Region
A landscape of the great north
Standing at an altitude of 1000 metres, the Franches-Montagnes and Bellelay region form a plateau with an authentic landscape, straddling the Conton of Jura and the Bernese Jura. With its vast pastures dotted with deep pine forests, this region is a nature lover’s paradise and the ideal place for outdoor activities.
This region is the birthplace of the Tête de Moine and the cradle of the Freiberger horse – the only breed native to Switzerland. Numerous equestrian activities are offered here. It also has a rich watchmaking heritage, as it was in this area that many peasant watchmakers contributed to the development of the watchmaking industry in the Jura Arc. Among these typical landscapes full of history stands the hamlet of Bellelay and its famous abbey dating from 1140, which can still be admired and visited today. Here, you can discover the historic Tête de Moine cheese factory and trace the history of the famous cheese.
Bellelay and the Franches-Montagnes will delight young and old alike with activities, events and restaurants.
Featured product
Tête de Moine AOP: when cheese becomes lace
Tête de Moine AOP is a very old cheese from the village of Bellelay. It is unique not only in its taste, but also in its cylindrical shape, which is enjoyed in very fine rosettes. Tête de Moine AOP is a high quality product, produced by traditional methods in village cheese dairies.
Additional information
Other products to discover in the region
In addition to Tête de Moine AOP, many other cheeses and speciality meats are produced in the region, with unique know-how and an unrivalled passion. Come and taste them!
Prepare your stay!
Come and explore the region of Bellelay and the Franches-Montagnes!
Taste its cheesy delicacies, gallop through its green landscapes and learn more about its historical watchmaking.
Geographic location
Regional actors
