Franche-Comte
This little known region borders Switzerland and shares much of its architecture, cuisine, and culture with its neighbour. Between the Vosges range of mountains to the north and the Jura (Gaulish word meaning 'forest') range to the south, the landscape consists of rolling cultivated fields, dense pine forest and rampart like mountains.
Not as majestic as the Alps, the Jura mountains are more accessible and are France's premier cross-country skiing area. It is also a superb place to hike and there are some fine nature trails on the more gentle slopes. The Doubs and Loue valleys, noted for their timbered houses perched on stilts in the river, and the high valley of Ain, are popular visitor areas. The Region des Lacs is a land of gorges and waterfalls dotted with tiny villages, each with a domed belfry decorated with mosaic of tiles or slates or beaten from metal. The lakes are perfect for swimming. The summits of Haute Jura have wonderful views across Lac Leman (Lake Geneva) and towards the Alps.
A region of virgin pine forests, fir clad mountain ridges and water, making up every type of waterworld imaginable: from lakes and streams to grottoes and dramatic waterfalls.
Franche Comte is strong on outdoor activities, and although big cities are in short supply - fresh air is most certainly not. It will appeal particularly to anyone who wants to avoid crowds and enjoy alpine countryside with a French twist.