Gites in Franche Comte
Traditional style gites in Franche Comte are scattered around the superb countryside, allowing for unrestricted access to the wonderful scenic activities on offer here. It isn’t just about the great outdoors here though, there is plenty to do and see in the towns and cities in the east of France. As well as self catering options, such as gites, in Franche Comte, there are a variety of rustic retreats that are great as a base for exploring the area, but gites in Franche Comte are the ideal choice if you want to sit back and relax on holiday in a totally traditional way.
Franche Comte Accommodation
There is more to Franche Comte accommodation than first meets the eye, the area boasts a plethora of fantastic and unusual holiday homes available for families, friends and couples to stay in. From spacious châteaux with private pool and tennis court to modern barn conversions or to a cosy country lodge suitable for an intimate weekend away - accommodation in Franche Comte offers something for everyone and is certainly varied enough to cater for all tastes and occasions. This is thanks to the fabulous culture, architecture and history of the area, a feature of all Franche Comte accommodation.
Self Catering Franche Comte
The advantages of choosing self catering in Franche Comte include being able to set your own agenda at your own pace, having a base for family and friends to meet and relax at any time of the day, and also for having a wealth of facilities at your disposal for a truly French experience. When you decide to go self catering in Franche Comte, you can make the most of the local produce – fabulous foods and wines – in your very own self catering accommodation. Make the most of local markets, and don’t forget to spare a little time for trying out some locally produced wines!
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Franche-Comte
The rolling green hills and pine forests of Franche Comte in the east of France are perhaps some of the country’s best kept secrets, where both tranquillity and fun activities are never very far away. Since the region shares a border with Switzerland, it has lots in common in terms of food, architecture and culture – giving a thoroughly European feel that sets it apart from much of the rest of the country. For lovers of both history and the outdoors, Franche-Comte has lots and lots to offer – so why not visit and see for yourself.
Places to go in Franche Comte
Franche Comte is not endowed with a great many cities but that’s part of the region’s charm. It's communities are especially rich in history and things to do. The main city and capital is Besançon, which was France’s first ‘green city’ and has been blessed with the UNESCO World Heritage honour. Belfort, the home of the Statue of Liberty’s architect, Frédéric Bartholdi, offers lots of museums and a fascinating old town. The Château de Montbéliard (the castle of the Dukes of Württemberg) is the main attraction of Montbéliard, while Dole on the western side of Franche Comte is significant as the old capital of the region – until Louis XIV conquered the area. In amongst these charming towns and cities though, you’ll find tranquil hillsides, green forests and rivers a plenty!
Our Top Picks in Franche Comte
We want you to enjoy the best that Franche-Comte has to offer and so here's a selection of our favourite things to see and do;
Besancon Citadel
Offering fantastic views over the old quarter of Besançon city, Besançon Citadel has long been one of the big attractions in the region. You can easily while away many hours exploring the old ramparts of this impressive structure, but you’ll also find a selection of interesting museums, including a zoo, an insectarium, a noctarium, an aquarium, vivariums, a climatorium, botanical gardens, a pedagogical exhibit on evolution and a children's farm! You may well find yourself coming back the next day to finish it all off!
Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans
Salt was big business in 18th Century France, and you get a real sense of that when you visit the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans. Unfortunately, the full plans for the saltworks were never completed, but what was finished is most impressive. The central building and surrounding saltworks structures house a number of fascinating exhibits, both historical and artistic. If it’s too warm to spend a lot of time in these buildings, however, we recommend spending some time in the beautifully landscaped gardens that surround it: Probably the favoured option for younger visitors!
Jura Mountains Regional Natural Park
The influence of the Alps and Switzerland are never very far away in Franche Comte, and we think any visit to the region should include a trip to the Jura Mountains Regional Natural Park. There are plenty of planned summer and winter activities to enjoy in the park, many especially focused on maintaining traditional artistic and agricultural activities in the area. But the real draw are the great views offered by these mountains – and even if you don’t feel particularly fit when you come here, there are plenty of gentler walks and hikes to enjoy. Don’t forget your hiking boots!
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