Prémanon walks

Explore the surroundings of Prémanon. From the Belvédère des Maquisards, above the Morez cluse, to the coolness of the leat de la Chaille gorges, this is a fairly easy and varied route with a mix of forest, geology and history.

Fifteenth stage of the Échappée Jurassienne. In the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, this stage will quickly take you to the highest point, the Belvédère des Dappes. This is followed by a crossing of the Forêt du Massacre, rich in exceptional flora and fauna, with varied landscapes alternating between thick forests and open valleys. You will also discover some curiosities and pretty summer chalets. Enjoy this beautiful forest, taking care not to stray from the marked paths and trails to preserve the tranquillity of the area! From the Combe à la Chèvre and its tall gentians, you will reach the village of Lajoux, home to the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park.

First stage: From Les Rousses to Lake Constance via the Jura ridges. After passing through La Cure, you will enter Switzerland and reach Saint-Cergue. A road will take you through the Jura pastures to the ruins of the Oujon convent. From Les Frasses, a steep forest path leads to a panoramic viewpoint. The climb continues through enchanting scenery, between flower-filled meadows and chalets, towards Crêt de la Neuve, the highest point of the stage. Here you can enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Geneva, the Vaud Alps and Mont Blanc. The hike ends in the Vaud Jura Park, along a pretty forest path leading to the Col de Marchairuz (1,446 m).

This exceptional hike links Les Rousses, in the heart of the French Haut-Jura, to the city of Constance (Konstanz), on the shores of the lake of the same name, following the ridges of the Swiss Jura. A demanding but magnificent 405 km route that crosses the most iconic landscapes of the Jura mountains: high-altitude pastures, deep forests, alpine viewpoints, villages steeped in history and forgotten military ruins.

A family trail starting from Les Rousses, offering views over the peat bog on the edge of Lac des Rousses.

Les Rousses is a commune in the Jura department. Located in the Haut-Jura, on the border with Switzerland, it is the main commune of the Les Rousses ski resort, a major downhill skiing area comprising Les Rousses, Bois-d’Amont, Lamoura and Prémanon. The fort is open to visitors. A lovely forest walk along pretty paths, with a short stretch along a road and a beautiful waterfall.

This circular route, entirely within Switzerland, takes you through the beautiful Jura valleys near the resort of Les Rousses. After climbing up to Le Noirmont, you’ll reach Mont Sâla via the Creux du Croue. If the weather is clear, there are magnificent views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. The route is not particularly difficult, but the climb up to Le Noirmont is quite steep and quite long. This round trip, with the descent via the same route, is in fact a lovely hike in its own right (allow for an elevation gain of around 500 metres).

This short route allows you to discover Lac des Rousses, the only lake in Franche-Comté located in the basin that flows towards Switzerland and the Rhine. It is surrounded by peat bogs and you can discover remarkable flora and fauna . In summer, you can swim in its clear, shallow waters, enjoy the water sports centre or contemplate the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, and in winter, watch the skaters and iceboats when the lake is frozen .

Without doubt, the shortest path up to the summit of La Dôle (1677m altitude) from the French side of the border. In good weather, the views are breathtaking and go on for over 250km: from the Swiss Alps to Mont Blanc and on to the Vanoise and the Ecrins, all of this with plunging views down over Geneva and its lake.

This route respects the work of the piste groomers in winter. It is a magnificent walk which, from the arrival at the Col de Porte, allows you to admire the view of Lake Geneva and the Alps, including Mont Blanc, for the rest of the route.

This beautiful hike will take you to the summit of La Dôle at an altitude of 1,677 metres, where you can enjoy breathtaking views. A steep path through the mountain pastures will lead you to this unmistakable peak with its dome housing the Geneva airport radar. On the descent, you will no doubt see herds of chamois frolicking in the scree below the summit ridge. The rest of the route takes you along dirt tracks, roads and grassy paths over much less rugged terrain, but often offering magnificent views.

In the vicinity of La Greffière, I suggest you climb to the summit of La Dôle and walk around it. Along the way, there are magnificent landscapes to discover, and with a bit of luck, you may even spot some chamois.

One of many routes to reach this distinctive summit with its radar station visible from anywhere in the Lake Geneva basin. Magnificent panorama from the Eiger to the Écrins, via Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva (orientation table). Chamois galore for early risers, rarer during the day due to high visitor numbers. Marked route, also accessible in winter with snowshoes or cross-country skis, with a few variations.

