Dole Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Dole with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the cultural and natural attractions, find the best things to do, try delicious local dishes, and discover the customs and culture of this charming city in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté.


Discovering Dole: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

If you’re looking for a charming city in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté to visit, Dole is definitely a great choice. Nestled in the Jura Mountains, this picturesque city is home to many cultural and natural attractions, delicious local dishes, and a fascinating local culture. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will provide you with practical information and valuable insights to help you plan your trip to Dole.

Introduction to Dole

Dole is a beautiful city located in the eastern part of France, in the Jura department of the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region. With a population of around 26,000 people, Dole is a charming and peaceful city that offers a lot to its visitors. The city boasts of a rich history, as it was once the capital of Franche-Comté and an important trading center in the region.

List of Places to Visit in Dole

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dole is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of museums and historical places to explore. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Dole:

  • Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dole: This museum is located in the former palace of the Dukes of Burgundy and features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
  • Maison natale de Pasteur: This museum is dedicated to the life and work of Louis Pasteur, the famous French microbiologist. The museum is located in the house where Pasteur was born and raised.
  • Collegiale Notre-Dame: This Romanesque church was built in the 12th century and is one of the most important religious buildings in Dole. It boasts of stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
  • La Commanderie des Templiers: This former Templars’ commandery is now a museum that showcases the history of the Templars in the region. The museum features artifacts, documents, and multimedia displays that tell the story of the Templars and their impact on Dole.

Natural Attractions of Dole: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dole is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of outdoor activities and scenic views to enjoy. Here are some of the must-visit natural attractions in Dole:

  • Mont Roland: This mountain is located just outside of Dole and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. It is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
  • Lac de Chalain: This beautiful lake is located about 30 kilometers from Dole and offers a wide range of water sports and outdoor activities. The lake is surrounded by beautiful forests and is a great place to spend a day in nature.
  • Les Grottes de Baume: These caves are located near Dole and offer a unique opportunity to explore underground rivers, lakes, and rock formations. The cave system is open to visitors and offers guided tours.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dole

Dole and its surroundings have some fantastic hiking and biking trails to explore. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  • Circuit de la Vigne à la Bière: This 11-kilometer hike takes you through the vineyards and hop fields of the region, with beautiful views of the Jura Mountains and the city of Dole along the way.
  • EuroVelo 6: This bike route spans across Europe and passes through Dole, offering a beautiful ride along the Doubs River.
  • Sentier des Maquisards: This 7-kilometer hike takes you through the forested hills outside of Dole and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is named after the resistance fighters who hid in the forest during World War II.

Best Things to Do in Dole: Activities and Tours

In addition to exploring the museums, historical sites, and natural beauty of Dole, there are plenty of other things to do in the city. Here are some of the best activities and tours to try:

  • Take a walking tour of the city: Dole is a small city that is easy to explore on foot, and there are many guided walking tours available that will take you to the most important landmarks and attractions.
  • Attend a concert or show: Dole has a lively cultural scene, with many concerts, plays, and other events happening throughout the year.
  • Visit the weekly market: Every Tuesday, Dole hosts a large market where you can find local products, including cheeses, wines, meats, and fresh produce.
  • Take a boat tour: The Doubs River runs through Dole, and there are many boat tours available that will take you along the river and showcase the city from a different perspective.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dole

If you’re planning to spend a week in Dole, here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time in the city:

Day 1: Arrive in Dole and explore the historic center of the city. Day 2: Visit the Maison natale de Pasteur and the Collegiale Notre-Dame. Day 3: Take a walking tour of Dole and visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dole. Day 4: Explore the natural beauty of the region by hiking Mont Roland or visiting Les Grottes de Baume. Day 5: Visit La Commanderie des Templiers and discover the history of the Templars in the region. Day 6: Take a boat tour of the Doubs River or visit Lac de Chalain for some water sports and outdoor activities. Day 7: Explore the local food scene and try some delicious local dishes before departing Dole.

Food and Drink Scene of Dole

Dole is known for its delicious local cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the local produce and traditions of the region. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Dole:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poulet à la Comtoise: This dish is a regional specialty made with chicken, cream, and Comté cheese.
  • Escargots de Bourgogne: This classic French dish features cooked snails with garlic and butter.
  • Charcuterie: The region is known for its high-quality cured meats, including ham, sausage, and pâté.

