Langres: Holiday Apartments and Houses

The fortifications of the historic center of Langres extend for about 3.8 kilometers and are protected as historic monuments. Anyone choosing Langres as a destination may wish to rent a holiday apartment for their stay.

History and Culture

The approximately 3.5-kilometer-long chemin de ronde around Langres is freely accessible at no charge. It encircles the old town and, in addition to views of the fortifications, offers views toward the Vosges and Jura mountains. Along the way, it passes seven gates and twelve towers, illustrating the development of the fortifications during the Hundred Years’ War.

The Citadelle de Langres in the south of the city is one of the last citadels built in France. It was constructed in the mid-19th century and was an independent military town capable of accommodating 3,000 soldiers. The Tour du Petit-Sault is an artillery tower built between 1517 and 1521 to supplement the city fortifications. Its U-shaped layout, reinforced by the extended flanks, enhanced control at the foot of the fortifications.

The Tour de Navarre is a monumental artillery tower in Langres with a diameter of 28 meters and a height of 20 meters. It has approximately 20 embrasures on four levels. The Cathédrale Saint-Mammes and the remains of its cloister were placed under protection as historic monuments by listing in 1862. Its southern tower can be reached via a spiral staircase with 227 steps and offers views of the cathedral roof, the old town, the suburbs, and Lac de la Liez.

The Maison des Lumières Denis Diderot is the only museum space in France dedicated to the philosopher and encyclopedist Denis Diderot. An original copy of the Encyclopédie is displayed there, along with objects connected with the philosopher’s life and work. The Musée d’Art et d’Histoire in Langres presents archaeological collections from prehistory through the Gallo-Roman period. Its modern building incorporates the Romanesque Chapelle Saint-Didier, which houses medieval statues of bishops and saints.

L’Estival des Hallebardiers is an annual street theater tradition in Langres that has existed for 40 years.

Nature

In the immediate vicinity of Langres are the shores of Lac de la Liez at the foot of the Langres fortifications, linking the lake landscape with the fortified city. A 16-kilometer circular trail runs around the immediate vicinity of Lac de la Liez and can be used on foot or by bicycle.

Cuisine

Langres cheese has Protected Designation of Origin status (AOP) and is made using a traditional artisanal method tied to a clearly defined geographical area. During maturation, it is not turned, which causes it to develop a characteristic depression known as a “Fontaine.”

The Confrérie des Tastes-Fromages de Langres and the Syndicat Interprofessionnel du Fromage de Langres work to preserve and promote Langres cheese, which is regarded as a culinary ambassador for the city.

Wellness

Aqualangres includes a balneotherapy area with two saunas, a hammam, and a whirlpool.

Other places: Bannes, Saint-Michel, Bailly-aux-Forges, Montsaugeon, Longeau-Percey, Jagee, Rennepont, Villiers-Sur-Suize

To the higher-level travel overview: Haute-Marne.