Posts Tagged ‘ancient regime’

France is a Western European country with much to explore. From world class cities to beautiful landscapes, every turn is filled with memorable sites, delicious food, fine wine, and friendly people. For those who like to venture off the beaten trail, Besancon, capital of the Franche-Comte region, offers a good place to begin a France vacation. Located southeast of Paris, it is less than a half-day by SNCF (French National Railways). If you plan ahead, a rental car can be waiting upon your arrival at the Besancon train station.

After securing a room at one of the many hotels around town, explore the city’s historic sites, such as the Citadel of Besancon, parts of which date to the Middle-Ages, or the Opera Theatre, designed by the chief architect of the Ancient Regime, Claude-Nicolas Ledoux. Stroll down the cobble stone streets, or along the Doubs, the river that cradles the town. Then, settle in for an evening at a street side caf. Relax with a glass of Le Vin Jaune and sample the region’s many specialties, which include Comte cheese, country stew, and trout.

After a good night’s rest take an auto tour, via the Route de Besancon, southeast along La Loue, a tributary of the Doubs. You will soon arrive at Ornans, home to the renowned French realist painter of the 19th century, Gustave Courbet, whose painting of his Uncle’s funeral has immortalized the city. Like his Uncle, Courbet has departed, but his house, now a museum, remains. Trace La Loue further down the road to Ouhans, where you will discover the river’s source dramatically pouring from a cave on the side of a cliff. At the end of the day, return to Besancon or continue on to any number of wonderful places that await you on your France vacation.

Tours in France

Author: Julie Bowman
Article Source: EzineArticles.com
Provided by: Make PCB Assembly