Unusual visit: the Chinese Tower of Epinal
Clément293, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Chinese Tower is a true architectural marvel in Épinal. Built in the heart of the castle grounds and nestled against the rocky outcrop, it has been listed as a Historic Monument since 1992.
This structure, as unexpected as it is fascinating, offers an exceptional panoramic view of Épinal and serves as a stair turret to access the 27-hectare park.
A must-see during your stay in the Vosges!
Discover the Chinese Tower, a pagoda made from Epinal clay.
How did a pagoda inspired by China end up in Épinal? This is the question you must ask yourself.
Its history dates back to the 19th century. The Chinese Tower is in fact one of the last vestiges of an old landscaped garden designed by a Vosges MP.
Christophe Doublat had the tower built in 1804 to adorn the staircase leading to his residence, located below the ruins of the castle he had recently acquired.
At that time, the Chinese style was particularly fashionable, with its red-painted wooden balconies, gilding, and rolled lead roofing with rolled rushes.
Inside, 80 spiral steps lead up the sandstone hill leading to the former fortress.
Restored several times, the tower is now an iconic landmark in Épinal.
Perched on the heights, the Chinese Tower offers breathtaking views of Épinal and the Vosges Mountains.
The site is particularly popular with families and visitors.
It is easily accessible on foot from the town center, around the corner of Rue d'Ambrail.
📍Access: Chinese Tower, 19 rue d’Ambrail, 88000 Épinal
⌚Opening Hours: The tower is open year-round from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or 8:00 p.m., depending on the season. Access to the tower itself may be restricted in the event of inclement weather or construction work.
💶 Rates: Free. Self-guided tour.
The Hôtel Spa & Restaurant La Fayette **** enjoys a prime location 10 minutes from the city center, facing the Épinal golf course.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy a moment of well-being at our Spa l'Hermione.
Our rooms and suites all feature air conditioning, a courtesy tray, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar.
Also discover our gourmet restaurant, open daily (except Sundays) from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. At lunchtime, you can choose from four menus to tantalize your taste buds.
Parking and charging stations are also available.
Book your stay in Épinal now.
This structure, as unexpected as it is fascinating, offers an exceptional panoramic view of Épinal and serves as a stair turret to access the 27-hectare park.
A must-see during your stay in the Vosges!
Discover the Chinese Tower, a pagoda made from Epinal clay.
The History of the Chinese Tower
How did a pagoda inspired by China end up in Épinal? This is the question you must ask yourself.
Its history dates back to the 19th century. The Chinese Tower is in fact one of the last vestiges of an old landscaped garden designed by a Vosges MP.
Christophe Doublat had the tower built in 1804 to adorn the staircase leading to his residence, located below the ruins of the castle he had recently acquired.
At that time, the Chinese style was particularly fashionable, with its red-painted wooden balconies, gilding, and rolled lead roofing with rolled rushes.
Inside, 80 spiral steps lead up the sandstone hill leading to the former fortress.
Restored several times, the tower is now an iconic landmark in Épinal.
A unique view of Épinal
Perched on the heights, the Chinese Tower offers breathtaking views of Épinal and the Vosges Mountains.
The site is particularly popular with families and visitors.
It is easily accessible on foot from the town center, around the corner of Rue d'Ambrail.
Practical Information
📍Access: Chinese Tower, 19 rue d’Ambrail, 88000 Épinal
⌚Opening Hours: The tower is open year-round from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or 8:00 p.m., depending on the season. Access to the tower itself may be restricted in the event of inclement weather or construction work.
💶 Rates: Free. Self-guided tour.
Stay at the Hotel La Fayette in Épinal
The Hôtel Spa & Restaurant La Fayette **** enjoys a prime location 10 minutes from the city center, facing the Épinal golf course.
Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, enjoy a moment of well-being at our Spa l'Hermione.
Our rooms and suites all feature air conditioning, a courtesy tray, a flat-screen TV, and a minibar.
Also discover our gourmet restaurant, open daily (except Sundays) from 12:00 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 7:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. At lunchtime, you can choose from four menus to tantalize your taste buds.
Parking and charging stations are also available.
Book your stay in Épinal now.
