Background

La Maison du Comté: A Journey into Jura's Cheese Heritage

Discover the secrets of Comté cheese at this immersive museum in Poligny, the heart of France's Jura region. A sensory journey for cheese lovers!

4.5

La Maison du Comté in Poligny is a museum dedicated to Comté cheese, a cornerstone of French gastronomy with a history dating back to the 12th century. The museum offers an immersive experience into the world of Comté, from its production to its cultural significance.

A brief summary to La Maison du Comté

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience the museum and enjoy the Comté tasting.
  • Check the museum's website for seasonal hours and special events, such as cheese-making workshops.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to other attractions in Poligny, such as the Collégiale de Poligny or a walk through the town's historic center.
  • Consider exploring the Route du Comté to visit local farms and cheese producers.
  • The museum does not sell Comté cheese by the cut; however, they can direct you to local fruitières that do.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    La Maison du Comté is located at 1 Rue de la Maison du Comté, in Poligny. From the center of Poligny, such as the Place de la Collégiale, it's approximately a 10-15 minute walk. Head east on Rue du Collège, then turn right onto Rue de la Doye. Continue onto Route de Lons, and La Maison du Comté will be on your left. There are sidewalks along the route.

  • Public Transport

    The closest train station to La Maison du Comté is the Poligny train station. From the station, you can take a local bus or a taxi to the museum. Bus fare is approximately €2 [ESTIMATE]. A taxi ride would cost around €10-€15 [ESTIMATE].

  • Driving

    If driving, La Maison du Comté is located just off the Route de Lons (D471) at 1 Rue de la Maison du Comté. From the A39 autoroute, take the Poligny exit. Follow signs for Poligny, then look for signs for La Maison du Comté. There is parking available on-site. Parking is free.

Unlock the Best of La Maison du Comté

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about La Maison du Comté

La Maison du Comté, located in Poligny, the unofficial capital of Comté cheese, is a must-visit destination for cheese lovers and anyone interested in French culinary heritage. This modern museum, which opened in May 2021, offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of Comté cheese, the most popular Appellation d'Origine Protégée (AOP) cheese in France. The museum's architecture itself is noteworthy, featuring a contemporary design inspired by traditional farms in the Haut-Doubs and Haut-Jura regions. The building is divided into three distinct structures, representing the three key players in Comté production: milk producers, cheese makers, and affineurs (maturers). Inside, visitors embark on a sensory journey through the world of Comté. The exhibits cover all aspects of Comté production, from the pastures where Montbéliarde and French Simmental cows graze to the cheese cellars where the cheese is aged to perfection. Interactive displays, poetic films, and sensory games engage visitors of all ages, making the museum accessible and enjoyable for families. The tour culminates in a Comté tasting, where visitors can sample different ages of Comté and learn to identify the subtle flavors and aromas that characterize this exceptional cheese. The museum also provides information on the history of Comté, its production methods, and its cultural significance in the Jura region. Poligny itself is a charming town with a rich history and a strong culinary tradition. As the capital of Comté, it's home to numerous cheese shops, restaurants, and the École Nationale d'Industrie Laitière et des Biotechnologies (ENILBIO), a renowned dairy school. A visit to La Maison du Comté is a perfect starting point for exploring the Route du Comté, a scenic route that takes visitors to farms, fruitières (cheese-making cooperatives), and cellars throughout the Jura region.

Popular Experiences near La Maison du Comté

Popular Hotels near La Maison du Comté

Select Currency