If travel is synonymous with making unique memories and ticking off quirky bucket list activities, we’ve got a gem for those who love European history. The Logis Hôtel l’Arbezie Franco-Suisse offers an exceptional experience for tourists who wish to toe the line between two neighbouring countries literally. Built directly on the border between France and Switzerland in the Jura Mountains, the hotel is near Les Rousses and the Canton of Vaud, and just a few kilometres from Geneva.

The international line runs right through the building, separating two beds in the honeymoon suite. You can go to sleep in France and wake up in Switzerland! The hotel dates back to the 1860s and even played a role in WWII history, as people could legally take refuge upstairs on the Swiss side.

A perfect getaway spot for nature lovers and adventure junkies, the hotel is a stone’s throw from hiking trails, Lake Les Rousses, the ski slopes in the area, and iconic locations like La Dôle, Fort des Rousses, and Espace des Mondes Polaires. Whether you are visiting during summer or winter, there are endless activity options like cross-country skiing, mountain biking, golf, paragliding, and snowshoeing to keep you and your loved ones entertained. You can also visit the authentic and exotic villages of Haut-Jura for a culturally immersive experience.

hotel arbez The hotel has cozy rooms, brasserie and a restaurant featuring French and Swiss cuisine full of local and seasonal specialties. (Source: Instagram/@francetravelers)
How did this hotel come to be?

Hôtel l’Arbezie Franco-Suisse’s construction is built upon the history of a dispute between France and Switzerland over Vallée des Dappes, south of La Cure. The valley offered an accessible military route, and possession would provide a significant military advantage. Initially annexed by France, it was returned to the Swiss, but the French kept asking for it back. Finally, in 1862, the two countries signed a treaty, with France agreeing to offer Switzerland a sizable portion of their territory in exchange for the valley.

Even though La Cure was entirely within French borders, the new boundary cut the village in half. However, the treaty stipulated that all existing establishments were to be left alone, which gave a local businessman the idea to build a three-story building on that plot of land, which is known today as Hotel Arbez.

The hotel has cosy rooms, a brasserie and a restaurant serving French and Swiss cuisine, featuring local and seasonal specialities. A private parking, a bed and breakfast and free Wi-Fi make it an ideal option for those looking for a romantic, family or business stay.