Salins-les-Bains: Salt City of France
Located in Besancon, France, Salins-les-Bains is positioned at the foot of a deep valley where the Furieuse River flows through it. It is known to be a spa town and the salt producing center of Jura. Salins-les-Bains is historically known for their salt mines that were later on closed in 1962. Underground chambers and other heritage sites that still produce salt and gypsums continue to attract visitors from far and nearby places because of its historical essence. Some buildings are slowly being industrialized and preserved to be commonly used by the townspeople, some having historic roots.
Best Time to Visit
Summer, from June to August is the best time to visit Salins-les-Bains to experience comfortable and fine weather. However, to purchase affordable Salins-les-Bains hotels, early April to late May is a good alternative.
What to Do & Area Attractions
Exploring the salt mines of Salins-les-Bains is just a quarter of its historic attractions. The towers of Fort St. André and Fort Belin are both historic military structures that now give off a wonderful view of the town below. The Collegiale Saint-Anatoile is the town's most important church built in the 13th century, with its gothic façade and ornate windows. The Chapel of Notre-Dame Liberatrice is also a significant monument behind the town hall, stunningly beautiful for its unusual roof design and structure.
There are also nearby hotels that offer exemplary services. The Hôtel L'Edgar is a golf hotel that offers quality services and facilities and only a few miles from the salt mines. Hotel Des Deux Forts is a great choice for bed and breakfast that has a contemporary interior decoration, complete amenities, and complimentary car park.