Attractions and Places To See around Mazerolles-Le-Salin - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Mazerolles-Le-Salin include a blend of local historical sites and access to significant regional attractions within the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. The area maintains a rural character, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. Its proximity to Besançon provides access to UNESCO World Heritage sites and other cultural landmarks. The region features a mix of natural features, historical monuments, and well-developed cycling routes.
Best attractions and places to see around Mazerolles-Le-Salin
- The most popular attractions is Thoraise Tunnel, a historical site that saves 4 km of navigation on the Doubs river. This unique canal tunnel allows passage by small boat or on foot via a special footbridge.
- Another must-see spot is The Holed Rock, a natural monument. Visitors can explore this natural rock arch, which offers views and an echo within its vault, easily accessible on a signposted path.
- Visitors also love EuroVelo 6: Doubs and Rhône-Rhine Canal from Beure to Ranchot, a cycle way. This well-maintained path offers scenic landscapes along the canal, suitable for cycling without car traffic.
- Mazerolles-Le-Salin is known for its historical sites, natural features, and extensive cycling routes. The area offers a variety of attractions to explore, from ancient fortifications to river paths and unique geological formations.
- The attractions around Mazerolles-Le-Salin are appreciated by the komoot community. With more than 350 upvotes and over 100 photos, these highlights offer diverse experiences for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Thoraise Tunnel
Highlight • Historical Site
On the upstream side, pay attention to the curtain of water covering the entrance to the tunnel.
On the downstream side, at the exit you will find a lock which will allow you to join the main Rhine-Rhône canal.
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EuroVelo 6: Doubs and Rhône-Rhine Canal from Beure to Ranchot
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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Historic Center of Marnay
Highlight • Historical Site
Very prosperous in the Middle Ages, due to its trade and its artisans. There has been a cloth hall there since the 14th century, after Jeanne de Bourgogne, countess of Franche-Comté and queen of King Philippe V the Long of France, brought weavers from Paris there.
From June 14, 1354 and until the Revolution, the bourgeoisie of Marnay had a charter of emancipation which ensured them security and abundance - "anyone who has a house and keeps fire in the village will be bourgeois". This charter allowed residents to administer the city themselves and thus build ramparts and set up the individual gardens that can still be found there today.
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Fort de Planoise
Highlight • Viewpoint
The fort itself is a set of fortifications organized on the foothills of the hill with a central building at the top. By walking the paths of the hill, you will be able to discover many vestiges.
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The Holed Rock
Highlight • Natural Monument
It also has the advantage and the comfort of being placed on the path and therefore avoids you having to go blind, in the middle of the woods, in an environment bordered by cliffs.
Come and test your voice and the echo of the vault. With its height of over 4m and reach of almost 10m, you should have a bit of responsiveness.
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Tips from the Community
A ship tunnel (1810) that can be walked through from the side as a shortcut for the Le Doubs river canal. On the other side of the canal there is a lock about 3-4 m high. There is a water curtain at both portals and the interior is beautifully and decoratively lit. Worth seeing.
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It is also possible to walk through the tunnel.
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Characterful Comtoise town which was part of the Holy Roman Empire until the treaty of 1678. Very prosperous in the Middle Ages, due to its trade and its artisans. There has been a cloth hall there since the 14th century, after Jeanne de Bourgogne, countess of Franche-Comté and queen of King Philippe V the Long of France, brought weavers from Paris there. From June 14, 1354 and until the Revolution, the bourgeoisie of Marnay had a charter of emancipation which ensured them security and abundance - "anyone who has a house and keeps fire in the village will be bourgeois". This charter allowed residents to administer the city themselves and thus build ramparts and set up the individual gardens that can still be found there today.
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You can go through on foot on a special footbridge or go through with the (house) - boat. The additional lighting is attached to the tunnel ceiling in the form of a chain of running lights. The water curtain at the end of the tunnel is turned off just before passing.
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Beautiful scenery and nice bike path.
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Great bike path and beautiful scenery on the canal and Doubs.
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Unfortunately, you cannot drive through this channel tunnel. It's over the hill for that.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in and around Mazerolles-Le-Salin?
Mazerolles-Le-Salin and its surroundings offer a rich historical tapestry. Within the village, you can see the impressive 17th-century Château de Mazerolles and the Église Saint-Étienne. A significant local landmark is the Monument FFI, commemorating resistance fighters. Further afield, don't miss the unique Thoraise Tunnel, a historical canal breakthrough. The Historic Center of Marnay, a characterful Comtoise town, also offers insights into medieval history. For grander historical experiences, the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Besançon Citadel, Grande Saline in Salins-les-Bains, and Saline Royale in Arc-et-Senans are easily accessible.
