Chapelle-des-Bois(France) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Chapeaurouge, the top boutique option is Le Clos des Châtaigniers, a charming countryside inn nestled in the heart of Doubs Department. Surrounded by oak forests and vineyards, it offers cozy rooms with local wood finishes and fireplace amenities. Guests enjoy homemade breakfasts featuring regional jams and fresh baguettes. The hotel also hosts stargazing nights and guided forest walks, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic French rural charm. Facilities include a small wellness area with herbal treatments sourced from local herbs. Nearby, the historic Church of Notre-Dame adds architectural depth to the village's character. Stay here for a peaceful retreat away from city noise.

The central district of Chapeaurouge is the most recommended area for lodging. Located near the Town Hall and Notre-Dame Church, it provides easy access to the weekly farmers’ market, traditional cafés, and artisan shops. This quiet, pedestrian-friendly zone is perfect for walking tours and evening strolls. Many family-run guesthouses offer personalized service and local insights. Staying here allows visitors to immerse in daily village life while enjoying proximity to scenic trails and cultural events throughout the year.

Visitors to Chapeaurouge should not miss the annual Chestnut Festival (Fête du Marron) held each autumn. The town transforms into a celebration of local cuisine, with stalls offering chestnut-based delicacies like chestnut pie and hot chestnut wine. Explore the 17th-century Heritage House Museum to learn about farming traditions and craftsmanship in the Doubs region. In the evenings, join the Village Storytelling Sessions, where elders share tales of Alpine legends and historical events passed down through generations.

Yes, Chapeaurouge is highly suitable for families. The town features child-friendly walking paths leading to the Châpeau Forest Nature Reserve, rich in wildlife and educational signage. Local farms offer hands-on experiences such as milking goats and pottery workshops. The Children’s Library hosts weekly storytime sessions and craft activities. Families can also enjoy seasonal festivals like the Spring Lantern Parade, which lights up the village with handmade lanterns—perfect for creating lasting memories.

Chapeaurouge is renowned for its Doubs chestnut cuisine. Must-try dishes include Chestnut Beef Stew (Boeuf à la Châtaigne) and Chestnut Cream Soup, both made with locally harvested chestnuts. Another highlight is the Walnut Honey Tart, crafted at the century-old Pâtisserie de l'Étang. Pair these with a glass of Doubs white wine for a full sensory experience. Visit the main street market on Sundays to sample freshly baked bread and warm pastries straight from the oven.

Despite being a small village, Chapeaurouge is well-connected. It lies about one hour from Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport via car or regional TER train from Lyon Part-Dieu station. The town has a central parking lot for visitors who drive, and bicycles are available for rent. Walking paths are clearly marked, and public transport runs regularly during peak seasons. For those preferring autonomy, GPS-guided maps are provided by several local accommodations to help explore surrounding hamlets and scenic viewpoints.

Yes, Chapeaurouge is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The Châpeau Forest to the south offers hiking trails through ancient oaks and wild blueberry thickets. In spring, the forest blooms with lilies and violet flowers. Along the Mère River, visitors can enjoy riverside picnics and gentle walks across wooden footbridges. Winter brings snow-covered trails ideal for cross-country skiing, with designated safe paths and warming huts along the way.

Chapeaurouge hosts several annual festivals. The most popular is the Spring Lantern Festival, where hand-painted lanterns illuminate the village streets each evening. In June, the Folk Music Festival takes place at the old mill site, featuring live performances by Alp-based ensembles. September sees the Artisan Market, showcasing local crafts such as ceramics, embroidery, and woodwork. Many vendors are part of multi-generational families, preserving traditional techniques passed down for decades.

Absolutely, Chapeaurouge is a dream for photographers. Capture golden-hour light on the stone cottages and Notre-Dame Church spire during sunset. Early mornings bring soft fog over the fields, ideal for landscape shots. The chestnut groves and Mère River pathways provide excellent opportunities for macro photography and nature portraits. During the Spring Lantern Festival, the illuminated village offers dramatic night photography scenes. Bring a tripod for long exposures of river reflections and starlit skies.

Yes, several hotels in Chapeaurouge provide complimentary guided tours. Le Clos des Châtaigniers organizes daily morning excursions to the ancient quarry ruins and underground wine cellars, complete with historical commentary. Guides explain geological formations, winemaking heritage, and local folklore. Some properties also supply detailed bicycle maps and walking guides highlighting hidden gems like rock art caves and abandoned bell towers, helping guests explore the region beyond the main routes.