A Gallo-Roman fanum in Le Martinet, pink sandstone in important buildings, and trails by Étang des Forges give Offemont several distinct themes to explore. There is also a church with its own history, a former railway connection, and events held each year. When planning, it is worth distinguishing these themes by their role: heritage and landscape define the main focus, while events can help determine when to travel.
Landscape and watercourse
Offemont lies between the last foothills of the Vosges, Mont du Rudolphe, and the last foothills of the Jura, Colline de la Miotte. These two landforms provide a specific setting for the town. Another local feature is the Canal du Martinet: a diversion of the Savoureuse, it runs alongside the Arsot district and through the Martinet crossroads. At the lagoon on the north-western shore, it flows into Étang des Forges. In this way, named elevations and a specifically described watercourse offer distinct aspects of the landscape.
Church, fanum and local history
Offemont’s present-day church is dedicated to Saint Augustine; construction began in 1844. For several centuries, Offemont’s quarries supplied pink sandstone for numerous buildings, including Saint Christophe Cathedral and the church in Offemont. The town’s history can therefore also be explored through its building material, not just through individual construction dates.
An older period is represented by the Gallo-Roman temple structure, the fanum: it is located in Le Martinet in Offemont and was listed as a Monument historique by decree of 15 April 1987. The complete pottery workshop was also listed as a Monument historique, by decree of 2 November 1987. The year in which they were listed links two distinct heritage subjects: a Gallo-Roman structure and a complete workshop.
The local railway is part of the area’s transport history. From 1913 to 1948, trains ran between Belfort and Rougemont-le-Château through Offemont; the route followed what is now the cycle path. This adds traces of former rail traffic to the buildings and crafts.
Trails by the pond and in the municipal forest
Public use of the trail around Étang des Forges is greatest in the areas of La Cornée and Le Breuil. The long-distance GR 532 trail offers a different perspective, passing through Offemont’s municipal forest. The trails therefore have different points of reference: the pond on one hand, the forest on the other. If you include the GR 532 in your plans, check the current trail status before setting out.
Events and when to travel
The traditional community festival, “Fête de la Commune”, takes place every June at the MIEL. Offemont also holds a “Week-end Découvertes” every year, showcasing sports and cultural activities and offering the opportunity to attend open days at numerous associations. The annual “Week-end Découvertes” includes the “Photo-Passion” photography exhibition at the MIEL.
If you are travelling for one of these events, check the specific dates and programme in advance. The dates may determine when you travel; you can then tailor your search for accommodation in Offemont to your chosen travel dates.
Discover more destinations: Meroux, Grosmagny, Grosne, Danjoutin, Buc, Auxelles-Haut, Villars-Le-Sec, Novillard
For the wider travel overview: Territoire De Belfort.
