Faymont waterfall: the most relaxing

Located in Faymont, a 6-minute drive from Val d'Ajol town centreThe Faymont waterfall is hidden among the trees. Small but charming, its clear water flows slowly. Depending on the weather and recent rainfall, however, the flow can be stronger.

 

His history

The Faymont waterfall originates from the Dréhart stream, located upstream. It consists of several successive falls spread over a drop of approximately twenty meters. The last one, 2,50 meters high, plunges into an artificial basin. This basin once served as a reservoir for the sawmill in the Faymont valley, which harnessed hydraulic power to operate its machinery.

How to get to the Faymont waterfall?

To admire the Faymont waterfall, you have two options:

• The first, and simplest, option is to park a few meters from the waterfall, as a small parking area has been created below it. This solution is ideal for people with mobility difficulties.
• The second, the more athletic option, involves borrowing a marked hiking trail of 8,7 kmThis loop hike starts at the Faymont waterfall and follows forest paths in the hills above Val d'Ajol. The hike to the Faymont waterfall is a must-do in the Vosges Secrètes region..

What is there to visit around the Faymont waterfall?

A few minutes from the waterfall, the factory tour the Buyer It's well worth a visit! This Vosges-based company is renowned for its industrial expertise, passed down through generations since 1830. Guided tours are offered from April to September, by reservation only through the tourist office. It's a chance to discover the inner workings of the manufacturing process, understand the techniques, the machinery, and the local history that goes with it.

Right next door, don't miss the de Buyer factory outlet. Even without intending to buy anything, it's a pleasant visit that nicely complements the nature walk with a local and artisanal touch.

 

The Géhard waterfall: the most secluded

Located on the border between the municipalities of Girmont-Val-d'Ajol and Val-d'AjolThe Géhard waterfall is one of those hidden gems that you often discover by chance. At an altitude of 518 meters, the Géhard stream, a left-bank tributary of the Combeauté, carves its way between the rocks before forming a waterfall in the heart of the forest.

His history

The waterfall consists of five successive cascades, carved into the rock over time. The water has sculpted numerous formations. giant cauldronsThese circular cavities are where it swirls and bubbles after the rains. Local tradition says that Napoleon III loved to come and admire this natural spectacle.

A little further down, you'll discover an ancient vaulted bridge, also attributed to the time of the Emperor. The path that runs alongside the stream even bears the evocative name of " Emperor's Road ».

The Géhard waterfall has also inspired artists. It features in a painting by the artist Louis Français, now exhibited at the Charles-de-Bruyères museum in Remiremont.

How to access the Géhard waterfall?

Access is easily possible on foot from Val-d'Ajol or Girmont-Val-d'Ajol. Two marked trails (red circle and green circle markers) lead to the waterfall in just a few minutes' walk. The walk is pleasant and shaded, following the stream, and is accessible to most visitors.

There are also some parking spaces along the road, in the immediate vicinity of the waterfall and the picnic table set up in the forest.

Even today, the Géhard waterfall is a major local tourist attraction. It is part of the Chalots Route Tourist Circuit, which allows you to discover these old agricultural buildings typical of Val-d'Ajol.

What is there to visit around the Géhard waterfall?

After visiting the waterfall, several other visits allow you to further explore the area. Girmontoise Farm is a good first step. This farm showcases local Vosges products, with a shop well-stocked with terrines, stews, beef and pork sausages, as well as dried meats.

A few minutes away, theBallandier blueberry farm It offers an immersion into the culture of the blueberry, a cousin of the wild blueberry, emblematic of the Vosges. In season, you can buy these small blue berries there as well as processed products (blueberry syrup, jam, etc.).

A fig in the pear tree It offers a very different, but equally memorable, experience. Open to visitors since 2022, this unique contemporary garden in the Grand Est region invites you to discover a sensitive and creative approach to landscape. At the heart of the garden, an edible forest flourishes at an altitude of 640 meters. More than 3,000 plants from near and far coexist there, blending local Vosges species with unexpected flora.

 

The Miraumont waterfall: the most surprising

Located near the Sainte-Claire chapel, the Miraumont waterfall is a popular spot for its peaceful setting and its easy access from Saint-Étienne-lès-Remiremont. 

 

His history

The waterfall is located on the Seux stream, a tributary of the Moselle, whose waters originate on the Fossard massifThe path runs alongside the waterfall and gradually leads to the place called Saint-Romary, at an altitude of 490 meters.

A small reinforced concrete bridge, built in 1969 by the Scouts of France group, allows you to continue the hike towards Saint-Mont, adding a more sporting dimension for those who wish to extend the outing.

How to get to the Miraumont waterfall?

Access is also possible by car. Simply follow the signs for the Saint-Romary inn, park in the car park on the right side of the road, opposite the inn entrance, and then follow the Club Vosgien trail markers. The waterfall is also part of the hike to the Miraumont waterfall via the Piotte, a 4,6 km route, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes long, marked with a green ring. 

What is there to visit around the Miraumont waterfall?

A short walk from the waterfall, the Holy Mountain This is a must-see. A significant historical and spiritual site in the Vosges Mountains, this summit shelters the remains of an ancient monastery and offers beautiful views over the Moselle Valley and Remiremont. The site is easily explored on foot, via marked trails. On the way back down towards Saint-Étienne-lès-Remiremont, the Fairy Bridge constitutes another beautiful stop. Located 1,4 km from the Miraumont waterfall, this ancient bridge, surrounded by local legends, crosses the Moselle and is part of a walk on the heights of the city.

 

From Faymont to Miraumont, via Géhard, each waterfall offers a different atmosphere. These sites are often discovered along accessible hikes, on marked trails that allow you to fully appreciate the scenery.

Around these waterfalls, local partners and stakeholders enrich the experience. Visits to farms or agricultural operations, contemporary gardens, or passionate producers bring a more human dimension to this exploration of the region.

These walks make up full days, alternating between hiking, sightseeing, and gourmet breaks. A wonderful way to discover the Vosges mountains from a different perspective.