A trip to a glass and crystal-making centre
In the region of the Haute-Saône and the Vosges, a towering chimney and long, pink sandstone buildings signal the presence of the Verrerie de la Rochère. These glassworks were founded in 1475 by the squire and gentleman glassmaker Simon de Thysac. They are located on the edge of the extensive forest of Darney, where all the raw materials for glassmaking can be found.
La Rochère is the only remaining glassworks in the region. It produces three main types of product: glass tiles, slabs and bricks (it is the only centre in France to make such products), glass tableware (using either pressed glass or glass which had been handmade and blown by the craftsmen) and, lastly, decorative objects (vases, lamps and dishes of white or coloured crystalline featuring patterns inspired by Art Nouveau).
Creativity and innovation flow freely here, making this Franche-Comté establishment one of the most highly reputed in the world.
The mineral and the vegetal are married together to produce collections whose design and colours are unique. 
A visit to the site will give you a chance to watch the master craftsmen keeping alive age-old techniques and to experience the magic of molten glass. The venerable buildings are today devoted to displaying the collections, including the Caveau Saint-Valbert and the contemporary art gallery beside the Japanese garden.
An amazing 17th century roof structure, studded with glass tiles, encloses the boutique and adds yet more sparkle to the wonderful glass and crystal objects which are on display here.
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The emblem of the "Petites Cités Comtoises de Caractère" is a sketched outline of a Franche-Comté bell tower.