A walk through unspoilt nature, across meadows, woods and scree slopes, following beautiful valleys with views of the Alps. The highlight of this walk is, of course, the Creux du Croue, a deep and magnificent depression.

A lovely circular walk starting from the Givrine train stop on the Nyon–Saint-Cergues–Morez line. A gentle stroll through the pastures of the Swiss Jura, a stone’s throw from the French border, which presents no particular difficulty. Many sections are tarmac-surfaced, but you can walk on the short grass at the side of the path at any time.

A beautiful hike across the Swiss peaks bordering the frontier, offering spectacular views of Lake Geneva, the Lake Geneva basin and Mont Blanc, weather permitting. A steep climb takes you to the magnificent site of the Creux du Croue; continuing the ascent, you reach the summit of the Noirmont des Francais, and further on, the Noirmont. A long descent through the ski slopes will take you to the other side of the mountain, where you’ll begin a long climb through the mountain pastures. After passing several farms, a short detour to Mont Sâla will reward you with a wonderful panorama. After a brief stop at the curious Creux de la Neige, the return journey halfway up the slope, passing various farms, will offer you views of Lac des Rousses and the village of Bois d'Amont.

Mont Sala offers remarkable views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, particularly its highest peak.Important note mentioned by a hiker: this route is located in an area regulated by the Federal District of Le Noirmont; in winter, only marked trails are authorised in order to preserve wildlife, so access to Crêt des Danses and summit 1515 is prohibited.

This route, starting from Morez, will take you around the banks of the Bienne and its Trou Bleu, as well as the Saillard Viaduct, crossing two Himalayan-style footbridges. Information boards are placed along the route. ⚠️ The second footbridge (2) is closed until further notice. It is still possible to follow the out-and-back route (S/E) › (1) › (2) › (1) › (S/E) to enjoy the forest along the River Bienne and the Trou Bleu.

From Morez, I suggest a lovely route overlooking the Bienne Valley, mainly through woodland, with a few scenic viewpoints. The length of the route and a few steep slopes are the main challenges (see the Practical Information section).

Open from 1 December to 30 March - subject to the opening of the Vattay Nordic Centre This hike on the Jura plateau, in a vast area dedicated to Nordic activities, takes us to the summit of La Gélinotte, where the view of the Alps and Mont Blanc is absolutely superb. The signage (purple stakes and signposts) is very well done.A very beautiful route in the Vattay area, crossing the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve (you must comply with the regulations in force). There is an admission charge to access the Vattay site.

Open from 1 December to 30 March - subject to the opening of the Vattay Nordic Centre A beautiful route in the Vattay area, on a groomed and marked purple trail, accessible with children and crossing the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve (you must comply with the regulations in force). There is a charge to access the Vattay site.

Open from 1 December to 30 March - subject to the opening of the Vattay Nordic Centre A beautiful route in the Vattay area, crossing the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve (you must comply with the regulations in force). There is an admission charge to access the Vattay site. This route is groomed and marked in purple. It is accessible with children.

Morbier forms part of the cultural and historical region of Franche-Comté. The village is renowned for its eponymous cheese, its cross-country skiing area and its clock-making industry. Indeed, around 1660, the Mayet brothers crafted their first clocks in this village and, in the 19th century, Morbier, along with Morez, was the capital of Comtois clock-making. The village of Morbier overlooks the Morez gorge and forms part of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park.

Leaving the village and crossing the woods via the Sentier des Amoureux trail, you will discover Lake Lamoura, set in lush green countryside punctuated by the red hues of the surrounding peat bog, where the waters of the highest natural lake in the Jura mountains glisten. The trail goes around the lake. A wooden deck allows you to cross the wetlands and bog without damaging these fragile environments.

The walk starts from the centre of Lamoura and enters the small Combe d'Arbey, divided into two parts by a wooded ridge. This rocky ridge separates the route into two distinct parts: the outward journey is on the eastern slope and the return journey is on the other side, along the cross-country ski trail.

A lovely circular walk passing through the Crêt Pela (the highest point in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region and the Jura department). It offers varied scenery, including walks through typical forests and the open landscapes of the Combe du Lac, as well as a stunning view over a succession of mountain ranges stretching as far as the Swiss Alps. Please note: theroute is closed from 15 December to 30 June between (5) and (8) to ensure the preservation of these forests, which provide a habitat for many protected species in the massif: capercaillie, hazel grouse, pygmy owls, Eurasian lynx, etc.See here.

