Le France is located in Villers-le-Lac, a scenic commune right along the border of France and Switzerland. Surrounded by Borgogne's beautiful mountains and rivers, the property's a fantastic choice for accommodations when visiting the region. Though very much a modern establishment, it has well-preserved 19th-century aesthetics that create a charming rural ambiance. Hotel owner Hugues Droz inherited the hotel from his father and grandfather, and he intends to live up to their legacy. As an esteemed chef, he also leads the on-site restaurant, providing sumptuous feasts using the region's finest ingredients.
8, Place M. Cupillard, 25130 Villers-le-Lac, France
Chef Hugues Droz is passionate about continuing the family business passed down to him by his father and grandfather. Nestled in the Haut-Doubs Mountains of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, the quaint yet lovely hotel dating back to the 19th century has served travelers for three generations, providing amazing food and comfortable beds. Over the years, the hotel has transformed and modernized to keep up with trends. They have since added a wellness center that offers Swedish massages and a sauna for destressing and detoxing.
Design and Architecture
Despite the modernizations Le France has undergone, there are still plenty of classic features to find at the hotel. Rooms and suites still have timbers and planks not just as decor but as part of the fixtures and supports. Similarly, the restaurant has fireplaces and a sleek wood finish that creates a vintage vibe that calls back to the 19th and 20th centuries.
As part of modernizing the hotel, some rooms provide wheelchair-friendly bathrooms. These come equipped with raised toilets, grab bars for support, and lowered sinks for easier reach.
With a resume featuring several awards as well as esteemed job experiences, Chef Hugues Droz is indeed the right person to lead Le France's signature restaurant. His philosophy encourages a balance of contrasts, especially when it comes to flavor. There's also an emphasis on creativity and tradition. Aside from delectable gourmet cuisine, the restaurant has a cellar full of vintages sourced from local producers.
Cultural and Outdoor Experiences
With Le France being situated in the charming commune of Villers-le-Lac, guests at the hotel can easily access the region's attractions as well as try all sorts of outdoor adventures. Lac des Brenets and the Doubs River provide opportunities for boating, fishing, and even ice-skating during winter. The Moulins souterrains du Col-des-Roches is a cave system with a museum in the neighboring Swiss town of Le Locle. Those who would like to stay on the French side of the border can instead visit Remonot and see its underground chapel carved into the cliffside.
Other Celebrations
For guests planning to celebrate a private affair such as a birthday or anniversary, Le France's signature restaurant has spaces and venues for small celebrations. If you're interested, reservations can be made through their official website.
Exhibits of watch and clock parts from local traditional watchmakers (2-minute walk)
Underground museum in a set of natural and artificial caves (7-minute drive)
12th-century abbey with Romanesque and Gothic architecture (25-minute drive)
The nearest airport to Le France is Dole–Jura Airport (DLE), 102 minutes away by car.
The nearest railway to Le France is Morteau Station, a 7-minute drive away.