Local Beverages

  • Vin Jaune: This dry white wine is unique to the Jura region and is aged for at least six years in oak barrels, giving it a distinct, nutty flavor.
  • Absinthe: This anise-flavored spirit has been produced in the region since the 19th century and is often served as an aperitif or digestif.
  • Chardonnay and Pinot Noir: These popular wine grape varieties are also grown in the region and are often used to produce high-quality wines.

Where to Stay in Dole: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dole has a wide range of accommodation options, from affordable hostels and guesthouses to more luxurious hotels and resorts. Here are some of the best places to stay in Dole:

  • Hôtel de la Cloche: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Dole and offers comfortable rooms and a charming atmosphere.
  • Les Tomettes Rouges: This cozy bed and breakfast is located just outside of Dole and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Camping La Plage Blanche: This campsite is located near Lac de Chalain and offers a range of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins.

What to Buy in Dole: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home from Dole, here are some of the best options:

  • Comté Cheese: This cow’s milk cheese is made in the region and is known for its nutty and rich flavor.
  • Wine: The Jura region is known for its high-quality wines, including Vin Jaune, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
  • Handicrafts: There are many local artisans in Dole who produce handmade pottery, jewelry, and other crafts that make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Dole

Like many cities in France, Dole has a rich local culture and customs that are worth exploring. Here are some of the most important customs and traditions in Dole:

  • Respect for food: Food is a central part of the local culture in Dole, and there is a strong emphasis on using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients in all dishes.
  • Politeness and etiquette: Like many French people, the locals in Dole place a high value on politeness and etiquette in social interactions.
  • Love for the outdoors: The natural beauty of the region plays a big role in the local culture, and many people in Dole enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and water sports.

Best Time to Visit Dole

The best time to visit Dole depends on your preferences and interests. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your trip:

  • Summer: The summer months (June-August) are a popular time to visit Dole because of the warm temperatures and many outdoor festivals and events.
  • Spring and Fall: The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, making them a great time to explore the city without the crowds.
  • Winter: While Dole is beautiful in the winter, many of the outdoor activities and attractions are closed or less accessible during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dole

When visiting Dole, it’s important to be aware of local customs and etiquette. Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local food and wine.
  • Learn a few basic French phrases.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Dress too casually.
  • Be late for appointments or meetings.
  • Be disrespectful to local culture or customs.

Safety and Health

Dole is a safe and healthy city to visit, with good medical facilities and low crime rates. Here are some tips for staying safe and healthy while in Dole:

Safety in Dole

  • Keep your valuables safe and secure.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Avoid any political demonstrations or protests.

Health in Dole

  • Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.
  • Pack any necessary medication and medical supplies.
  • Be aware of any allergies or medical conditions that may require special attention.

Getting to Dole: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Dole is relatively easy, with several transportation options available. Here are some of the best ways to get to Dole:

  • By air: The closest airport to Dole is the Dole-Jura Airport, which has flights to and from several European destinations.
  • By train: Dole has a train station that is served by the TGV high-speed train, making it easy to travel to and from other cities in France and Europe.
  • By car: Dole is located near several major highways, making it easy to drive to and from other cities in France and Europe.

Airports Near Dole

  • Dole-Jura Airport (DLE): 10 kilometers from Dole.

Bus Stations Near Dole

  • Gare routière de Dole: The main bus station in Dole, with service to other cities in the region and beyond.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Renting a car is a great way to explore the surrounding region and visit nearby attractions.

How to Get Around in Dole

Dole is a small city that is easy to navigate on foot, but there are also several other transportation options available. Here are some of the best ways to get around in Dole:

  • Walking: The historic center of Dole is relatively small and easy to explore on foot.
  • Biking: There are several bike rental shops in Dole, and the city is served by several bike routes.
  • Public transportation: Dole has a bus system that serves the city and surrounding areas.
  • Taxi: Taxis are available in Dole but can be more expensive than other transportation options.

Where to Go Next from Dole: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Dole is located in a beautiful and historic region of France, and there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to explore. Here are some of the best places to go after your visit to Dole:

  • Besançon: This historic city is located about an hour away from Dole and is home to many beautiful medieval landmarks and museums.
  • Jura Mountains: This beautiful mountain range is located close to Dole and offers many opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic views.
  • Beaune: This charming city in the Burgundy region is famous for its wine and historic landmarks, and is located about two hours away from Dole.

Conclusion

Dole is a charming and picturesque city in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté that offers a lot to its visitors. From its rich cultural heritage to its stunning natural beauty and delicious local cuisine, there is something for everyone in Dole. With this comprehensive travel guide, you should have all the information you need to plan your trip to Dole and explore everything this wonderful city has to offer.