A gentle walk covering a good distance but with very little elevation gain. Feeling the icy crust of the snow crack in the morning under the weight of our first steps is pure bliss, a blank canvas that we delight in scribbling on with our eager snowshoes.

Short, easy hike, mostly through forest, leading to La Vigoureuse (1,335 m) with views of the Valserine and Mont Blanc (on a clear day). On the way back, opportunity to swim in Lake Lamoura.

A beautiful route offering magnificent views over Lake Lamoura and the Serra ski resort. Part of the route is in the Haut Jura APPB area, see practical information.

Offers an unforgettable view of Lake Geneva, Geneva and its water jet, and Mont Blanc in the background.

Open from 1 December to 30 March A lovely walk through the forest in the nature reserve leading to a viewpoint offering views of the Alps, Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva. Hiking in the nature reserve - Dogs not allowed - Most of the route is located in a wildlife quiet zone, so it is mandatory to follow the markings.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. This easy-to-access, varied trail, dotted with natural curiosities, enters a preserved forest. It then leads to the Turet viewpoint for a spectacular panorama of Gex, the Lake Geneva plain, Mont Blanc and the surrounding ridges. Starting from the Col de la Faucille, this family hike offers a rejuvenating immersion in nature. The biodiversity here is remarkable. After a gradual, gentle climb, the Turet viewpoint reveals an exceptional panorama of Gex, the Lake Geneva plain and, on a clear day, the majestic Mont Blanc. The return journey follows the same route. In winter and spring, this area is subject to special restrictions, which are essential for the preservation of sensitive species (access is limited between December and June, see regulations). Please note that dogs are strictly prohibited, even on a lead, throughout the year.

A short walk accessible to younger children, which quickly leads to a magnificent viewpoint over Geneva, the Salève and the majestic Mont Blanc. This hike, accessible from April to November, is ideal for a short outing to admire the landscape from the Col de la Faucille. The route alternates between stony paths and forest trails. At the end, the Redoute viewpoint offers breathtaking views of Geneva, the Salève and the Mont Blanc massif. On a clear day, the panorama extends to the Swiss Alps, offering a unique spectacle at sunrise and sunset.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions This circular route to the ridges offers one of the most beautiful panoramic views of the Alps, including Mont Blanc, as well as the entire Lake Geneva region and the Jura.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions This is one of the most beautiful trails in the Haute Chaîne du Jura, offering a hike that largely follows the ridge line of the massif and allowing you to enjoy sublime views of the Alps. The route starts from the tourist office at the Col de la Faucille, climbs through the forest on a pleasant and varied trail, sometimes crossing the ski slopes. When passing through the Crozat mountain pasture, be careful not to approach the dogs and their herd. Finally, at 1,668 metres, the summit of Colomby de Gex offers a beautiful panorama of the Lake Geneva basin and the Alps. Along the route, the landscape is strongly marked by geology: glacial erosion, marine fossils, etc.

A superb hike, easy to follow (excellent signposting), with no particular difficulties, well worth doing for the magnificent panoramic views it offers over most of the route.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. The Petit Montrond hike is a must-do, offering breathtaking views considered to be among the most beautiful in Europe. The trail climbs through woodland and open areas where you will find picnic tables. From the Col de la Faucille, a staircase with 419 steps leads to the summit of Petit Montrond at 1,540 metres, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Lake Geneva plain, the Alps and Mont Blanc. The descent is via the same route, offering a different perspective on the surrounding landscape.

A walk through the Marais forest, taking in a vantage point, the Roche Devant, overlooking the Bellefontaine valley.

From the Col de la Faucille, a beautiful hike to one of the highest peaks in the Jura. Superb views of the Alps and Mont Blanc.

There is little elevation gain and lots of forest for this walk, which is recommended in summer on the Jura plateau.

