Attractions and places to see around Thervay, a commune in the Jura department of France, offer a variety of cultural sites, notable gardens, and historic monuments. The region serves as a gateway to the wider Franche-Comté area, featuring significant industrial architecture and impressive fortifications. Its landscape includes river valleys and canals, providing diverse points of interest for exploration.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
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It was through the Saint-Hilaire gate that, in 1477, the French soldiers of Louis XI invaded the town. Using the Trojan Horse ruse, Marshal de Craon brought carts filled with barrels and wheat from the villages of Mutigney and Chassey. The inhabitants of Pesmes allowed the carts to enter, and as soon as they passed through the gate, the soldiers appeared.
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For over 300 years, the blast furnaces, renowned throughout France, produced cannonballs initially for the King's army and later for the armies of the Republic. From the 19th century onward, this industry shifted to manufacturing small agricultural and winemaking tools. Guided tours are available by reservation through Culture et Animations Pesmoises.
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With its imperial bell tower typical of the Franche-Comté region, the Church invites you to travel back in time through its construction where the 13th, 14th and 16th centuries intertwine and offers you a journey through varied artistic influences: Burgundian, Comtois and Champenoise.
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In Hans-Peter Kerkeling's book "Ich bin dann mal weg" (I'm Off Then), in which he describes his thoughts and experiences on the Way of St. James through northern Spain, which he walked in June/July 2001, the popular entertainer draws his own personal conclusion before returning from Santiago de Compostela. I would like to offer this final thought, likely matured over weeks on the Camino Frances, to the viewer of this small sacred monument in the form of a wayside cross: "God is the one individual who opens himself infinitely to liberate all. (...) The Creator throws us into the air, only to surprisingly catch us again at the end. It's like the exuberant game that parents play with their children. And the message is: Have faith in the one who throws you, because he loves you and, quite unexpectedly, will also be the catcher. And when I look back, God constantly threw me into the air and caught me again along the way. We met every day." (Hape Kerkeling in “I’m off then. My journey on the Way of St. James”)
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Even though this small sacred monument is not located on the famous Way of St. James through northern Spain, in view of the wayside cross standing here, some thoughts by Hape (Hans-Peter) Kerkeling might be helpful as inspiration. The entertainer, who is particularly famous in Germany, walked the Camino Frances in 2001 and kept a diary, which was published under the title "Ich bin dann mal weg" (I'm off then). In it, he describes his personal encounter with God along the way as follows: "Yesterday, something inside me struck a huge gong. And the sound will reverberate. Sooner or later, this path shakes everyone to their very foundations. I know the sound will slowly fade, but if I listen carefully, I'll be able to hear this reverberation for a very long time to come."
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Very nice walk in the forest of the greenhouse. Sometimes the path runs along the stream, very pleasant when it is hot Recommended
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Cozy stopover right on the bike path.
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for an overnight stay or just a stop for coffee
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The region around Thervay is characterized by its river valleys and canals. You can explore the Canal du Rhône au Rhin, a cycle path that allows discovery of the Doubs Valley. Another scenic natural feature is the Cliffs along the Doubs / Rhône–Rhine Canal, which offer a picturesque passage with picnic spots.
Yes, the area boasts several significant historical and cultural sites. In Pesmes, you can visit the 16th-century Saint-Hilaire Gate, one of only two surviving gates in the town. Also in Pesmes are The Forges of Pesmes, an industrial monument from the 17th century. Further afield, consider the UNESCO World Heritage sites of the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans and the Besançon Citadel.
The area around Thervay offers various cycling opportunities. For road cycling, you can find routes like 'The Doubs – Rhine-Rhône Canal loop from Brans' or 'Dole – Rhine-Rhône Canal loop from Ougney'. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails such as 'Hermitage Cave – Croix Boyon loop from Brans' or 'L'Ognon loop from Pesmes'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Thervay and MTB Trails around Thervay guides.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Cliffs along the Doubs / Rhône–Rhine Canal offer a scenic cycle path with picnic spots, which can be enjoyable for all ages. The Saint-Hilaire Gate in Pesmes is also categorized as family-friendly, allowing for a historical exploration. Additionally, the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans is a UNESCO site that often has educational and engaging exhibits for families.
The region is home to several notable gardens. You can visit the Jardin du Château du Talmay, the Jardin à la Faulx, or the Parc de l'Etang, all within a reasonable distance from Thervay. The Château d'Arcelot also features a significant garden worth exploring.
For those looking to walk or run, there are several trails available. You can find routes like 'Pesmes – Access to the Forges loop from Pesmes' or a 'Running loop from Thervay'. These trails vary in distance and difficulty, offering options for different fitness levels. More running trails can be found in the Running Trails around Thervay guide.
Visitors appreciate the accessibility and scenic beauty of the area. For instance, the Canal du Rhône au Rhin is noted for its good cycle path and ease of access. The Cliffs along the Doubs / Rhône–Rhine Canal are praised for being a very pretty passage with convenient picnic spots. The historical sites like the Saint-Hilaire Gate also offer a rich cultural experience.
Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring the charming village of Bèze, known for its pleasant atmosphere. For a local experience, visit one of the weekly markets in nearby towns like Pontailler-sur-Saône (Saturdays), Auxonne (Fridays), Dole (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays), or Gray (Tuesdays, Fridays) to glimpse local life and products.
Absolutely. The Canal du Rhône au Rhin cycle path has an additional section that allows you to reach the splendid Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it easy to combine natural exploration with a significant historical landmark.
The Forges of Pesmes are a monument of the industrial age, built in 1660. Located on the banks of the Ognon, this metallurgical establishment was historically used to make weapons. Today, it houses a museum and offers a glimpse into the region's industrial heritage.
The Saint-Hilaire Gate is a 16th-century historical site in Pesmes, notable as one of only two surviving gates from the town's original six. It was strategically important, likely the most exposed to external attacks due to its location. It stands near the Saint-Hilaire church, which itself is rich in history and features decorations and artifacts dating from the 12th to 18th centuries.


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