Are there any natural attractions or viewpoints near Mazerolles-Le-Salin?
Yes, the region boasts several natural features and scenic viewpoints. A must-see is The Holed Rock, a natural rock arch where you can test the echo within its vault. For panoramic views, visit Fort de Planoise, which offers beautiful vistas of Besançon and Avanne-Aveney. The Lussac Pond is another notable natural spot, featuring prehistoric caves and remnants of an old medieval drawbridge, perfect for a picnic.
What cycling routes are available around Mazerolles-Le-Salin?
The area is excellent for cycling, notably featuring sections of the EuroVelo 6. You can enjoy the well-maintained EuroVelo 6: Doubs and Rhône-Rhine Canal from Beure to Ranchot, which offers scenic landscapes without car traffic. For more options, explore the dedicated guides for cycling: Gravel biking around Mazerolles-Le-Salin and Road Cycling Routes around Mazerolles-Le-Salin.
Are there hiking opportunities near Mazerolles-Le-Salin?
Absolutely! The rural setting of Mazerolles-Le-Salin provides numerous hiking trails. You can find diverse scenery on routes like 'Le tour du mont de Pouilley-les-Vignes' with its botanical path, or 'Boucle de la plaine de Thoraise' along the Doubs river. The 'Sentier de crête du donjon de Montferrand' offers panoramic views of the Doubs valley. For a comprehensive list of trails, check out the Hiking around Mazerolles-Le-Salin guide.
What are some family-friendly attractions in the Mazerolles-Le-Salin area?
Families will find several engaging options. The EuroVelo 6: Doubs and Rhône-Rhine Canal is a well-developed, car-free path perfect for family bike rides. The Historic Center of Marnay is also considered family-friendly, offering a glimpse into history. For a broader experience, the Besançon Citadel, a short drive away, features museums and a zoo that children often enjoy. Lussac Pond also provides picnic facilities, ideal for a family outing.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Mazerolles-Le-Salin?
Visitors frequently praise the unique experiences offered. For instance, the Thoraise Tunnel is often described as 'really unique' for its canal passage by boat or foot. The EuroVelo 6 is highly recommended for its 'great landscape' and 'well-maintained bike path' with no car traffic. The Holed Rock delights those who love 'unobstructed views, exploration and rock formations'.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites accessible from Mazerolles-Le-Salin?
Yes, Mazerolles-Le-Salin's location within the Grand Besançon Métropole provides easy access to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. These include the impressive Besançon Citadel, the Grande Saline in Salins-les-Bains, and the elegant Saline Royale in Arc-et-Senans. The iconic Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Haut (Ronchamp Chapel) by Le Corbusier is also within reach.
What is the best time of year to visit Mazerolles-Le-Salin for outdoor activities?
The region's rural character and numerous trails make spring, summer, and early autumn ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling. The weather is generally pleasant for exploring the natural features and historical sites. An annual ceremony is held at the Monument FFI every September, which might be of interest for those visiting in autumn.
Can I find any unique architectural or cultural landmarks in the area?
Beyond the historical sites, you can discover unique architectural and cultural landmarks. The village itself features La Caborde Décorative, a decorative version of a traditional dry stone hut. The restored lavoir (wash house) in the village square also reflects local heritage. Further afield, the Saline Royale in Arc-et-Senans is an outstanding example of visionary 18th-century architecture and industrial planning.
Where can I find information about local events or commemorations?
Mazerolles-Le-Salin holds an annual ceremony every September at the Monument FFI, commemorating the French Forces of the Interior who were executed in the woods in 1944. For broader local events, it's advisable to check the official tourism resources for the Grand Besançon Métropole, as Mazerolles-Le-Salin is part of this larger community.
Are there any easy walking trails suitable for all abilities near Mazerolles-Le-Salin?
While specific accessibility details for all trails are not provided, the region offers various walking routes. For easier options, you might consider sections of the EuroVelo 6, which is a well-maintained cycle path that can also be enjoyed on foot. Additionally, some routes in the Hiking around Mazerolles-Le-Salin guide, such as 'Bois de Servole loop from Dannemarie-sur-Crète' or 'Bois de Servole loop from Pouilley-Français', are rated as 'easy' and could be suitable for a relaxed stroll.
Most popular routes around Mazerolles-Le-Salin
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