📍 France

SOUTHERN VOSGES: THERMAL SPA TOWNS AND FORTIFIED BORDERS

Thermal waters warming mountain air, Belle Époque elegance of spa towns, fortresses commanding valleys. Eastern France, between wellness and fresh air.

≈ 3
Days
87
Km
3
Stops
📖 3 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Explore Haute-Saône between spas and fortifications. Enjoy Luxeuil-les-Bains and its thermal heritage, observe Vesoul commanding valleys, approach Belfort and its monumental citadel, and connect elegant relaxation with military memory in a discreet territory.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Luxeuil Les Bains

belle époque thermal culture

Luxeuil Les Bains - Photo 1Luxeuil Les Bains - Photo 2Luxeuil Les Bains - Photo 3Luxeuil Les Bains - Photo 4
4 photos
Day 1
🔍

Discover

1
Historic center of Luxeuil-les-Bains (pink sandstone, Renaissance houses)
2
Échevins Tower — climb to the belvedere
3
Saint-Colomban Abbey (exterior and cloister if open)
4
Luxeuil Thermal Baths (17th century facades, exterior observation)
+2 Places visited
🎯

Activities

→
Hiking on the 1000 Ponds plateau (loop from Saint-Bresson ~12 km, easy level)
→
Photographic stroll through the streets of Luxeuil-les-Bains
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 32 km
Travel time: 35min
2
Day

Vesoul

clock tower valley anchor

Vesoul - Photo 1Vesoul - Photo 2Vesoul - Photo 3
3 photos
Day 2
🔍

Discover

1
Walking tour of Vesoul's old center (interior courtyards and facades)
2
Georges-Garret Museum (archaeology & Fine Arts, Gérôme)
3
La Motte Hill — panorama over Vesoul
4
Lake Vesoul-Vaivre — walk along the shores
+2 Places visited
🎯

Activities

→
Heritage walk Vesoul street side and courtyard side
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 55 km
Travel time: 45min
3
Day

Belfort

fortress lion border sentinel

Belfort - Photo 1Belfort - Photo 2Belfort - Photo 3Belfort - Photo 4Belfort - Photo 5
5 photos
Day 3
🔍

Discover

1
Lion of Belfort (Bartholdi) at the foot of the citadel
2
Citadel of Belfort — ramparts and belvedere route
3
Museum of Modern Art — Maurice Jardot Donation
4
Historic center of Belfort — fountains, kiosk, trompe-l'oeil
🎯

Activities

→
"Lion hunt": urban walking route to spot the effigies in the city

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🛡️ Travel advice - France

Check official recommendations

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❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-June): Perfect weather, blooming countryside, ideal for all regions, moderate crowds, excellent value, romantic atmosphere.

Summer (July-August): Warmest weather, peak tourist season, highest prices, crowded attractions, perfect for Mediterranean coast, festival season.

Fall (September-October): Harvest season, comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, wine regions spectacular, excellent photography, good value.

Winter (November-March): Christmas markets, ski season Alps, fewer crowds, lowest prices, cozy indoor attractions, cultural experiences.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 2 and 4 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in France?

Cultural capital with incredible cuisine, world-famous attractions, and diverse regions from Paris to Provence. Experience artistic heritage, wine culture, and sophisticated lifestyle. The country offers excellent infrastructure with cultural depth and culinary excellence. France provides complete cultural experiences with historical significance and modern sophistication in easily accessible destination.