Pontarlier: A Picturesque Mountainside Town in France
located past the slopes of the Jura Mountains in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region in the commune of Pontarlier, France, in the Doubs department of the country. It is characterized by several lakes and forests and is best known for the production of absinthe. The nearest airport is Dole-Jura Airport (DLE) in Dole, 54 miles away.
Best Time to Visit
Pontarlier, France provides great weather for travel from late June to late August. Expect mostly cold weather throughout the year. June, August, and April are the busiest months for tourism. Best to book Pontarlier city hotels in October, its least crowded month. The Festival of Animation Cinema of Pontarlier happens in March, while the French Absinthe Festival occurs in October.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Pontarlier, France is home to Château de Joux, a castle and fort that traces back to the 11th century. It features a museum of arms with over 600 rare weapons dating back to the 18th century. Witness the translucent turquoise water of the La Source Bleue Malbuisson, then head up to the town's highest point, Le Grand Taureau. Visit Lac de Saint-Point, one of the largest natural lakes of the country or marvel at the architecture of Porte Saint Pierre. Enjoy easy access to sites like Port Titi in Saint-Point-Lac at the ibis budget Pontarlier, which offers simple rooms with Wi-Fi and breakfast buffet for a fee. Hôtel de Morteau offers low-key rooms, a breakfast buffet for a fee, a casual restaurant, and a bar with regional dishes and wines, as well as courtyard dining.