The village of Lods is situated 40 kilometres to the south-east of Besancon in the Doubs department of Franche-Comte (eastern France), on the side of a hill and surrounded by tree lined slopes. The village historically developed around two industries: firstly wine production and then later the iron forges on the river.
Explore Lods
France This way comment: although Lods is small and a visit does not take very long, the ancient houses along the river create a very lovely scene, and one of the prettiest villages in the region.
The small village is in a picturesque setting on the Loue river which tumbles down small waterfalls in the village centre - these were lit up at night when we visited, which was a very attractive sight (I understand the waterfalls are only lit up during the summer months).
Lods itself is a quiet village with a main square and some pretty, narrow, streets to explore, lined with old stone cottages - typically these are traditional winegrowers houses that were built in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Many of the houses have unique architectural features such as ornate windows or an engraved stone embedded in the wall or a fountain outside further adding to the character of the village.
Other points of interest along the river include the 19th century forges and one part of the 16th century stone bridge. The grand manor house you can see above the village is the 14th century Chateau de Lods: the main part, the logis, was rebuilt in the 16th century but the wall with part of a tower and the courtyard are from the earlier building (the chateau is not open to the public).
If you walk up to the higher part of the village you can see the 18th century Church of Saint-Theodule and a nice view across the countryside.
You can visit the small Museum of Vineyards and Wine in Lods to see home interesting tools and other objects related to the wine industry.
Lods is officially classified as one of the 'most beautiful villages of France' as well as a 'city of character' for the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region.
Photos 1 2 3 by JGS25 are copyright.
Attractions nearby
While in the region visiting Lods you should also visit nearby Ornans, and enjoy a tour along the peaceful valley of the Loue River valley. Other noteworthy villages in the Loue Valley include Mouthier-Haute-Pierre, Vuillafans-Chateauvieux and Ouhans, Cleron and Scey-en-Veray, each with their own particular appeal.
Explore elsewhere in the Loue River valley. You can find more travel ideas in the Doubs guide and the Franche-Comte guide.
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Map of Lods and places nearby
Visit near Lods with France This Way reviews
Mouthier-Haute-Pierre
The small village of Mouthier-Haute-Pierre is well placed to explore the source of the Loue river and several other scenic highlights in Doubs
Mouthier-Haute-Pierre guide
Ornans
The highlight of your visit to Ornans is the section along the Loue river, crossed by old stone bridges and with lovely houses on the riverside
Ornans guide
Chateau de Cleron
The gardens of the Chateau de Cleron can be seen next to the Loue River in the village of Cleron in Doubs
Chateau de Cleron guide
Pontarlier
Pontarlier is usually visited as part of a trip to enjoy the local scenery and outddor activities, and has several monuments of note
Pontarlier guide
Chateau de Joux
The Chateau de Joux is an imposing clifftop castle with a 1000 year history close to Pontarlier
Chateau de Joux guide
Besancon
The citadel, cathedral and some impressive 16th century townhouses are among the highlights to discover in Besancon
Besancon guide... or see ALL recommended places to visit in Doubs
Tourist classifications for Lods
Lods is classified as a one of the most beautiful village in France (plus beau villages)
Address: Lods, Ornans, Besançon, Franche-Comte, 25930, France || GPS coordinates: latitude 47.045, longitude 6.2488
Plan your visit to Lods, Doubs
Sightseeing & tourist attractions to visit nearby
- Gouffre de Poudrey: site of natural beauty (12 km)
- Défilé d'Entre-Roches: site of natural beauty (17 km)
- Pontarlier: recommended detour (17 km)
- Gorges de Remonot: site of natural beauty (23 km)
- Besancon citadelle (Vauban fortifications): heritage site (26 km)
- Citadelle de Besançon: zoo or wildlife park (26 km)
- Besancon: secteur sauvegarde (27 km)
- Astronomical clock of Besancon: national monument (29 km)
- Forêt de la Joux: site of natural beauty (30 km)
- Salins-les-Bains: town of art and history (30 km)
- Saut du Doubs: site of natural beauty (35 km)
- Gorges du Doubs: site of natural beauty (35 km)
The French version of this page is at Lods (Francais)