxation and contemplation. You can also admire the fountain and the Calvary built by Abbot Jactat, who restored the chapel and revived the cult of Saint Beline in the 1920s.
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This neo-Gothic church was built in the 19th century to replace the old Romanesque church demolished in 1855. You can admire the stained glass windows and the organ which were donated by the family of Auguste Hériot, a famous businessman and politician. The church is also located in the village of Essoyes, where the painter Pierre-Auguste Renoir spent many summers and painted some of his most famous works.
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This house, called "la Maison des Renoir", is a charming bourgeois residence typical of the region, surrounded by a picturesque landscape of vineyards and hills. Renoir often used the surroundings of the house as a backdrop for his paintings. Today it is open to the public as a museum.
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The church of Essoyes is particularly known for its magnificent stained glass windows which date from the 16th century. These are renowned for their bright colors and tell biblical stories. This church also houses the tomb of Auguste Renoir, the famous French impressionist painter.
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Nice bars and restaurants on the Ource.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites are there to explore in Fontette and its immediate vicinity?
Within Fontette itself, you can find a 19th-century church housing a 13th-century statue of the Virgin and Child, along with 16th-century wooden statues. The commune also features a 17th-century cemetery cross and remnants of a castle. The ancient Roman road, "Chemin lorrain," also passes through Fontette, connecting Langres to Bar-sur-Aube.
Are there any notable art-related attractions near Fontette?
Yes, the village of Essoyes, a popular attraction, is home to the Maison des Renoir. This historical site served as the residence of the Renoir family and is now a museum showcasing the artist's connection to the region. Additionally, the Essoyes church is known for its 16th-century stained glass windows and contains the tomb of painter Auguste Renoir.
What natural attractions are located near Fontette?
Fontette is situated near several significant natural beauty spots. Approximately 29 km away is Lac d'Orient, and the Lacs Amance et du Temple are about 31 km from Fontette. These lakes offer opportunities for enjoying the natural landscape.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do around Fontette?
The area around Fontette offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the moderate 'Chapelle Saint Bernard — loop from Celles-sur-Ource' or the easy 'Maison des Renoir – Essoyes loop from Essoyes'. For more options, explore the hiking guide for Fontette. There are also running and mountain biking routes available, including the 'Essoyes – Abbey of Clairvaux loop from Essoyes' for MTB enthusiasts. Discover more in the running trails guide and the MTB trails guide.
Are there any family-friendly attractions or activities near Fontette?
The Maison des Renoir in Essoyes is a historical site that can be enjoyed by families interested in art and history. The nearby natural lakes like Lac d'Orient also provide opportunities for family outings and enjoying the outdoors.
Where can I experience local culture and markets near Fontette?
Several nearby towns host markets on different days, offering a chance to experience local culture and produce. Essoyes (6 km) has a market on Wednesdays, Mussy-sur-Seine (14 km) on Thursdays, Bar-sur-Seine (17 km) on Fridays, and Bar-sur-Aube (18 km) on Saturdays. Other markets can be found in Vendeuvre-sur-Barse, Les Riceys, Chatillon-sur-Seine, Lusigny-sur-Barse, Brienne-le-Chateau, and Chaource.
What are some other notable châteaux or castles in the region?
Beyond the remnants of a castle in Fontette, you can visit the Château de Tanlay, located about 47 km away in the Yonne department, known for its frescoes and interior decoration. The Château d'Ancy-le-Franc, approximately 48 km from Fontette, is another significant 15th-century castle in the region.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Fontette?
Visitors appreciate the charm of villages like Essoyes, noting its nice bars and restaurants on the Ource river. The historical significance of sites like the Maison des Renoir and the beautiful stained glass windows of the Essoyes church are also highly regarded.
Are there any religious landmarks or chapels to visit?
In addition to Fontette's own church, you can visit the Essoyes church, which is known for its 16th-century stained glass windows and houses Auguste Renoir's tomb. Another notable site is the Sainte Beline Chapel, a 15th-century chapel surrounded by greenery, featuring a fountain and a Calvary.
What are some nearby towns worth visiting for a day trip?
Chatillon-sur-Seine, about 24 km from Fontette, offers a medieval center and is a popular destination. Troyes, located 46 km away, is another popular town in the region known for its historical architecture and charm.
Are there any easy walking trails suitable for a relaxed outing?
Yes, there are easy walking trails available. For instance, the 'Maison des Renoir – Essoyes loop from Essoyes' is an easy 2.6 km route. You can find more options in the hiking guide for Fontette, which includes trails of varying difficulties.
What is the best time of year to visit Fontette for outdoor activities?
While specific weather data isn't provided, the region's natural features and outdoor trails are generally best enjoyed during spring, summer, and early autumn when the weather is milder and more conducive to hiking, cycling, and exploring the lakes.
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