Built atop the ancient Roman settlement of Ariolica, Pontarlier lies in the far east of France near the border with Switzerland. It was once famed for its production of absinthe until the spirit was banned in 1915 and the local distilleries began making a new type of pastis known as “Pontarlier”.
Things to do in Pontarlier
In the heart of Pontarlier is the Eglise Saint-Benigne, a centuries-old church that features a Comtois bell tower covered with glazed tiles. Step inside to see the chapel built to honour the victims of World War I and marvel at the stained glass windows created by Alfred Manessier. Also of note is the high altar designed by Irene Zack and a 15th-century wooden statue of the Virgin and Child.
One of Pontarlier’s most magnificent architectural landmarks is the Porte Saint-Pierre, a Classical-style gate that dates back to the 18th century. It was constructed according to the plans of royal engineer Jean-Claude Eleonor Le Michaud d'Arçon to commemorate the reconstruction of Pontarlier following a devastating fire. The Porte Saint-Pierre now stands as a symbol of the town.
A short drive south of Pontarlier is the Château de Joux, which dominates the Cluse de Pontarlier mountain pass. Originally built in the 11th century as a wooden structure, it was later fortified with a stone barracks and a moat. Today, the Château de Joux houses rare antique weapons and exhibits detailing the fortification’s role in defending the region over the centuries.
Getting around Pontarlier
Pontarlier is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Geneva and Geneva International Airport while Lyon is just under three hours away. Trains connect from destinations across France and Switzerland to the Pontarlier railway station and the town is small enough to explore on foot.