Pontarlier
Pontarlier is found to the east of Franche-Comté, close to the border with Switzerland and on the edge of the Jura mountain range, at an altitude of 837 metres above sea level..
The history of the town revolves around its position on the important trade route between Besancon and Switzerland / Italy. There are a few interesting highlights in the town, which makes for a pleasant visit.
The Triumphal Arch is the best known of these. It is a grand stone arch-entrance dating from the 18th century - you won't miss it, it dominates the entrance to the town. The arch was built to commemorate France seizing the territory in the 17th century - the town also has a municipal museum to explain the history of the region (and absinthe production).
See also the doorway to the Chapel de l'Esperance; and the Church of Saint-Benigne - be sure to take a look at the modern stained glass windows in the church. The picture below shows the Palais de Justice in Pontarlier. Other grand buildings in the town include the College Philipe Grenier and the Town Hall.
The Joux Castle that stands high above the town dates from the 12th century (with 17th century Vauban modifications) and also has very far reaching views. It contains a museum of ancient armaments (summer only).
The surrounding region is popular with hikers, cyclists, kayaks and other outdoor pursuits. The town also has access to various ski-resorts in the Jura if you are visiting during the winter months.
Note: the town of Pontarlier was once an important absinthe producing centre. This ceased when the drink was banned from 1915 but following the repeal of the ban, absinthe is once again produced here.
(Note: photo by Rama is copyright)
Visit Pontarlier (Franche-Comte, Doubs) travel, gites and hotels
Best Prices on Hotels in Pontarlier - Guaranteed
(see guarantee details) Reserve online, pay at the hotel
The Pontarlier hotels listed feature descriptions, guest reviews, ratings, location maps, online booking etc. as well as the 'best-price' guarantee. The search for hotels in Pontarlier is provided by booking.com. General holiday / vacation options- See Franche-Comte gites for Pontarlier holiday rentals Holidays nearbyLooking for something close by? See a wide choice of hotels, holiday villages and holiday rentals at: Places to Stay near Pontarlier Pontarlier Car HireVisit Pontarlier Car Hire for cheap car hire optons and available car collection points VisitSee Visit Pontarlier for places to visit near Pontarlier including: a detailed map, villages in bloom and most beautiful villages DiscussAsk questions or leave a comment about Pontarlier in our Franche-Comte forum Pontarlier property for saleSee Franche-Comte property for sale
|
|
||||||||||||
Tourist Classifications for Pontarlier
- Listed as "Plus Beaux Detour" town in France (ie recommended stopover place)
Places to visit near Pontarlier, France
Explore places of interest within about 70 kilometres on a map at places near Pontarlier.
Some places to visit within 30 km: 
19 km: Lods (Most beautiful village) 12 km: Loue River Valley (Scenic village) 32 km: Ornans (Town)
See also Pontarlier (version Francais)
