Les Hautes-Mynes du Thillot are former copper mines worked by the Dukes of Lorraine from the 16th to the 18th century, now open to visitors. Wearing a helmet and headlamp, you descend into hand-cut extraction galleries, led by a guide who brings to life the miners’ daily routine and the strategic value of copper at the time. The site sits in Le Thillot, about a 40-minute drive from La Bresse, and combines a museum, an underground visit and an escape game.
A dive into the Vosges mining story
In the 16th century, copper was a strategic resource: it was used to cast cannons and strike coins. The Dukes of Lorraine brought in skilled miners to work the Le Thillot seam, which became one of the region’s major mining sites. For nearly two centuries, galleries were carved into the mountain by oil-lamp light, using chisels and gunpowder.
The visit takes place on the original archaeological site. You walk part of the route outdoors, where the remains of the ore-processing workshops are still visible, then enter the Rouge-Montagne mine to discover the underground galleries much as the miners left them.
The underground visit: what to expect
Equipment. Helmet and lighting are provided on site. Wear closed walking shoes and bring a jacket: the galleries stay at 9°C all year round, summer and winter alike.
The route. The full experience combines the museum and the underground galleries and lasts about 2h15. The guide explains extraction techniques, working conditions and how the operation was run.
Who it’s for. The Rouge-Montagne mine is open from age 5, provided children are at least one metre tall. The site is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs, and dogs are not allowed inside the mine.
Museum and escape game
The Maison des Hautes-Mynes houses a museum tracing the history of copper mining in the valley. Depending on the season, the site also runs original events: an escape game for puzzle fans, themed evening visits (tales and legends of the mine, in the footsteps of the old miners) and bat-discovery outings. The programme changes through the year, so check the official site for dates.
Practical information
- Address: Maison des Hautes-Mynes, 47 rue de la Gare, 88160 Le Thillot
- Getting there from La Bresse: about 40 minutes via the Col de Bramont or through Cornimont and Le Thillot
- Season: open from 1 April to 30 September, daily 10am to 7pm (last mine departure 4:30pm, 5pm in July-August)
- Prices: €11 adult, €8.50 child (5-17), reduced rate €9.50
- Booking: recommended, on +33 3 29 25 03 33 or at hautesmynes.com
Prices, opening hours and event programmes change over time: check the latest details on the official site before your visit.
Combine it during your stay
Les Hautes-Mynes pair well with a wider tour of the valley: see our guide to Le Thillot, gateway to the High Vosges to round out the day. To plan the rest of your trip, browse our ideas for what to do in La Bresse and our pick of rainy-day activities, where the mine fits right in.
For a peaceful base close to all these sights, discover our chalets to rent in La Bresse.
Frequently asked questions
Where are Les Hautes-Mynes du Thillot?
In Le Thillot, in the High Vosges, about a 40-minute drive from La Bresse. The reception and ticket desk are at the Maison des Hautes-Mynes, 47 rue de la Gare.
What is the minimum age for the mine visit?
The underground visit of the Rouge-Montagne mine is open from age 5, provided children are at least one metre tall. Helmet and headlamp are supplied on site.
How cold is it inside the galleries?
The underground galleries stay at 9°C all year round. Bring a jacket and closed walking shoes, even in midsummer.
Do I need to book in advance?
Booking is strongly recommended, especially during school holidays and summer. Reserve by phone on +33 3 29 25 03 33 or via the official site hautesmynes.com.
How long does the visit take?
Allow around 2h15 for the full experience, which combines the museum tour and the guided underground galleries. Part of the route is outdoors on the archaeological site.
What can you do at Le Thillot when it rains?
Les Hautes-Mynes are an ideal rainy-day outing: both the museum and the galleries are under cover. It is one of the few underground attractions in the area.