Situated at a major crossroads on the Central Plateau, CHAMPAGNOLE, an industrial town largely rebuilt after a major fire in 1798, holds little intrinsic interest for the passing visitor, with the exception of an archeological museum, 26 rue Baronne-Delfort (July & Aug daily except Tues 26pm; €2.30), above the tourist office, which displays an interesting array of Gallic and Roman artefacts found in the vicinity. However, the town does serve as a useful base for exploring the surrounding countryside, in particular the Forêt de la Joux, to the northeast.For central accommodation, try the Hôtel de la Londaine, 31 rue du Général-Leclerc (tel 03.84.52.06.69; under €30), or, for old-style grandeur, the Grand Hôtel Ripotot, 54 rue Maréchal-Foch (tel 03.84.52.15.45, fax 03.84.52.09.11; €3040), which is definitely the nicest hotel in town. The campsite, Camping de Boyse, is on rue Georges-Vallery (tel 03.84.52.00.32; June to mid-Sept). The tourist office is in an annexe of the Mairie at 26 rue Baronne-Delfort (MonFri 9amnoon & 26pm, Sat 9amnoon & 25pm; tel 03.84.52.43.67), and provides lots of information about exploring the surrounding forests and lakes, including Hiking and mountain-biking kits for €5 each. Pages in section ‘Champagnole’: Around Champagnole.
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