A fortified commandery, two chapels with distinct historical associations, and a mountain biking route leading to La Villedieu-En-Fontenette give the village a clear cultural heritage focus. At the same time, the small village is set among forests and private ponds. If you are looking for accommodation, you can plan your stay around its architectural and religious history and add nearby destinations depending on your interests.

Cultural heritage and religious history

The commandery is described as a fortified house dating from the 13th century. Its surviving buildings form an imposing quadrangle.

The Moulin Lajus offers a different focus: it is designated as industrial heritage.

The Chapelle Barrey dates from 1849 and can be seen on the road to Neurey. The Chapelle Notre-Dame des Douleurs has a different historical association: it was built and decorated with donations from the faithful of the Ville-Dieu and grateful visitors. The commandery dates from the 13th century, while the Chapelle Barrey dates from 1849—a gap of several centuries.

The religious connection extends beyond the chapels. La Villedieu-En-Fontenette was once a frequently visited pilgrimage site where relics of Saint Germanus of Auxerre were venerated. This is distinct from the patronal feast of the church of La Villedieu-En-Fontenette, which commemorates the Beheading of John the Baptist.

Rural character and getting your bearings

La Villedieu-En-Fontenette is a small village surrounded by forests and private ponds. If the landscape is also a factor in choosing your stay, forests and private ponds are part of the village’s described character; the ponds are private.

Two washhouses are located on Rue de la Bonne Eau and Rue de la Grande Eau. There is a picnic area at the edge of the D10. These smaller local features complement the historic buildings with practical landmarks. Check on site whether the picnic area is available.

Nearby destinations and activities

A leisure area for swimming and fishing is nearby, 6 km away. It is intended for these activities; check what is currently available before visiting.

A mountain biking route also leads to La Villedieu-En-Fontenette via the D6 and local roads. A route description updated in 2021 gives the route “À la découverte des chapelles autour de Breurey” a length of 52.29 km. The Chapelle Notre-Dame des Douleurs is on this route at kilometre 9.60. The full route is 52.29 km long; the chapel is located along it at kilometre 9.60. Check route conditions before cycling.

Discover more destinations: Conflandey, Delain, Belfahy, Ronchamp, Gy, Fresne-Saint-Mamès, Cirey, Étuz.

For the regional travel overview: Haute-Saône.