France Guide
The Alps and Franche-Comté
The present appearance of the Alps is the result of both the collision of continental tectonic plates over tens of millions of years, and the eroding actions of multiple glaciers and fast-flowing rivers. The mountain range contains some of Europe's most stunning mountain landscapes and picturesque rural settlements, while also providing plenty of fun outdoor pursuits. Although you have to walk a long distance or, in winter, ski to see the more remote parts of these landscapes, there are also many beautiful routes open to car-drivers and cyclists.
The region of Franche-Comté to the north is often bypassed by tourists, but the mountains, forests and pastures which you will find here are beautifully tranquil, and nestled among them are some of the prettiest villages in the country. One great way to explore this region is through walking on the GR (Grande Randonnée) footpaths, the network of long-distance trails that connect France with its European neighbours. Notable paths which pass through Franche-Comté include the marathon GR5 from the Netherlands to the Mediterranean, and the GR9, which snakes its way through the Parc Régional du Haut-Jura.
Highlights
1 Skiing and snowboarding Test your skills from December to April in the world-class resorts of Chamonix and Val d'Isère.
2 Parc Naturel Régional du Queyras Walk or drive through the empty mountain landscapes of the Queyras to St-Véran, one of the highest villages in Europe.
3 Annecy Admire the beauty of Annecy's fairy-tale location beside the Lac d'Annecy and in the midst of spectacular mountains.
4 Aiguille du Midi Brave one of the world's highest cable-car ascents for a spectacular view of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Europe.
5 Lake Geneva Enjoy the sedate pleasures of spa towns like Évian on the French side of this huge and beautiful lake, or hop on one of the frequent ferries to Switzerland.
6 Besançon Explore the imposing Citadelle, the well-preserved Roman ruins and the inviting cafés of the capital of Franche-Comté.
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