"Ornans Gem of the Loue Valley France" Ornans by Adagio1

Ornans Travel Guide: 4 reviews and 9 photos

A Unique Town

Lovely and secluded Ornans is situated on the Loue River and is a famous for its trout fishing. The population is between 4,000 and 5,000. The drive into Ornans is breathtaking with views of the Loue and craggy limestone canyons. Do try and use the many D roads that lead to Ornans

Stayawhile

This is not a town for large groups or someone wanting manufactured entertainment. The little town clings to the Loue river with many old houses embedded in the banks of the river which gives a surreal Venetian feel about the place without the crowds. Ornans is famous also for its inventor of the Vernier gauage and the painter Courbet. I love to wander across the bridges of Ornans an hour or so after sunrise and just on sunset where spectacular photo opportunities abound.
Unless you are into trout fishing I would suggest two nights in Ornans would be sufficient for the tourist that has other locations to see in a limited time frame. The Hotel De France, main street, is the place to stay if you enjoy good food and a provincial atmosphere. The two brothers who run the establishment are more inclined to discuss that night's menu than your room requirements. Splurge at the meal times you will not be disappointed. Your time here should be for absorbing the unique calm atmosphere and ambience of this wonderful village.

Last visit to Ornans: May 2005
Intro Updated Jan 25, 2010
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Reviews (1)

cuisine, provincial style, position Hotels (1)

Stayed there many times and always found it a very comfortable family run hotel. The restaurant service in impeccable,... more travel advice

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Comments (3)

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ATLC Feb 1, 2008 at 12:51 AM

Is this the link? You might like to add it to your tip: http://www.hoteldefrance-ornans.com/
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Adagio1 Jul 10, 2007 at 6:17 PM

Yes it does seems like only a few hundred people populate Ornans. The census figure I found showed 4,300 so they must include the surrounding countryside but not Besancon.
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mariev Jul 1, 2007 at 12:45 AM

There are not so many people here having visited Ornans. The surroundings are also nice for hikers, aonoeists and roc-climbers. But yes, i agree, no "manufactured entertainment" (for the best)