The Territory of Belfort is a curiosity among the French départements. Many people wonder why it goes by this unusual name. So, try and imagine...
... A region set right in the heart of Europe, a stone's throw from Switzerland, the vineyards of southern Alsace and Germany.
A turbulent history that gave rise to this "Territory", created under the terms of the Treaty of Frankfurt, signed after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. Alsace and Lorraine were returned to France in 1918, but the Territory of Belfort was not reunited with the Haut-Rhin and officially became France's 90th département in 1922.
From the Sun King to Denfert-Rochereau, the city of Belfort has always been at the heart of the history of France. "Never surrender!", the last cry of the Count de la Suze, was to seal the fate of the city for evermore. Belfort has maintained unparalleled traces of this glorious history, the living proof of the city's strategic importance over the centuries. Sheltered by the protective paw of the Lion, the masterpiece of sculptor Bartholdi, Belfort is surrounded by the ramparts designed by the genius of Vauban.
By visiting the various sites and monuments, you will get a sense of the vivacity of the city's history. The Old Town, which has been entirely renovated, is a myriad of narrow streets and charming squares. A place for strolling casually, for a spot of bargain hunting in the various antique shops, to take time out from it all to enjoy life, Belfort-style. Just as Alphonse Allais had dreamed, the flower-filled city of Belfort is a veritable "garden city", where every narrow street has views over a wooded hill. The town is full of parks and gardens, an invitation to walk or to take a bike ride, along one of the many cycle paths. Whether you choose the quiet, shady squares, the fabulously rich parks and gardens, or the ironworks lake, a jewel of nature in the heart of the city, you will be able to take a break from the pace of urban life. It is hard to remain untouched by this abundance of nature in the city centre.
This is the story of a little corner of France where bountiful nature and turbulent history come together. A haven of peace set in lush greenery, a wonderful blend of sporting activities and relaxation, culture, history, festivities and gastronomy.
As you wander along the département's paths, you will not fail to fall under the charm of the authentic villages and hamlets. The seal of history has been stamped across these parts, and the heritage that has been left behind gives the region a special, unique atmosphere. Enjoying the recipes of yesteryear, welcoming guests as warmly as possible and sharing a taste for celebration, these are the principles of the Belfort lifestyle.
In the Southern Vosges, the Ballon d'Alsace, a large national conservation area located in the heart of the Regional National Park of the Ballons des Vosges, is an ideal place for a great holiday, in winter just as in summer. Keen anglers and hikers will revel in the mountain streams and waterfalls, while the more adventurous will try their hand at extreme sports: paragliding, survival courses, etc. The Ballon d'Alsace is heaven on earth for those who like their nature untouched.
The voluptuous stretches of water and of forest are the main attractions of the Territory of Belfort, which nestles against the foothills of the Jura. The canals and lakes, and the hundreds of ponds such as those in "Little Sologne", add their charm to the calm beauty of the scenery. Visitors who are keen on fishing could dream of no better sites than the region's rivers and lakes, and are sure to get a warm welcome from local anglers.
Delle, the city of the Cariatides and Beaucourt, the birthplace of the Japy saga, are the highlights of an exceptional industrial and cultural heritage which contrasts with the picturesque small towns of the region.
Marne
( 51 )
An holyday rental for 200 €
A trip low price
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Tarn
( 81 )
From the Montagne Noire, the southern tip of the Massif Central, to the wide, tranquil plains of the Agout and Tarn rivers, and from the rugged unspoilt Ségala region to the rounded hills of the Vaurais, gateway to the sprawling plains of the Lauragais, the Tarn offers an enormou...
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Destination:
Territoire de Belfort
BELFORT CITE DU LION
