Best attractions and places to see around Vellerot-Lès-Vercel, a small agricultural commune in the Doubs department, offers a blend of natural features and cultural sites. Situated on the Plateau de Villers, the area is characterized by meadows and fields, with the Bute de Plaimbois marking its highest point. Visitors can explore the unique hydrology of the region, including the sources of the Cusancin river, and discover historical landmarks. There are 13 hidden gems waiting to be explored in and around…
Last updated: May 11, 2026
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Please note, this hike was done in May 2025, and the very last section was inaccessible. We were unable to reach the source of the Cusancin River; fallen trees and overgrown vegetation made the path impossible to find. We had to turn around and return to the starting point by road (barely a hundred meters of asphalt).
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Built on the foundations of a 12th century feudal castle, the chapel dominates the hamlet of Val-de-Cusance. It was built in 1880 and bears the name of Saint-Ermenfroi, who had built an abbey intended to accommodate the sick and foreigners in the 7th century. The chapel is the ideal place to enjoy a beautiful panorama of the valley, with greenery as far as the eye can see.
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The blue spring is a Vauclusian spring which emerges in an oval basin. Its depth is nine meters. Divers explored the submerged gallery over a length of 220 meters before stumbling upon a narrowing which was not crossed. The gallery is made up of two siphons. The turquoise blue waters give it its name.
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The Abbaye de la Grâce-Dieu is a former Cistercian abbey located on the banks of the Audeux. It is a peaceful place in a wooded valley.
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It is one of the two sources that feed the Cusancin, a river also known as “the Cuse”. It is greener than the blue of the Cove which is called the Blue Source. This is on the other side of the road. The Cuse and the Anse join and lend their name to the neighboring village: Cusance.
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As the name suggests, this water is crystal clear sea blue. Is it worth visiting and maybe taking a dip?
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by the river, a little corner of paradise
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The region is rich in natural features, notably the unique springs that feed the Cusancin river. You can visit the La Source bleue, known for its striking turquoise-blue water, and the nearby Cusancin spring, which has a distinct green hue. The scenic Cusance Valley also offers beautiful views and opportunities for exploration.
Yes, the area features significant historical and religious landmarks. The Saint-Ermenfroi Chapel, built on the foundations of a 12th-century feudal castle, offers a beautiful panorama of the valley. Another notable site is the Abbaye de la Grâce-Dieu, a former Cistercian abbey situated in a peaceful wooded valley.
The area around Vellerot-Lès-Vercel is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find numerous routes for hiking and cycling. For hiking, explore trails like the Grâce-Dieu Trail or the Val de Cusance Loop. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the Abbaye de la Grâce-Dieu loop. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for hiking and cycling around Vellerot-Lès-Vercel.
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Abbaye de la Grâce-Dieu is considered family-friendly, offering a peaceful setting. The Cusance Valley is also noted as a pleasant place for families to unwind and explore.
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. The turquoise waters of La Source bleue are often highlighted for their stunning appearance. Many also enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the Abbaye de la Grâce-Dieu and the panoramic views from Saint-Ermenfroi Chapel.
The highest point within the commune of Vellerot-Lès-Vercel is the Bute de Plaimbois, reaching an altitude of 704 meters, located southwest of the village.
The greater part of Vellerot-Lès-Vercel's communal territory extends across the Plateau de Villers. This plateau, at an average altitude of 650 meters, is characterized by its expansive meadows and fields, reflecting the area's agricultural heritage.
Yes, several interesting towns and cities are within a reasonable distance. Besançon, about 32 km west, is a larger city with a historic citadel (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and impressive 16th-century townhouses. Other charming villages include Lods, recognized as a 'Most Beautiful Village,' and Ornans, known for its picturesque views along the Loue river.
Absolutely. The region boasts impressive historical fortifications. The Château de Joux, an imposing clifftop castle with a thousand-year history, is located about 41 km south-southwest. Additionally, the gardens of Château de Cléron can be seen near the Loue river, approximately 34 km west-southwest.
The Fontaine-Lavoir de Francheté (Francheté Wash House Fountain) is a local point of interest located within Vellerot-Lès-Vercel itself, offering a glimpse into the village's local heritage.
Yes, the region is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Citadel of Besançon, located in the city of Besançon, is a significant historical site. Further afield, the Great Saltworks of Salins-les-Bains, which operated from the 13th to the 20th century, is also a UNESCO site worth exploring.
The area is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. The tips for the Cusancin spring mention a hike done in May, suggesting spring is a good time to visit when vegetation is lush. Summer offers warmer weather for longer explorations, while autumn provides beautiful foliage.


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