Surrounded by massifs

It is principally its mountain ranges - the Jura mountain range and the Vosges massifs - which shape the Franche-Comté. These mountains – a particularity richly endowed natural resource – have also to some extent shaped the life of the Franc-Comtois and great care is taken to preserve them.

Mountains everywhere

The Jura mountains in the East stretch along 200 kms and reach their highest point of 1495 metres at Crêt Pela. They are densely wooded and a source of relaxation to those who pass through them. The massif of the Vosges in the north is shared with Alsace and the Lorraine. Its highest peak is the Ballon d’Alsace reaching a height of 1247 metres. It is also the meeting-point of the 3 regions. The 2 mountain-ranges are of different character, both possessing ecosystems that require careful attention. In the Franche-Comté, nature is loved, respected and also protected. As an economic resource it is exploited with intelligence.

2 regional natural parks to maintain the life of the mountains

The Franche-Comté is anxious to preserve its natural heritage and has associated with the Rhone Alpes region in making every effort to protect the Jura mountains, together with its identity and traditions. The regional natural park of the Haut-Jura, is a gesture toward respecting this environment and that of its traditional activities: the making of wooden pipes and toys, the manufacture of glasses and that of wooden packing cases and packagings.

The Regional Natural Park of the Ballon des Vosges further to the north has overcome administrative and cultural differences to become one of the largest parks of its kind in France. The diversity of its natural micro-environments lends interest to this site and the visitor can appreciate its lakes and ponds, museums, local products and discover the unusual Chapelle de Le Corbusier at Ronchamp.