Franche-Comte

The Jura mountains to the east form a natural border with Switzerland - and an alternative ski area to the Alps further north. Here there are the longest cross-country ski trails in France.

The whole region is ideal for country lovers. In the Belfort department to the north 540 km (350 miles) of marked trails are ideal for hiking, horseback riding and biking. In the centre of the region, the Doubs, Saone and Ognon rivers and their lakes are ideal for water sports enthusiasts.

Besançon, the region’s capital, is also known as France’s greenest city. A loop of the Doubs river surrounds its centre - making it ideal for boat touring. As for gastronomy, the region is famous for its Comté Cheese, morel mushrooms and coq au vin, complemented by its red, white and yellow wines.