Etang des Forges
For those seeking tranquillity and unspoilt nature, the Etang des Forges is definitely for you ! It is the ideal place to switch off, relax and unwind in a flooded forest of alder and willow, where the only sounds are the rustling of the trees and the lapping of the water.
Located just a few minutes from the centre of Belfort, at the foot of the Tour de la Miotte, the ‘clog-shaped’ Etang des Forges is 1,160m long 360m wide and covers 34 hectares. This wonderful green space is very popular with locals who go there to walk, run and cycle in the company of ducks and heron.
The history of the lake goes back to the Middle Ages when its role was to provide fish which was eaten a lot at the time. Later its water was used to power the furnaces from which it takes its name. In the 1830s the lake increased its activity by turning towards sport and leisure activities.
Today the peaceful lakeside surroundings are ideal for walking and cycling as there are hardly any gradients.
The « Sentier de la Roselière » is a discovery trail around the lake over footbridges, wooded zones, water meadows and reed beds. Along the way information boards describe the flora, fauna, history, geology and activities connected with the lake, such as the heyday of metal industry. Apart from being a beautiful place, the Etang des Forges is a conservation area and also a bird observatory with an observation tower so nature lovers can watch the many water birds which nest by the lake, including coots, heron and egrets. In total almost 150 species can be seen during the year. Don’t forget your binoculars !
In the snow, in a storm or bathed in sunlight, the scenery reflected in the waters of the Etang des Forges is always a magnificent sight.
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in Petitefontaine - Territoire de Belfort