In brief
- The Hôtel des Thermes in Vittel has been officially listed as a historical monument by a prefectural decree signed on Friday 18 September 2026.
- This protection of regional importance allows the immediate resumption of rehabilitation work on this jewel of Vosges architecture.
- The architectural project plans for the creation of 56 housing units intended for young professionals within this historic building.
The Hôtel des Thermes in Vittel, an emblematic building of the thermal heritage of the Vosges, was officially listed as a historical monument on Friday 18 September 2026 by a decree of the regional prefect. This major administrative decision, long-awaited by defenders of Lorraine heritage, removes the final regulatory obstacles to the rehabilitation of this architectural masterpiece. Thanks to this decree, a vast construction project will be able to resume in the heart of the famous Vosges spa resort, bringing a dormant building back to life while adapting it to contemporary requirements.
A crucial administrative decision for the future of the site
After several months of waiting and speculation, the uncertainty has finally cleared in the Vosges plain. The Regional Commission for Heritage and Architecture (CRPA) of the Grand Est, chaired by David Valence, had already issued a favourable opinion on 28 May regarding the preservation of the establishment. However, for this safeguarding project to materialise legally, the official publication of a prefectural decree was essential.
This has now been done. Samuel Bouju, secretary-general for regional and European affairs of the Grand Est, signed the prefectural decree this Friday 18 September 2026, definitively sealing the fate of the thermal establishment. This signature marks a decisive turning point for the Vosges municipality, officially establishing the protection of this masterpiece.
The rebirth of the Hôtel des Thermes in Vittel
Located on the prestigious Avenue des Tilleuls, the Hôtel des Thermes is about to undergo a major metamorphosis. This building, a witness to the golden age of spa tourism and luxury holidaying in the East of France, had gently fallen asleep over the decades. The decision to list it among the historical monuments allows for the rigorous supervision of future restoration operations while guaranteeing respect for its architectural integrity.
Scaffolding will thus be able to return to the site to carry out this large-scale project. Interior renovation work will resume under the supervision of heritage authorities, ensuring the preservation of period decorative elements while modernising the structural elements of the building.
Contemporary housing at the heart of heritage
Far from being transformed into a simple museum frozen in time, the Hôtel des Thermes is part of a particularly modern urban revitalisation approach. The architectural project validated by the Regional Directorate of Cultural Affairs (DRAC) plans for an intelligent repurposing of the interior spaces of the former thermal palace.
This ambitious restructuring will give rise to 56 fully equipped apartments intended for young professionals in the region. This initiative addresses a crucial need for quality housing while reusing the existing structure, thereby avoiding urban sprawl and enhancing the residential appeal of Vittel.
Regional protection to enhance local history
By acquiring this new status of historical monument of regional importance, the Hôtel des Thermes is guaranteed durability for future generations. The Vosges, rich in their prestigious thermal past shared between Vittel and Contrexéville, thus reaffirm their desire to place heritage at the heart of their tourism and economic development strategy.
This listing crowns the joint efforts of local elected officials and state services to maintain the unique aesthetic identity of the region. The Avenue des Tilleuls thus preserves its iconic historical alignment, while the town of Vittel consolidates its reputation as a spa destination where the prestige of the past meets the ambitions of the future.
