Mention Jura around an oenophile and youre bound to elicit a sly, knowing grin.
Located off the beaten path between Burgundy and the Swiss border, Jura is Frances smallest wine region.
With just 2,000 hectares of vines, its unusual and often natural wines are cult-followed worldwide.
The hilltop village of Château-Chalon in the Jura.
For a walkable home base, the town of Arbois is the place to be.
This luxury hotel in the Port-Lesney countryside offers a natural pool, a Michelin-starred restaurant, and a relaxingCaudaliespa.
The team is committed to using local ingredients from nearby farms.

Photo: Courtesy of Maison Zugno
Even the dishware comes from a local artisan: Besancon ceramicist Sylviane Humbert.
Fresh ingredients reign at this riverside restaurant in Arbois.
Local mushrooms, fish, and vegetables are artfully combined for dishes that look as beautiful as they taste.

Photo: Yvan Moreau / Courtesy of Carmel 1643
This casual wine bar is equally cherished by locals, visitors, and winemakers alike.
Importantly, they are also known for being difficult to reach.
Thus,degustationsin the Jura are a choose your own adventure affair.

Photo: Yvan Moreau / Courtesy of Chateau de Germigney
Ask your hotel, ask around townthe thrill of the hunt is all part of the fun.
For a more straightforward experience, you could schedule a visit toFumey ChatelainorTissot.
Flanked by theParc Naturel Regional du Haut-Jura, Jura offers a hike for every skill level and desire.
A street in the medieval old town of Château-Chalon.
For a short, scenic trip, visit Reculee des Planches.
It begins in the town of Baume-des-Messiers and passes the famous Cascades des Tufs waterfall along its serene trail.
For a longer journey, head to Cascades du Herisson, a there-and-back trail that passes seven stunning waterfalls.
Of course, youll want to bring plenty of sustenance.
After a few days of wining and dining, you may find yourself in need of a detox.
Hit reset with a trip to one of the regions many thermal baths likeLes Rives Sauvagesin Malbuisson.