The large eastern region of France-Comte is a popular destination for those who enjoy nature tourism, thanks to its diverse landscapes and wide range of outdoor activities. The main town of Besancon is a pleasant historic community with plenty of tourist accommodation, restaurants and other amenities, particularly if you are taking advantage of the warm climate to camp in the countryside and need to stock up on supplies. Besancon, located in the heart of the region, is also famous for its interesting astronomical clock, containing over 30,000 moving pieces. Make sure you visit the cathedral to see it in action.
The north of the region is well known for the area known as the Mille Etangs or Thousand Ponds. A large plateau that is full of lakes and smaller bodies of water, it is a unique landscape to explore on foot. Many of the lakes are private, so try not to be tempted to take a dip without asking permission from the local farmhouse first! Close by is the Ballons des Vosges Regional Nature Park, a large area of open wilderness that stretches over four departements combining mountains, forests, valleys and marked walking trails for even the most amateur hikers. Take a trip to the nearby town of Ronchamp, where the notorious artist Le Corbusier created a modern chapel that has become not only a popular destination with art lovers, but also a place of religious pilgrimage.
The area in the south of the Franche-Comte region is known as the Jura, and is as well known for its vineyards and fine wine as it is for its beautiful natural scenery, historic villages and winter skiing. Come the summer months, these ski resorts are popular with hikers and, more especially, mountain bikers who take over the slopes. The ski resort of Metbief in particular is a haven for mountain bikers in the summer months, and visitors can hire bikes from the town if they haven't brought their own. There are several lakes in the area, such as the Chalain with its popular beaches and water sports centres, while many of the smaller ones offer pleasant walking trails around the shore or up to viewpoints on the surrounding hills. One of the best viewpoints in the area is on the path between the villages of Doucier and Bonlieu, where there are over 30 waterfalls on a walk that is only four kilometres long, including the 60 metre high Grand Saut.
Looking for self catering holiday accommodation in Franche-Comte? Then below is a selection of gites in Franche-Comte and villas in Franche-Comte that can be rented direct from their owners. You can either click on each listing for further details or you can use our search engine on the left if you are looking for something in particular.
