An acidic peat bog with a floating bog, a striking granite rock and a pottery workshop each offer a very different experience. Rochesson thus provides a range of options for a stay focused on nature, outdoor activities or crafts.
Peat Bog, Rock and Forest Destinations
The Tourbière de Jemnaufaing is an acidic peat bog with several stages of development, including a floating bog. It is home to nationally significant dragonfly species, and the peat bog is designated under the European Habitats Directive. Visitors interested in landscapes and habitats will find a clear connection with nature here: the distinctive features include not only the type of peat bog itself but also its different stages of development and the dragonflies.
Another natural highlight is La Roche des Ducs, a classified natural area northeast of Rochesson. The rock features a remarkable 15-metre-wide eurite vein that runs vertically through the white granite to the summit. A marked trail leads to Roche des Ducs from the centre of Rochesson. This offers a chance to appreciate both the rock’s geological feature and its connection to a specific trail, without presenting them as the same kind of nature experience.
The Cascade de Battion can also be reached via a marked trail; the round trip takes 45 minutes on foot. A water reservoir and a diversion channel at the site recall the importance of hydropower. This adds a theme that can be seen directly along the watercourse to the natural setting. Check the latest access information before setting out if your plans depend on a particular trail connection.
Another forest option is the short Balade du beau sapin, which leads to a fir tree with remarkable dimensions: it is 40 metres tall, has a circumference of 4.10 metres and a volume of 26 cubic metres. The forest loop combines a short walk with a clearly identified natural destination. When choosing between the trails, the type of destination and the stated walking time are useful guides; the 45 minutes for the Cascade de Battion is the round-trip time.
Pottery and Workshop Visits
Poterie du Grand Duc has a workshop for traditional pottery in Rochesson, as well as an exhibition and sales area. Visitors who would like to make something themselves can take part in pottery workshops on Wednesdays by reservation. During school holidays, the workshop also offers visits with demonstrations of pottery on the wheel. The two types of visit differ in both their focus and their scheduling conditions: the workshop requires a reservation, while workshop visits take place during school holidays. Confirm dates and availability before travelling.
Outdoor Activities and Snow-Dependent Options
Mont Aventure Vosges offers outings on electric-assist mountain bikes through forest and open countryside, along paths and trails. Nordic walking is also available. This gives visitors a choice of two different activities: an electric-assist mountain bike outing or Nordic walking. These activities should not be confused with the snow-dependent options at Champ de neige des Truches.
When there is enough natural snow, Champ de neige des Truches offers the opportunity to learn alpine skiing; sledding is also available. Both activities depend on snow conditions, which can vary. If you plan to include these options in your stay, check the conditions for your dates in advance.
Plan Your Journey
Rochesson can be reached via the D23 from Vagney (6 km) or via the D486 and then the D23 from Gérardmer (10 km). Remiremont TGV station is 20 minutes from Rochesson; journey times may vary. Road conditions and driving times can also change. Check the latest conditions before travelling and take the relevant access route into account when planning your journey.
Discover more destinations: Dombasle-Devant-Darney, Saint-Léonard, Fraize, Saint-Maurice-Sur-Moselle, Ban-De-Sapt, Cleurie, Housseras, Le Menil.
View the regional travel guide: Vosges.
