You can visit Senones Abbey independently or with a guide throughout the year. Other attractions include a market with around 20 producers, museums and trails for a range of activities. This lets you make culture, local products and time outdoors the focus of your trip.
Senones Abbey and history
Saint Gondelbert had an abbey built in Senones in 640. The convent buildings have largely retained their 18th-century appearance. During your visit, you can explore the large courtyards, cloister and gardens. The Parc de l’Abbaye, with its particularly beautiful trees, is also located within the abbey grounds.
The history of the Principality of Salm is also closely connected with Senones: in 1751, the town became its capital. The princes of Salm’s second castle was built in 1773 and 1778. Since 19 May 1994, its façades and roofs, as well as the staircase with its wrought-iron railing, have been listed as historic monuments.
A walk through the historic centre reveals a range of architectural influences: Italian influences can be seen in the monks’ buildings, while those of the princes of Salm-Salm show French or Germanic influences. The manufactories add eclectic and Art Nouveau influences. This mix adds further dimensions to the town’s history alongside the abbey and castle.
Market and museums
The Marché Paysan de Senones takes place at the Dépôt from April to December, on the first Sunday of each month. Around 20 producers take part. Visitors can sample aged cheeses, local meat and charcuterie, seasonal vegetables, craft-brewed beers, jams, honey and homemade pastries. If you plan to visit the market, check the specific date before travelling: it operates seasonally.
The Musée de la Batterie displays more than 150 drum kits dating from 1900 to the present day across 1,000 m², including many rare and famous models. The exhibits also include an introduction to the instrument and a treasure hunt. The Musée du Vélosolex traces the history of the VéloSolex and displays different versions of this bicycle. Check opening arrangements before your visit, and also check whether the activities mentioned are available at the Musée de la Batterie.
Trails and scenery
The marked Les Roches Margos circular trail starts in Senones, is easy to walk and is freely accessible year-round. It is 5.6 km long, with an elevation gain of 140 metres. The 16 km Voie verte Le Chemin des Abbayes, by contrast, is flat and can be used on foot, by bicycle or on inline skates. In Senones, it passes renovated sections of the cloister and library. The two routes therefore differ in both length and elevation profile, as well as in the specified ways of getting around.
For a cycling loop, route B7 L’Ormont starts at the Senones tourist office. It passes through the Rabodeau valley and along the surrounding wooded and hilly roads before returning to Senones. The Boucle du Coquin starts in Senones at Roche Mère-Henry and goes as far as Loge des Gardes; no route length or difficulty is specified here.
Another scenic feature is the Le Coquin section: a rock made of Tertiary sedimentary rock, specifically sandstone, offers a viewpoint there. During the First World War, the Germans used the rock strategically. Check trail conditions before setting out on a hike.
Discover more destinations: Sainte-Marguerite, Deycimont, Fontenoy-Le-Château, Neufchâteau, La Bresse, Rambervillers, Fays, Anould.
For the main travel guide: Vosges.
