The Maison de la Forêt… the House of Discovery!

History of the site 

With over 70% of the Vosges Foothills covered in woodland, the forest is a key feature of the landscape, the local economy and the region’s history.

Mentioned as far back as the 16th century, Norroy was the main sawmill of the former Abbey of Saint-Sauveur. Destroyed and rebuilt several times, it ceased operations in 1961.

After being used as a hunting lodge, the building was renovated to create the Maison de la Forêt.

Why a Maison de la Forêt?

The forest is inseparable from the Vosges foothills and its inhabitants. Since the Middle Ages, the people who have lived there have worked with wood. The Maison de la Forêt is a place that celebrates this cultural identity and promotes forestry traditions.

The project aims to revitalise the area by showcasing its assets through a welcoming space, and to foster cohesion among its stakeholders.

The site is designed for visitors, tourists, walkers and cyclists wishing to explore the magnificent forest and its riches. It forms part of a tourism development strategy open to all cultural expressions centred on the forest: art, literature, conferences… It also aims to raise public awareness of the local environment through an educational approach and innovative ways of discovery.

The Maison de la Forêt aims to promote the forest not only as a major feature of the landscape and a setting for leisure activities, but also as a subject of economic, ecological and scientific interest.

It defines itself as a platform for reflection, meetings and the creation of projects centred on the forest in the broadest sense.

Gateway to the Vosges Mountains

The Maison de la Forêt is situated in the far south-east of Meurthe-et-Moselle, at the junction of four departments—Meurthe-et-Moselle, Moselle, Vosges and Bas-Rhin—at the foot of the Donon massif, between the villages of Val-et-Châtillon and Saint-Sauveur.

Its position as the gateway to the sandstone Vosges mountains, at the crossroads of numerous hiking trails, already within the forest yet easily accessible by car, is ideal for this centre of hospitality, exchange, and tourism and cultural development centred on the theme of the forest.

The team

Jacqueline

Tourism Advisor

I am proud to be able to showcase the different facets of my region; a landscape shaped by wars and rich in a significant industrial and religious heritage. My pleasure lies in highlighting the area’s attractions and helping visitors discover the world of the forest: a green haven that has remained partly wild. I also enjoy sharing useful tips on places to visit, hikes and top spots.

Lori-Anouk

Activities Coordinator

Originally from Quebec and now settled in the region to take on a new challenge, I am excited to welcome you to the world of the Maison de la Forêt. Passionate about discovery and sharing, my greatest wish is to offer you an enriching and unforgettable experience on every visit. I look forward to revealing the treasures of our environment to you and embarking on this adventure with you!

Philippe Arnould

President of the Vezouze en Piémont Community of Communes

There’s nothing quite like the forest to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and the worries of everyday life!
And here, where the door opens onto numerous trails that will help you discover the mountains, you’re in for a treat! There’s something for everyone, young and old, Sunday strollers or seasoned hikers, but the one thing they all have in common is the beauty of the forest.
At the Maison de la Forêt, we welcome you with a smile for events, exhibitions, themed gatherings…
We look forward to seeing you!

“The consolation of forests: knowing that a cabin awaits you somewhere, where anything is possible…” Sylvain Tesson