This is a circular route without great difficulty that takes you through the pretty mountain pastures around the village of Lajoux, with beautiful views of Lake Lamoura and the Jura mountain range. The route can easily be lengthened or shortened thanks to the many trails in the area.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to there being no snow. The section from Mijoux to the Refuge de la Loge is the first stage of the six-day hiking tour “La GTJ from Mijoux”. The GR® 9 enters the Ain department via Mijoux, before following the spectacular ridges of the Monts-Jura, passing through the Crêt de la Neige, the highest point of the massif. It then descends towards Bellegarde-sur-Valserine, crosses the Retord plateau and climbs the Grand Colombier. The trail continues its route to Culoz and the Rhône Valley, before leaving the Ain to reach Savoie and continuing southwards. Part of the route passes through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations:Dogs are not permitted, even on a lead. Camping in tents is also prohibited. Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to there being no snow. The GR® 9 enters the Ain department via Mijoux, before following the spectacular ridges of the Monts-Jura, passing through the Crêt de la Neige, the highest point of the massif. It then descends towards Bellegarde-sur-Valserine, crosses the Plateau de Retord, and then crosses the Grand Colombier. The trail continues its route to Culoz and the Rhône Valley, before leaving the Ain to reach Savoie and continuing southwards. Part of the route passes through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations. Dogs are prohibited, even on a lead, as is camping in tents. Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 December to 30 March. The circular Golf Loop is a walk accessible to all, starting from Mijoux. It is varied, with coniferous forest, beautiful expanses at the end of the golf course, all accompanied by the gentle sound of water flowing from the river.A sumptuous walk to discover the Valserine with the magic of snow-covered landscapes.The trail can be used with snowshoes or on foot.It is accessible for families, with sledges and children.This route can only be done in winter when there is snow and is marked in purple.

Open from 1 April to 30 November - subject to snow conditions The second stage of the 3-day, 2-night Crêts en Combes hiking tour. Starting from Lélex, this circular route combines the main GTJ route with the suggested alternative via Mijoux and the Col de la Faucille. The crossing of the Hautes-Combes jurassiennes, the Valserine valley and the crests of the Haute Chaine du Jura promise breathtaking landscapes. On one side, the view overlooks the ridges, on the other, it overlooks Lake Geneva and the Alps. In the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and partly in the Haute Chaîne Nature Reserve, the hike takes place in a preserved natural area. The trail is marked with red and whiteGR®® signs.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. From Mijoux to the Refuge de la Loge via the Haute Chaîne: second stage of the two-day "Le balcon du Léman"hiking tour. An exceptional route through the highest peaks of the Jura mountains and the wild landscapes of the Haut-Jura plateau, with spectacular panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the Alps from the highest peaks of the Jura mountain range. These wild spaces full of surprises and wonders will make this multi-day hike unforgettable. Part of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations:Dogs are not allowed, even on a leash, and camping in tents is also prohibited.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November – subject to snow conditions. From Mijoux to the Refuge de la Loge via the Haute Chaîne: the third stage of the four-day multi-day hike “La Valserine enchanteresse”.From the enchanting Valserine to the summit of the Jura, this route through the high plateaus and ridges of the Jura offers magical views of the Alps from the Jura Mountains. A journey of mystery, magic and discovery…Part of the route passes through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations: dogs are prohibited, even when kept on a lead, as is camping in tents.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Set off on a crossing of the Haut-Jura between Mijoux and Chézery-Forens through varied landscapes of valleys, peaks and forests. Over three days, you will travel along the Jura ridges, passing by the Grand Mont Rond, the Crêt de la Neige and the Reculet, with magnificent views of Mont Blanc and the Alps. This crossing takes you to the heart of the Haute Chaîne du Jura, for an authentic experience in the heart of nature. As you will be self-sufficient in terms of food, remember to bring your own supplies so that you can enjoy this adventure to the full.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. Three-day crossing of the Haut-Jura, from Mijoux to Chézery-Forens, via the Jura ridges and the peaks of Grand Mont Rond, Crêt de la Neige and Reculet, with magnificent views of Mont Blanc and the Alps. Self-sufficient hike. Protected area: part of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Dogs and tent camping are prohibited. Please respect these rules to preserve this exceptional environment.

Open from 1 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. From Lélex to Mijoux via the Haute Chaîne:second stage of the two-day hiking tour "On the roof of the Jura mountains". From the wild Valserine valley to the balcony of Lake Geneva, this route immerses you in the authenticity of the Haut-Jura. As you cross the Hautes Combes, you will be struck by the raw beauty of the wide open spaces, the silence of the deep forests and the open horizon of the plateaus. The trail gradually climbs, revealing exceptional panoramic views of Mont Blanc and the entire Alpine range. A life-size immersion in a land of traditions and high-altitude landscapes.Please note – Protected areaPart of the route crosses the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to specific regulations:Dogs are not permitted, even on a lead.Camping in tents is prohibited.Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.

