Haute Marne

The Charles de Gaulle Memorial at Colombey-les-Deux-Églises

Colombey-les-Deux-Églises, the final home of General de Gaulle, founder of the Fifth Republic, is home to La Boisserie, where he lived, and the Charles de Gaulle Memorial. This historical interpretation center immerses you in the life and work of this major figure through documents, artifacts, films, and interactive exhibits that bring to life the key moments of the 20th century. Be sure to also visit the cemetery where General de Gaulle and his wife Yvonne are buried, and admire the Cross of Lorraine, an iconic symbol of the Resistance.

Castles and museums in Haute-Marne

The Haute-Marne region is known for its many castles and museums, which reflect its rich and diverse heritage. Discover the Château du Grand Jardin in Joinville, a Renaissance marvel; the Château du Pailly, a 16th-century gem; and the Château de Cirey, Voltaire’s former residence. The museums are just as impressive: the Chaumont Museum of Art and History features diverse collections, the Basketry Museum in Fayl-Billot explores this traditional craft, and the Métallurgic Park in Dommartin-le-Franc introduces you to metallurgy through exhibitions and works of art.

Haute-Marne: A Land of Nature and Adventure

Haute-Marne, a department rich in recreational and leisure activities, invites you to immerse yourself in nature. Whether you’re drawn to water, forests, mountains, or the countryside, you’ll be captivated by the diversity and beauty of this region’s unspoiled landscapes.

Check out the selection of must-see activities and sites in Haute-Marne below—perfect for recharging your batteries and having fun.

Lac du Der, a paradise for nature lovers

Lake Der, the largest artificial lake in Europe, is located on the border between the Haute-Marne and the Marne departments. Created in 1974 to regulate the flows of the Seine and the Marne and thus prevent flooding in Paris, it covers 48 km² and can hold up to 350 million m³ of water. Surrounding it are six ports, ten beaches, three half-timbered churches, and several villages.

This lake is the perfect place for water activities such as sailing, canoeing, water skiing, fishing, and swimming. It is also an exceptional site for observing flora and fauna, particularly migratory birds such as common cranes, which stop here in the spring and fall.

Take in these natural spectacles from the observation decks, trails, or bike paths that run along the lake. Be sure to visit the [Der Museum], which traces the history and ecological issues of this fascinating place.

Hiking in the National Forest Park

Inaugurated in 2019, the National Forest Park is France’s eleventh national park and the first dedicated to the protection of deciduous and lowland forests. Covering 242,148 hectares, including 56,614 hectares of protected core area, it covers part of the Côte-d’Or and Haute-Marne departments, including the Châtillon, Arc-en-Barrois, and Auberive forest massifs.

A hiker’s paradise, the park offers more than 1,000 km of marked trails accessible on foot, by bike, or on horseback. Visitors can discover exceptional biodiversity here, home to more than 5,000 animal and plant species—some of which are rare or endangered—as well as a rich cultural and historical heritage that includes the Château du Pailly, the Der Village Museum, the Fountain of the Wolves, and the Charles de Gaulle Memorial.

Water sports and leisure activities in spa resorts

Haute-Marne also boasts a wealth of thermal resources, with the resorts of Bourbonne-les-Bains and Contrexéville, famous for their medicinal mineral waters. Whether you're looking for a prescription cure or to enjoy the benefits of spa treatments (massages, bubble baths, wraps, showers), these resorts offer an unrivalled relaxation experience.

Wellness areas offer sauna, hammam, jacuzzi, swimming pool, gym and relaxation. Discover the resort's wide range of entertainment and leisure activities, including casino, cinema, golf, tennis, bowling and animal park.

Events and festivities: the beating heart of Haute-Marne

The Haute-Marne stands out for its festive spirit, offering a wide variety of events and celebrations to suit all ages and tastes. Whether you’re a music lover, culture enthusiast, foodie, or hunting enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in this warm and vibrant department.

Discover a selection of must-see events and festivities in Haute-Marne that promise entertainment and wonder.

Music festivals and cultural events

As a music lover, the Haute-Marne welcomes you with its renowned festivals, celebrating a variety of musical genres, from rock and jazz to French chanson and classical music. The Le Chien à Plumes festival, for example, takes place in early August near the Villegusien lake, offering a rich program with artists from the national and international scene. The Jazz Ô Der festival, meanwhile, takes place at the end of March in Montier-en-Der, bringing together famous jazz musicians.

Haute-Marne also showcases its rich cultural and historical heritage through events such as Heritage Days, which offer access to monuments and historic sites, and Christmas shows, which immerse visitors in a magical atmosphere with concerts, storytelling, and Christmas markets.

The Chaumont craft market and local flea markets

The department showcases its artisanal expertise at the Chaumont Craft Market, an annual event held in early December where artisans display their unique creations. In addition, the regular flea markets and yard sales held in various towns offer the perfect opportunity to hunt for bargains and discover rare and original items.

The hunting season and local culinary traditions

Haute-Marne, with its centuries-old hunting tradition, offers a bountiful hunting season from September 17, 2023, to February 29, 2024, during which local game takes center stage. These moments also provide an opportunity to savor culinary specialties made with game. The region’s cuisine, famous for its local products such as Langres cheese and Chaumont ham, promises authentic culinary experiences at local restaurants and markets.

Conclusion

Haute-Marne, with its richness and diversity, promises an experience full of discoveries, recreation, relaxation, and fun. No matter what your interests—whether it’s culture, history, nature, adventure, fine dining, or even partying—this multifaceted department is sure to meet your expectations.

This region will charm you with its authenticity, friendliness and countless surprises. Don't delay in discovering Haute-Marne, a department ready to offer you unforgettable moments.

FAQ

What is the main town in Haute-Marne?

Chaumont is the main town in Haute-Marne and serves as the department's prefecture. Saint-Dizier is the most populous city, with around 25,000 inhabitants.

Where is it good to live in Haute-Marne?

Living in Haute-Marne has many advantages. The department enjoys a prime location between Paris, Strasbourg, and Lyon, while offering very attractive real estate prices.

Haute-Marne also boasts an exceptional natural and cultural heritage, with forests, lakes, castles, churches and charming villages. Choose from small towns like Chaumont and Saint-Dizier, or quiet villages like Joinville, Bourmont, Châteauvillain, Montsaugeon or Vignory.

Where to go walking in Haute-Marne?

Haute-Marne offers a wide range of walking options to suit all tastes. Not to be missed:

– The Charles de Gaulle Memorial in Colombey-les-Deux-Églises, a historic site dedicated to the life and work of this distinguished statesman. There you’ll find the Cross of Lorraine, a symbol of the Resistance, as well as La Boisserie, the general’s family home, and his final resting place.

– The Chaumont Viaduct, a 19th-century structure, is a remarkable architectural sight with its 50 arches, stretching 600 meters in length and 52 meters in height. It offers a breathtaking view of Chaumont and its surroundings.

What assets does Haute-Marne have to offer?

The Haute-Marne stands out for its natural wealth, with its forests, lakes, springs, and rivers, earning it the nickname «France’s water tower.» Its industrial heritage is also a major asset, including forges, foundries, and innovative companies in the automotive, aerospace, and medical prosthetics sectors.