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Baume-les-Dames

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City
—°4810
Baume-les-Dames (France)
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Practical info — Baume-les-Dames

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Explore the historic town center early in the morning before it gets busy to appreciate the architecture of the abbey.
  • The EuroVélo 6 cycle route passes right through here; renting a bike is the best way to see the Doubs valley.
  • Free parking is usually available near the river, a short walk from the center.
  • If you plan to hike the surrounding limestone cliffs, wear sturdy shoes as the paths can be uneven and steep.

🍽 Food

🍽
Comté and Cancoillotte

Look for a local fromagerie in the town center to taste authentic regional cheeses.

🍽
Fresh Trout

Try the locally caught trout at a traditional brasserie near the river.

🍽
Morteau Sausage

A smoked regional sausage, often served with potatoes in local bistros.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Weekly Market

Visit the local market on Place de la République for fresh produce and regional specialties.

🛍
Artisan shops

Look for small boutiques in the old town selling local crafts and souvenirs.

🧘
Doubs River Banks

Stroll along the river for a peaceful escape with views of the surrounding hills.

🧘
Belvédère de la Croix de Châtard

Hike up to this viewpoint for a sweeping panorama of the town and valley.

🧘
Abbey Courtyard

Relax in the quiet surroundings of the historic Benedictine abbey.

Highlights of 2026

4

Baume-les-Dames is a historic town tucked away in a dramatic meander of the Doubs River, located in the Doubs department of eastern France. Its name, meaning 'The Ladies' Cave,' refers to the prestigious Benedictine Abbey founded in the 5th century, which for centuries exclusively welcomed women from the high nobility. The abbey's architecture, along with the characterful Renaissance-style houses in the old town, reflects its long-standing cultural and religious influence. Surrounded by towering limestone cliffs known as 'Baumes,' the town is a natural amphitheater that attracts hikers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts. During the industrial era, Baume-les-Dames became known for its metalworking and printing industries. Culturally, it is famous for the 'Craquelin de Baume,' a traditional crunchy pastry that has been a local staple for generations. Today, it serves as a vital hub for river tourism along the Rhône-Rhine Canal and is a popular stop for cyclists on the EuroVelo 6 route, connecting Central Europe to the Atlantic coast.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C1251013182019151152
Rain mm856878689989829071928997

Geography

Population
5,759
Coordinates
47.35220, 6.36000

Facts

  • Area: 24.74 km².
  • Highest point: 607 meters above sea level.
  • The abbey was founded in the 5th century.
  • Located on the Dole–Belfort railway line.
  • Recognized as a 'Cité de Caractère'.
  • Distance to Besançon: 30 km.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Baume-les-Dames (8)

Sainte-Odile Abbey

This former 18th-century abbey is known for its classical facade and rich history as a religious center.

Saint-Martin Church⛪ religious

An impressive church with a prominent tower, housing valuable sacred artworks and offering a serene atmosphere.

Turret House🏺 historical

A characteristic Renaissance building in the old town, easily recognized by its elegant circular staircase tower.

Sous-Buen Viewpoint🎡 recreation

From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Doubs Valley and the historic town rooftops.

Chapelle du Saint-Sépulcre⛪ religious

Chapelle du Saint-Sépulcre is a local chapel and place of worship in Baume-les-Dames.

Église Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul⛪ religious

Église Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul is a place of worship located in Baume-les-Dames.

La Vierge du Choléra🌿 nature

La Vierge du Choléra is a scenic viewpoint located in Baume-les-Dames.

Belvédère Croix de Châtard🌿 nature

Belvédère Croix de Châtard is a viewpoint offering vistas over Baume-les-Dames.

Frequently asked questions

What makes Baume-les-Dames worth visiting?
Its photogenic location in the Doubs valley and the historical quarter with the abbey church.
Is the town good for cyclists?
Yes, the EuroVelo 6 cycle route runs directly along the Doubs canal.
Are there scenic viewpoints?
The 'Fente de Babre' gives a fantastic view over the valley.
Can you go rock climbing here?
Yes, it is a well-known climbing spot with over 400 routes on the limestone cliffs.
When is the weekly market?
A large market is held every first Saturday of the month.
Baume-les-Dames: where is it located?
Baume-les-Dames is located in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, France.
Baume-les-Dames: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sainte-Odile Abbey, Saint-Martin Church, Turret House.
Baume-les-Dames: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Baume-les-Dames: why is it worth visiting?
Baume-les-Dames is a historic town tucked away in a dramatic meander of the Doubs River, located in the Doubs department of eastern France.
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