France: Where to Camp in Eastern of France

Although possibly not as popular as some other regions of France, the Eastern regions have a great deal to offer for those seeking a camping or self catering holiday in France. In this article we will look at the regions of Rhone Alps, French Comte, and Alsace Lorraine.

Rhone Alps is where France shares its border with Switzerland. You can ski all year round and bathe in warm lake waters. The region features magnificent mountain ranges which include Mont Blanc, the tallest mountain in the whole of Europe. Skiing is a major pastime of the region, though there are also wonderful old villages and architecture. Renowned for its mineral waters, Rhone Alps includes Evian les Bains which is the source of much of the mineral water consumed in the UK. The region is famous for its cuisine and its wine that hails from the Rhône Valley and Beaujolais.

Moving northwards we come to Franche Comte with its varied landscapes. The region includes the Jura Mountains on the northern edge of the Alps and famous for cross-country skiing. The region also has vast reaches of rolling hills and valleys. The region features some very special wines including Vin Jaune, a yellow Savagnin wine which can be up to 15% alcohol and with an exquisite sherry like flavour. It should be kept in the bottle for ten years before drinking. It is supposed to go well with chicken. Cuisine in the region is heavily influence by the Swiss with fondues and dried beef being typical examples.

Moving further north we reach the rich woods and forests of Alsace Lorraine. This is France Germany, and is heavily ensconced in German influence. Although we have called Alsace Lorraine a single region, and it is often so regarded, it is legally two separate regions. At one time it belonged to Germany. Geographically the region features lakes and mountains plus large sprawling forests containing many holiday parks. Architecturally the buildings resemble those of ancient Germany. The cuisine is also typically German in its influence with Sauerkraut and spicy sausages. That strange dish Quiche Lorraine, that combines custard, meat and pastry, hails from here.