General Information An old Roman salt town, now prefecture of the Jura. Lons-le-Saunier is a spa town where visitors can sample the therapeutic effects of the salt water. In the heart of the Jura vineyards, Lons-le-Saunier is a picturesque and historic city. Its geographical location and its suitable accommodations enable Lons-le-Saunier to play an important role in commercial and economic exchanges, as well as cultural, sports and touristic activities. It is the birthplace of Rouget de Lisle (born in 1760), composer of the "Marseillaise" French national anthem.

	Cirque de Baume Baume-les-Messieurs Abbey In the vineyard hills between Lons and Arbois, erosion has carved a series of splendid valleys (reculées) ending in abrupt cirques of cliffs with caves: the "Cirque de Baume", 19 Km east of Lons. The village of Baume-les-Messieurs stands at the convergence of three valleys and is famous for its old abbey.
	Route des Vins Lons-le-Saunier is an excellent base to make excursions to the vineyards along the wine road with its castles and picturesque villages. Chateau du Pin This medieval castle located to the north of Lons is surrounded by vineyards and pastures. The tower built in the 13th Century to protect the salt road has been restored in the 15th Century. It offers a beautiful view.
	Chateau Chalon 15 km (10 miles) from Lons-le-Saunier, this beautiful medieval village is perched on a rocky promontory high above local vineyards. Its treasures include its 12th Century church, its feudal castle, its three scenic viewpoints and its "Vin Jaune", a golden-colored wine exquisite to both the nose and the palate. Chateau d'Arlay The beautiful setting of this 18th Century castle has been chosen to explain to visitors the role of predators in nature. Along the nature trail within the medieval ruins some 40 different birds of prey can be seen. The castle offers Jura wine-tasting. Natural Sites The "Lake Region" (Region des lacs). Area with many lakes (Vouglans, Clairvaux, Chalain and many more) where the "Lake Route" interconnects them and the region main centers of interest, such as museums, crafts, belvederes, natural sites, local gastronomy and other curiosities. Hérisson waterfalls. A succession of tumultuous waterfalls along a 2 miles-3 km trail. Baume-les-Messieurs caves
	Lons by image   Franche-Comte map

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