Doubs is a remarkably appealing destination. Bordering Switzerland, it is one of the most industrialised regions in the country, thanks to its automotive, metallurgy, food and watchmaking sectors. The Olympic torch will start its journey in the department from Pontarlier, a town near Switzerland on a plateau 800 metres above sea level. Next, it will head to the Chaux-Neuve ski jumping hills, which host competitions year-round.

The torch will then visit Maîche, the capital of the Franche-Comté horse breed and the starting point for many hikes, before diving into Poudrey Chasm in Étalans, the biggest chasm in Europe. The adventure will continue in Montbéliard, with its colourful facades and romantic château, and then in Baume-les-Dames, a small town with a lot of charm. After that, it will be time to head to Besançon, the prefecture of Doubs.

Celebrations in Besançon

The festivities will end in Besançon, a green city and 2018 French Biodiversity Capital whose Fortifications of Vauban are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Olympic torch will display the city's heritage throughout its visit, passing by the house where renowned writer Victor Hugo was born on 26 February 1802. A richly illustrated exhibition now shares all there is to know about his struggles and achievements.

The torch will then visit the Time Museum, which tells the story of watchmaking in the heart of the prestigious Renaissance palace. After crossing the Doubs River, the torch will head to the Parc de la Gare d'Eau. This vast green esplanade on the meanders of the Doubs will host the end-of-day ceremony and the lighting of the cauldron.

Celebration venue info

Come and celebrate the passing of the Olympic flame in Besançon !

The celebration site is free and open to all from 3.30pm to 7.45pm at the following address: PARC DE LA GARE D'EAU,25000 BESANÇON

A festive programme open to all awaits you, including :

• events organised by the local authorities: sport, music, shows, etc.
• stands run by the Relay of the Flame sponsors:
  • Coca-Cola will be providing a musical and festive atmosphere
  • Banque Populaire will be giving the public the chance to try out water sports
  • Caisse d'Epargne will be dedicating its stand to basketball and handball
• a show organised by the sponsors on the sports slab from 6 p.m.
• 7.20pm: the arrival of the last torchbearer and the lighting of the Olympic cauldron, a moment not to be missed!

Note: a giant screen, a host and a DJ will also be on hand to get the public in the mood for the Torch Relay!