Above Bellefontaine lies the Bois de Chaux Mourant forest. From the Roche Devant viewpoint, you can see the Risoux massif.

The shores of Lake Bellefontaine with a possible detour to the La Roche Bernard viewpoint (2 km round trip) to continue along the shores of Lake Mortes followed by the stream, village and forest of the same name.

Open from 15 December to 30 March. The Nicode trail, located in the authentic village of Mijoux, is ideal for walking and getting some fresh air. It forms a circular route along the edge of the Valserine. A sumptuous walk to discover the Valserine with the magic of snow-covered landscapes.The trail can be used for several activities: snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, walking.Accessible for families, with sledges and children. This route can only be used in winter when there is snow and is marked in purple.

From Bellefontaine, located at an altitude of 1,000 metres in the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, straddling France and Switzerland in the Risoux Massif, you will discover exceptional panoramic views from La Roche Bernard (1,290 metres) and La Roche Champion, over the Val de Mouthe, the lake plateau and the Mont Noir forest. The route climbs 300 metres and requires a good level of fitness.

Fourteenth stage of the Échappée Jurassienne. For this stage, you will begin your adventure in Bellefontaine, a picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Jura. The hike will take you through the heights of the town of Morez and across the Bienne Valley, where you can admire spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, you will reach Les Rousses, a welcoming town with authentic charm. Don't miss a visit to the Fort des Rousses, an impressive historical site that also houses the Comté cheese cellars, where you can discover how this renowned local cheese is made. From there, you will continue your descent to the Bief de la Chaille, a peaceful and enchanting place. The hike ends at the La Grenotte lodge in Prémanon, an ideal place to rest and enjoy the surrounding serenity.

Open from 16 April to 30 November, subject to snow conditions. A challenging and immersive hike to the summit of La Dôle (1,677 m). From Le Fleutron, the route alternates between deep forests, open ridges and high-altitude pastures. After crossing the French-Swiss border, you will reach one of the iconic peaks of the Swiss Jura, offering a 360° panorama of Lake Geneva, the Alps and Mont Blanc. This demanding but spectacular route crosses unspoilt natural areas in the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park and the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. Dogs are not allowed, even on a lead. Please respect the regulations in force to preserve this remarkable environment (see the practical information section).

On a 9.5 km route around the lake, three separate interpretation stations allow you to discover this natural site in Grandvaux. To be done on foot, with good walking shoes or snowshoes when there is enough snow.

An easy hike covering varied landscapes of pastures, forests and lakeshores, with two viewpoints offering beautiful views of the Jura plateau.

Surrounded by Sala and Noiremont summits, this hike that allows you to explore Swiss forests and pastures. You'll need two cars for this straight route hike.

This Franco-Swiss route offers beautiful views of the Orbe valley from the Roche du Creux viewpoint on the border.

Sixteenth stage of the Échappée Jurassienne. For this last stage, you will reach Septmoncel before beginning a long descent along the Chemin des Moines to the Gorges du Flumen. Walking along the Flumen, Grosdar and Tacon rivers, you will arrive at Saint-Claude, nestled in the Jura Mountains at the confluence of the Bienne and Tacon rivers. Saint-Claude is not only the capital of briar pipes: heir to a long tradition of craftsmanship, the town has built a reputation for woodturning and diamond and gemstone cutting. Tucked away at the bottom of its valley, the town stands out for its rugged natural environment and unique heritage attractions, such as Saint-Pierre Cathedral, the Pipe and Diamond Museum, Le Monde des Automates and the Abbey Museum, a hub for lovers of modern art.

A snowshoe hike, very well signposted. A well-trodden trail (at least due to the number of visitors). Mostly set in open countryside on the edge of the woods. A tasty refreshment stop awaits you on arrival, with a warm welcome for those who wish it. You can easily extend the walk to La Roche Bernard (1.6 km one way) and return via the same route.

I suggest a long circular route starting from Septmoncel, allowing you to discover some very pretty landscapes in the Jura.

A very steep section of the Sentier des Chamois trail offers views of the rugged terrain of the Flumen Gorges and the Gendarme's Hat, as well as a cool break at the waterfall. You will need good walking shoes as the slopes are steep.