Arbois, little 'Town of Character' in Franche-Comté

Just like the colour of its wines, Arbois is a radiant, glimmering place!
The buildings in this 'Town of Character' of the Franche-Comté region are built using ochre-coloured stone and the town is surrounded by unspoilt nature and vineyards, making it a very pleasant, easy-going place to be. Come and explore the area, discover some superb architecture and scenery, and make sure you taste the local delights! Just like Louis Pasteur, you are sure to fall for this charming town.

Village d'Arbois Bestjobers Elisa & Max / BFC Tourisme

Balade dans les vignes Bestjobers Elisa & Max / BFC Tourisme

Cave de la Reine Jeanne Arbois Alain Doire / BFC Tourisme

Maison Pasteur à Arbois Sandrine Baverel / BFC Tourisme

Les maisons à encorbellement d'Arbois Alain DOIRE / BFC Tourisme

La pierre ocre d'Arbois C. Dufay

Douceur de vivre à Arbois

La Cuisance s'écoule entre maisons suspendues, petits ponts et jardins, avec, au fond, l'église Saint-Just comme témoin.

C. Dufay

Arbois: an exceptional village

We are big fans of the bright and multicoloured atmosphere in this little 'Town of Character' of the Franche-Comté region, with its winegrower's houses, houses built over the river, waterways and romantic-style gardens.

There are heritage sites dotted alongside the river in this pretty town of the Jura Mountains:

Pont des Capucins,
the village fortifications and Gloriette square tower,
Château Pécauld,
corner turrets and buildings with archways,
the 12th-century church of Saint-Just
and Louis Pasteur's childhood home, making him a prominent figure for the village.

We recommend taking a leisurely stroll around the village, venturing down the narrow streets, and inside some of the buildings where you'll be surprised to come across discreet, original architectural treasures. This town is a magical place with so much to see!

For a spot of culture

In the footsteps of Louis Pasteur

Louis Pasteur came back to his home in Arbois throughout his life, and it was the only house he ever actually owned.

The house is still exactly how the scientist left it when he passed away and visitors can really feel his presence there as they learn about his life and work.

To take this experience even further, follow the Route Pasteur. This great man left traces of his presence in several villages throughout the Jura region, evidence of his deeply rooted bond with the area.

In 2022, the Jura Mountains are celebrating the bicentenary of his birth. Throughout the year, there will be exhibitions, commented walking tours, and various festive events. An opportunity to celebrate the life of one of the greatest scientific genuises of all time!

Celebrate the bicentenary of Louis Pasteur

Jacques Brel certainly didn't go wrong when he sung about "the delicious wine we drink in Arbois".

Jura wines and gourmet establishments

AOC Arbois, the oldest winegrowing AOC in France

To the Jura wines destination!

If you are a fan of Jura wines and wine & food pairing, then you're in the right place!

In the capital of Jura wines, everything takes inspiration from and is a reflection of the winegrowing heritage.

There are of course the wineries and their shops dotted throughout the village, the winegrowing architecture, the vineyards adding colour to the landscapes... And there is also the Musée de la Vigne et du Vin which can be found inside the magnificent Château Pécauld.

While you're visiting Arbois, make sure you stop by the winegrower's tasting cellars where the winegrowers are always delighted to tell you about their wines and what makes them so special.

Everything there is to know about Jura wines

Gastronomy

Where masters of good taste can be found

Fans of great food and drink should know that Arbois has also been granted the 'place of remarkable taste' quality label.

Restaurants with wine & food pairing, small cosy establishments, 'Best Craftsman of France' and so much more. The culinary traditions of the Jura have been showcased in Arbois since the 18th century.

Venture inside the Edouard Hirsinger chocolate factory and confectioner's, bearing the 'Best Craftsman of France' and master chocolate maker titles.

Philippe Troussard, 'Best Craftsman of France' in sommellerie and owner of the hotel-restaurant, Les Caudalies, will advise you on the best wine & food pairings thanks to his instinct and passion.

Hirsinger chocolate and confectionary

A remarkable natural environment

Arbois is a unique and wild place, surrounded by vineyards with subtle shades of colour, mountains and forests, water and viewpoints.

From the village of Planches-près-d'Arbois (5 km from Arbois), come and explore the mountainous terrain. The magnificent Planches pocket valley is a 'Natura 2000' site and offers breathtaking scenery. Water has flowed through this beautiful mountain environment, shaping the caves, to then reappear at the Cascade des Tufs!

Come and explore the Cascade des Tufs