Sensitive Natural Areas (ENS)
The lawn at La Banie
LIRONCOURT
The marl-limestone grassland of La Banie is classified as a Sensitive Natural Area. It covers a crescent-shaped hillside with a breathtaking view of the meandering Saône River. As you follow the cow trail, you can learn all about the flora and fauna of this exceptional natural site, including wild orchids that mimic the shape and scent of bees and bumblebees. Every summer, the Conservatoire des Espaces Naturels de Lorraine (Lorraine Nature Conservation Agency) organizes tours of the site.
An educational trail through the pasture allows you to explore the site. See the information panel above the lawn located at the viewpoint painted by Jan Monchablon (image of the painting below), accessible via a short climb from the D15 departmental road.
The Préfonrupt Valley
MONTHUREUX-SUR-SAÔNE
The Saône receives water from a small stream shortly after its source: the Préfonrupt. Ecologically rich, the Préfonrupt stream and the wetlands that border it are home to many species typical of these environments: brook lamprey, sculpin, spotted salamander, yellow-bellied toad, etc.
In addition, the trail overlooking the site allows you to admire the sandstone outcrops, an old quarry, and the dense vegetation of this wooded valley.
The "ENS 88" signposts will guide you along this circular educational trail starting from the parking lot of the Monthureux-sur-Saône cemetery. Allow about an hour for the walk.
The Tignécourt Forest
TIGNECOURT
204 hectares of the Tignécourt forest are owned by the Vosges Department. This area, consisting of oak, beech, hornbeam, ash, and alder trees, is classified as a Sensitive Natural Area. Its management has been entrusted to the ONF (National Forestry Office) with the mission of implementing an exemplary heritage management model.
A large observatory facing the clearing welcomes walkers and school groups, allowing them to admire the wildlife without disturbing it.
A 1.8 km marked trail invites you to discover the biodiversity of this environment, starting from the Tignécourt cemetery.
The 4 Mares
ATTIGNY
A one-kilometer trail dotted with large-format photographs awaits you in the town of Attigny. Along the "Sentier des 4 Mares" trail, you may hear or encounter bullfrogs, as their natural habitat is all around you. The trail is accessible to all.
The marked trail is accessible from Attigny, Route de Droiteval. Follow this small road for about 2 km to reach the parking lot (drive slowly, as there are a few potholes on the road, especially towards the end).
