Le Tholy: Hiking Trails, Crafts and Village History

Le Tholy is one of the few villages in the Vosges built on a hillside. The village came into being around the middle of the 16th century as a result of a significant influx of people from Alsace. Today, you can explore Le Tholy through specific interests: marked trails, a protected church, and activities related to crafts and regional food.

Hiking, Cycling and Climbing

Le Tholy has more than 55 kilometres of signposted trails for hiking. The local network includes nine signposted and mapped hikes ranging from 2 to 14 kilometres. Six circular routes for mountain bikers, ranging from 10 to 25 kilometres, are signposted and mapped; the marked mountain bike trail network covers more than 110 kilometres and includes all levels of difficulty. You can choose an activity first, then select a route of a suitable length.

One specific mountain biking option is family-friendly circular route no. 1, “Les Roches de la Moulure”. It runs along the heights of Le Tholy, is 22.3 kilometres long and has 670 metres of ascent. The route combines an option explicitly described as family-friendly with a specified distance and a substantial elevation profile.

The fully signposted circular route no. 10, “Les croix de chemin”, follows small roads, forest tracks and paths, and can be completed with a pushchair. The surface therefore varies between different types of route; the route is explicitly stated to be suitable for pushchairs.

For a hike with a clearly described scale, take the trail to Trou de l’Enfer: this moderately difficult route is 5.8 kilometres long, has 200 metres of elevation gain and takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. The route may be impractical in bad weather, so check the conditions before setting out.

There is also a natural climbing site: “Le Champ du Bois” is located in Le Rain Brice, Le Tholy, and is freely accessible. This offers a different way to choose an activity in the area than by the length and elevation profile of a hiking route.

Church, Trail History and Local Discoveries

The Église Saint-Joseph is protected in its entirety as a French historic monument. It was listed by decree on 10 February 2014. The church also holds particular significance for regional stained glass: it was Gabriel Leire’s first work in the region using the glass slumping technique.

The history of individual trails and places also offers insight into the surrounding area. The Sentier du Blaireau was created from 1993 onwards by ASPET, the Association de Sauvegarde du Patrimoine et de l’Environnement du Tholy; the Conservatoire des Sites Lorrains advised the association. Cellet was a filming location for “Les Grandes Gueules”. The Haut Fer, a waterwheel-powered sawmill, once stood there.

Randoland Le Tholy offers a family-friendly treasure hunt. The puzzle sheets are tailored to the age groups 4–6, 7–9 and 9–12, and lead to historical, architectural and natural features. You can use downloadable puzzle sheets or get them from the tourist office.

During opening hours, the Maison des artisans hosts an exhibition of handmade objects and products. If you plan to visit the exhibition, check the opening hours in advance.

Crafts and Regional Products

Didot Knife offers introductory blacksmithing workshops in Le Tholy. With guidance, participants make their own knife. It’s a hands-on introduction to a craft, with the finished piece taking centre stage.

Ferme Babel sells goat’s cheese, cow’s cheese, eggs and honey. Farm visits are available by reservation only, so be sure to bear this in mind in advance of your visit.

La Cave au Gérômé offers regional products, including farmhouse cheeses, smoked specialities from the Vosges, honey and jams. The shop also offers themed tastings. If you plan a tasting or a visit, check the current visitor arrangements in advance.

Discover more destinations: Fremifontaine, Autrey, Rouvres-En-Xaintois, Thaon-Les-Vosges, Bellefontaine, Thiéfosse, Saint-Amé, Grand.

For the regional travel guide: Vosges.