Since 2009, with the support of the Vosges County Council, 73 kilometres of the old towpath along the Canal des Vosges have been converted into a multi-use trail which is in the middle of nature. It is accessible all year round to cyclists, roller-bladers and walkers. Moreover, it is perfect for children with its very low altitude and smooth surfaces.
This trail route crosses the Vosges county from north to south: from Socourt to Fontenoy-le-Château. You can discover many interesting and memorable places, such as the medieval fortress in Châtel-sur-Moselle, the windmill in Charmes, the old printing workshop – the Imagerie in Épinal or the Rotonde in Thaon-les-Vosges.
Many sites can be discovered along this route. Among them is the medieval fortress in Châtel-sur-Moselle dating back to the 11th century. It used to be one of the largest medieval defensive works in Europe. There is also the museum - Ecomusée du Battant in Charmes which building dates back to the 16th century and was initially used as a fuller (a process in fabric making). The printing workshop - Imagerie in Épinal is also on this route. It has given the town a certain reputation since the late 18th century. The Rotonde in Thaon les Vosges is a remnant of the golden age of the textile industry in the Vosges during the 20th century. The charming village of Fontenoy-le-Château ends the trail - La Voie Verte in the Vosges. It is a little gem of original heritage and not well known. It is really worth a few pedal strokes.
