The Bourgogne Bliss: Exploring Eastern France from Boulogne-Billancourt

Are you dreaming of exploring eastern France on your next road trip? If you're based in Boulogne-Billancourt, Île-de-France, you might be happy to know that Besançon, a beautiful town in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, is just a few hours away by car. But which route should you take? And how long will the journey be? Read on to find out!

The Straight Shot: A1 and A6, 403 km, 4h05

The fastest way to get to Besançon from Boulogne-Billancourt is to jump on the A1 and drive all the way to Lyon, where you'll switch to the A6 towards Dijon and then follow the signs to Besançon. This route is 403 km long and should take you around 4 hours and 5 minutes if you don't encounter any traffic or construction delays.

But wait, don't rush straight to your final destination – there are plenty of interesting places to stop along the way! If you're a history buff, you might want to make a detour to Compiegne, a charming town that played a key role in World War I and II. Don't miss the gorgeous Château de Compiegne, a royal palace built in the 18th century that boasts a stunning park. Foodies should definitely hit up Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, where you can taste some of the best vintages in France and nibble on local delicacies.

The Scenic Route: N19 and A36, 434 km, 5h51

If you have more time and want to enjoy some breathtaking views of the French countryside, consider taking the N19 and following it all the way to Besançon. This route is longer – 434 km – but also more picturesque, with rolling hills, quaint villages, and forests. You'll eventually merge onto the A36, a toll road that will take you to your destination in around 5 hours and 51 minutes.

Along this route, you can take a detour to the Jura Mountains and explore some of the most stunning natural landscapes in France. Don't miss the Cirque de Baume, a deep gash in the earth that's been carved by a river over millions of years, or the Lac de Chalain, one of the largest natural lakes in the country. You might also want to stop in Belfort, a city that's famous for its massive citadel and its history as a strategic fortress during the Franco-Prussian War.

The Leisurely Drive: N6 and D67, 416 km, 6h17

Finally, if you're in no rush and want to take your time to admire the sights, you can opt for the N6 and the D67, a winding road that will take you through the heart of Burgundy and Franche-Comté. This route is 416 km long and should take you around 6 hours and 17 minutes to complete.

Along this scenic route, you can stop in Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, and explore its charming cobblestone streets, its Gothic cathedral, and its famous mustard factory. You might also want to take a detour to Besançon's neighbor, Montbéliard, a town that's famous for its Christmas markets and traditional Alsatian architecture. If you're a fan of art, don't miss the Musée Courbet in Ornans, a charming village that was home to the famous painter Gustave Courbet.

No matter which route you choose, your road trip from Boulogne-Billancourt to Besançon is bound to be filled with memorable sights, sounds, and tastes. Don't rush, take your time, and savor the journey – after all, that's what road trips are all about!