Designated a Cité de Caractère de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
The town of Gray has been designated a Cité de Caractère de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté thanks to the quality of its architectural heritage. Its oldest monuments date back to the 14th century. As to the town hall, in typical Renaissance style, it makes quite an impression, with its varnished roof tiles shining brightly whatever the season. Make sure to explore the upper town as well as the quaysides.
Gray’s natural setting is dominated by the Saône, which has been well developed here for both boating and cycling tourism.
Map
Map
11 Ray-sur-Saône / Gray
Leaving behind the grounds of the Château de Ray-sur-Saône, La Voie Bleue cycle route descends rapidly to a stretch of the Saône Valley set in pretty surrounds marked by farmland, woods and hills. Enjoy contemplating the steady flow of boats negotiating the Savoyeux Tunnel. Keen on a swim? Head for the sandy beach at Autet, with lifeguards on duty. The river port at the town of Gray is striking, its extensive stone quays reflecting the intense trading activity that went on here down the centuries. Fortunes were made and beautiful houses built on both banks of the river, giving Gray a remarkable architectural heritage.
12 Gray / Pontailler-sur-Saône
You leave Gray and its history-packed quays via a towpath hugging the Saône. The way is then dotted with very appealing river ports. La Voie Bleue continues into the Burgundian département (or French county) of Côte-d’Or, passing fishermen’s cottages and slipways for launching boats, recalling how well used the river has been through time. The Château de Talmay and its impressive keep dominate their village. The final stretch of this stage is entirely along a towpath leading to Pontailler-sur-Saône, with its many shops and activities on offer.