Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne? Read our comprehensive guide with tips on places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is a charming village in the Jura Mountains of eastern France, located in the region of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté. This small town is known for its beautiful natural scenery, rich history, and outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Maison de la Forêt: This old hunting lodge, located in the heart of the forest, has been transformed into a nature center that offers various exhibitions and activities related to the forest.
  • The Church of Sainte-Anne: This 18th-century church is a beautiful example of the local architecture. It is dedicated to Sainte-Anne, the patron saint of the village.
  • Chateau de Joux: Located a short drive from Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne, this castle is a must-visit for history buffs. It has a rich history dating back to the 11th century and has been used as a fortress, prison, and museum.

Natural Attractions of Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cascade du Hérisson: This stunning waterfall is located in the nearby Hérisson Valley. It is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
  • Forêt de Chaux: This beautiful forest stretches over 20,000 hectares and is perfect for hiking and biking. There are also many hidden lakes and ponds to discover.
  • Lac de Chalain: This lake is a great spot for swimming, boating, and fishing. It is surrounded by beautiful forests and mountains and is perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is known for its beautiful hiking and biking trails. Some popular routes include:

  • Le Sentier des 7 Cascades: This 15-km trail takes you through the Hérisson Valley, passing by seven stunning waterfalls along the way.
  • Le Tour du Lac de Chalain: This easy, 10-km trail takes you around the beautiful Lac de Chalain.
  • La Grande Traversée du Jura: This famous hiking trail spans over 400 km and takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Jura Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne: Activities and Tours

  • Caving: The Jura Mountains are home to many geological wonders, including caves and grottos. There are many local companies that offer guided caving tours.
  • Wine and Cheese Tasting: The Jura region is famous for its delicious wines and cheeses. Some local vineyards and cheese producers offer tours and tastings.
  • Snow Sports: During the winter months, the Jura Mountains become a popular ski and snowboard destination. There are many ski resorts in the area, including Métabief and Les Rousses.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

Day 1: Visit the Maison de la Forêt and go for a hike in the Forêt de Chaux Day 2: Explore the village of Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne and visit the Church of Sainte-Anne Day 3: Take a day trip to the Chateau de Joux Day 4: Go caving in the local caves or visit some nearby vineyards and cheese producers Day 5: Spend the day swimming and relaxing at Lac de Chalain Day 6: Go skiing or snowboarding at a nearby ski resort Day 7: Do a final hike on the Sentier des 7 Cascades or the Grande Traversée du Jura

Food and Drink Scene of Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

Must-Try Dishes

  • Comté Cheese: This is a hard, unpasteurized cheese that is aged for at least four months. It has a nutty and slightly sweet flavor and is perfect for snacking or cooking.
  • Poulet de Bresse: This is a type of chicken that is raised in the nearby Bresse region. It is known for its delicate flavor and tender meat.
  • Jura Wine: The Jura region produces many delicious wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Savagnin. These wines are often aged in oak barrels and have a unique flavor.

Local Beverages

  • Absinthe: This strong, anise-flavored spirit was once banned in many countries due to its alleged hallucinogenic properties. However, it is now legal and is a popular local drink in the Jura region.
  • Vin Jaune: This is a unique wine that is aged for at least six years in oak barrels. It has a nutty and slightly oxidized flavor and is often drunk as an aperitif.
  • Jura Beer: There are several local breweries in the Jura Mountains that produce a variety of delicious beers. Some popular brands include Brasserie des Cimes and La Débauche.

Where to Stay in Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Hôtel des Lacs: This hotel is located on the shores of Lac de Chalain and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant with lake views.
  • Gîte de La Source Bleue: This charming guesthouse is located in a quiet area of Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne and has a beautiful garden.
  • Le Penaroyal: This hostel is located in the nearby town of Arbois and is perfect for budget travelers. It offers dorm rooms and private rooms, as well as a communal kitchen and lounge.

What to Buy in Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Comté Cheese: This delicious cheese is the perfect souvenir to bring home. It can be found at most local markets and specialty food shops.
  • Absinthe: If you’re a fan of strong alcohol, you might want to bring back a bottle of local absinthe.
  • Wood Products: The Jura Mountains are known for their woodworking traditions. You can find many beautiful and unique wood products, such as cutting boards and bowls, in local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is a small, rural village with a strong sense of community. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and there is a strong emphasis on respecting nature and the environment.

Best Time to Visit Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

The best time to visit Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne depends on your interests.

  • Spring and Summer: These are the best months for outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and biking.
  • Fall: This is a great time to visit if you’re interested in wine tasting and other autumn activities.
  • Winter: If you’re a fan of winter sports, such as skiing and snowboarding, the winter months are the best time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

Do:

  • Respect nature and the environment
  • Support local businesses
  • Try the local food and drink

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural surroundings
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions
  • Be loud and disruptive in residential areas

Safety and Health

Safety in Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is a very safe village. However, as with any rural area, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when hiking or exploring the wilderness.

Health in Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

There are no major health concerns in Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne. However, it’s always a good idea to travel with a basic first aid kit and make sure you have access to medical care if needed.

Getting to Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne: Transportation Options and Logistics

Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is a small village and is not easily accessible by public transport.

Airports Near Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

The closest airport to Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is Geneva Airport, which is located approximately 2 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

The closest bus station to Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is in the nearby town of Salins-les-Bains, which is about 15 km away.

Other Options

The best way to get to Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is by car. The village is located on the D472 road, which connects nearby towns and cities.

How to Get Around in Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne

The best way to get around Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is on foot or by bike. The village is small and easy to navigate, and there are many beautiful hiking and biking trails in the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to continue your adventure after Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne, here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Arbois: This charming town is known for its wine, cheese, and beautiful architecture.
  • Besançon: This city is home to many historical and cultural attractions, including a beautiful citadel and several museums.
  • Lons-le-Saunier: This town is located in the heart of the Jura region and is known for its beautiful architecture and delicious food and drink.

Conclusion

Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne is a beautiful and charming village that is perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, skiing, or simply relaxing in the French countryside, this village has something for everyone. So start planning your trip today and get ready to experience all that Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne has to offer.