|
|
Print-friendly version
Motorhoming in the Territoire de Belfort
The fifth smallest department of France after the four in the region of Paris that you can visit while motorhoming in Ile de France, the Territoire de Belfort is found in the north of the region Franche Comté and borders on Switzerland. Attached to France from 1648, the Territoire de Belfort has its own particular history and shouldn’t be neglected while you motorhome travel in France just because of its small size. On the contrary, this small department has several points of interest.
The Lion of Belfort is the most well known symbol of the department. This large stone lion symbolises the force, the resistance and the bravery of the people and their Governor during the war with the Prussians in 1870 when the town was besieged for 103 days. This victory in 1871 opened the doors for investment and industry which saw the town grow rapidly in size and guaranteed its attachment to France while the regions of Alsace and Lorraine fell once again under German control. Part of the towns ramparts were demolished to allow for this rapid expansion, but visitors today can still see the Vauban Citadel which dominates the town and which played a large part in the resistance against the Germans, and the old town where careful renovation has rejuvenated the pretty squares with their ornate fountains to create a charming town which also has a modern side, manifested particularly in the month of July when it hosts the Eurockéennes Festival which fills the town with music and a super ambiance.
Typically local to the Territoire de Belfort is the ‘épaule du Ballon’ which is a shoulder of lamb stuffed with bilberries and very much appreciated in the area. The bilberries are equally used for a very tasty aperitif. Theyare added to a dash of gin and a white, sparkling wine, ‘Crémant’ which you may have tasted when motorhoming in Jura, the neighbouring department.
There are lots of opportunities to take a break from driving in the Territoire which boasts many signed footpaths suitable for walkers or cyclists which take in, amongst other things the departments châteaux and fortresses. If you’re considering hiring a motorhome in France or hiring a motorhome in England you can make use of the Aires de Service in the Territoire de Belfort if you need to stop for a while or even overnight. Take the opportunity to go motorhoming in Doubs or motorhoming in Haute Saône.
|
|
