Attractions and Places To See around Vaucouleurs - Top 20

Vaucouleurs is rich in sites connected to Joan of Arc. You can explore the Porte de France of Vaucouleurs, which marks her departure from the Château de Vaucouleurs in 1429. The town of Vaucouleurs itself features an equestrian statue of Joan of Arc in front of the Hôtel de Ville, which also houses a museum dedicated to her. The Chapelle Castrale is another significant site where Joan of Arc reportedly spent time.

Yes, the Musée Jeanne d'Arc (Joan of Arc Museum) is located within the Hôtel de Ville in Vaucouleurs. It offers a comprehensive look at Joan of Arc's story through unique objects, artworks, and narratives, including sculptures and stained-glass cartoons.

The Porte de France of Vaucouleurs is a medieval gate that holds immense historical importance. It is the very gate through which Joan of Arc departed from the Château de Vaucouleurs in 1429 on her journey to meet the Dauphin Charles. Visitors can admire its architecture, a chapel, a statue of Joan of Arc, and an old lime tree associated with a legend about her horse.

Beyond the Joan of Arc sites, Vaucouleurs offers other historical gems. You can visit Saint Martin's Church, known for its pretty design. The Église Paroissiale Saint-Laurent, built between 1782 and 1785, features a sublime ceiling with frescoes and a beautiful 1717 pulpit, recognized as a historical monument. North of Vaucouleurs, the 14th-century Château de Gombervaux is also a classified historical monument.

Vaucouleurs is nestled in the scenic Meuse River valley, known as 'Val des Couleurs,' characterized by numerous streams and beautiful forests. The Communal Forest offers a vast 'green lung' for relaxation and hiking. Additionally, the town is situated at the gates of the Regional Natural Park of Lorraine, providing a blend of history and nature for exploration.

Yes, the area around Vaucouleurs offers various hiking opportunities. You can find routes like 'In the country of Jeanne d'Arc — loop from Vaucouleurs' (difficult, 28 km) or 'Statue of Joan of Arc – Magnificent 600 year old lime tree loop from Vaucouleurs' (moderate, 10 km). For more options, explore the Hiking around Vaucouleurs guide.

Absolutely! Vaucouleurs is a great starting point for cycling. You can find road cycling routes such as 'Fountain of Chalaines – Vaucouleurs loop from Chalaines' (moderate, 49 km). For mountain biking, consider routes like 'Vaucouleurs – Fountain of Chalaines loop from Maxey-sur-Vaise' (moderate, 31 km). Check the Road Cycling Routes around Vaucouleurs guide and the MTB Trails around Vaucouleurs guide for more detailed routes.

Vaucouleurs is particularly vibrant around May 13th when it hosts an annual medieval festival to honor Joan of Arc, offering a unique cultural experience. Generally, spring and summer are ideal for exploring the natural landscapes and historical sites, with pleasant weather for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

Yes, families can enjoy exploring the historical town of Vaucouleurs, including the Joan of Arc Museum. The Fountain of Chalaines is also noted as a family-friendly spot. The Communal Forest provides a great natural setting for family walks and relaxation.

The Val de Passey Railway refers to a trail that was once a railway line. It is now a path, part of the route to Santiago de Compostela, offering a unique historical and natural walking experience, though the railway itself no longer exists.

The Way of St. James pilgrimage routes pass through the area, notably at the Fountain of Chalaines. This specific point is where the routes diverge towards Vezelay and Le Puy, making it a significant landmark for pilgrims.

Visitors often appreciate the rich history of Vaucouleurs, particularly its strong connection to Joan of Arc. The charming village atmosphere, the beautiful town hall, and the scenic Meuse River valley are frequently highlighted. The blend of cultural landmarks and natural landscapes provides diverse experiences for visitors.