Introduction
Franche-Comte sits between the rural wine lands of Burgundy to the west and the rising peaks of the Alps to the east. Its sweeping farmland and dramatic alpine passes make it popular with outdoors enthusiasts, with opportunities for trekking and mountain biking along routes that stretch their way across the region and offer some spectacular views and pleasing rest spots. Skiing is popular in winter and as spring arrives the melting snows feed numerous rivers, which are packed with trout.
Most people visit Franche-Comte for the pretty virgin forests, the sparkling waterfalls and stunning passes, but there are also a number of towns and cities worth adding to your tailor-made travel plans. The regional capital of Besançon is a pleasant city to wander around, set along a meander in the Doubs River.
South of here is Arbois, a pretty town surrounded by the vine-covered banks of the River Cuisance. It's the centre of Franche-Comte's wine lands and the best place to sample the regions vin jaune, a sweet sherry-like wine, a great accompaniment to local cheeses such as Vacherin, Comté and Morbier.
