nature25
- Location: Doubs (25300)
- Gender: woman
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Published route(s)
The Forts of Saint-André and Belin and the memorial to a lieutenant
Set off to explore the two forts at Salins-les-Bains via pleasant footpaths, some signposted and some not, passing through Bracon. Discover the Oak of Liberty in Clucy near the fountain, then the cross and the memorial stone to a lieutenant who crashed with his aeroplane in 1945. Route involving a short stretch of road
Le Cul, the Nozon Valley and the Source of the Diaz
Set off to explore the “Cul du Nozon” site towards Vaulion. There are no signposts, which is a shame, as the spot is superb. There are small bridges, a path along the rock face and a waterfall. It is a truly wild and stunning place. Then head for the former Cluniac Abbey (fortified priory) of Romainmôtier, which is now a Protestant church. It is the oldest monastery in Switzerland. It was founded in the mid-5th century by the Fathers of the Jura, Saint Romain and his brother Saint Lupicin. The door is always open and entry is free. Next comes a visit to the Source de la Diaz and, to finish, the Vallon du Nozon: this site has also remained very unspoilt and is a magnificent place. There are several bridges, waterfalls and information boards about the area.
La Dent de Vaulion via the Grotte aux Fées
La Dent de Vaulion is the iconic mountain of the Vallée de Joux and Vallorbe, offering a magnificent 360° panorama. A majestic peak overlooking the village of Le Pont, it rises to an altitude of 1,483 metres. Its distinctive shape and location at the far end of Lake Joux earn it a prominent place in many photographs of the region. On a clear day, it is possible to see up to eight distinct lakes: the lakes of Neuchâtel, Biel and Murten, Lake Geneva, Lakes Brenet and Ter, Lake Joux and Lake des Rousses in neighbouring France. The Alps, and in particular the Mont Blanc massif, complete this idyllic landscape.
The Mont Tendre circular walk starting from Lac de Joux
Mont Tendre is the highest peak in the Swiss Jura, in the canton of Vaud, at an altitude of 1,679 m. It is situated within the municipality of Montricher.From its summit, you can enjoy a magnificent 360-degree panorama. You can admire the Alps from the Eiger to Mont Pourri (the Vanoise massif), Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchâtel, as well as the majestic Mont Blanc massif. A leisurely return via Lake Joux.
The banks of the Doubs, Les Chapelles and the Corniche de Goumois viewpoint
Set off to explore these magnificent trails, which are very pleasant along the River Doubs. The Leat d’Étoz and its Notre-Dame-des-Ermites Chapel, steeped in history and legend. Magnificent wooden sculptures in Urtière and its Saint-Roch Chapel. A walk through woodland, forest and meadows.
The Aiguilles de Baulmes, passing above Baulmes
The Aiguilles de Baulmes form a range of ridges over 4 km long, running generally north-east to south-west between Mont de Baulmes and the Col de l’Aiguillon. The French-Swiss border runs 700 metres to the west of the western end of the Aiguilles. The altitude of the ridge varies between 1,080 and 1,560 metres. A wooden cross has stood on the summit since 1935. From there, one can enjoy a magnificent panorama stretching out to the south: Baulmes, the Swiss Plateau, Lake Neuchâtel and the Alps. This hike offers the opportunity to explore the ‘Cave Noire’ cave. Access is secured by chains (a head torch is essential).
Circular walk around the Rochers de Naye starting from Caux
Les Rochers de Naye (2,042 m): A unique panoramic view of the Swiss and French Alps, from the Eiger to Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva. In particular, you can see the neighbouring peaks of the Dent de Jaman and Cape aux Moines, the French-speaking Jura, much of the Fribourg Pre-Alps and the Vaud Alps, including the Diablerets massif; the Bernese Oberland with the Eiger-Mönch-Jungfrau trio; as well as Mont Dolent and the Aiguille Verte in the Mont Blanc massif.
Roche Moron and Tour Jurgensen at the start of the Col des Roches
Set off to explore this magnificent trail, from La Roche and Côte de Moron, including the "Pillichody" trail (a high-altitude path, not suitable for children, impassable in winter) – sure-footedness is essential! The path is very narrow in places, with cables in place to secure the tricky sections.
The Jurgensen Tower, which is often open, is located along the route. There is a panoramic view of Villers-le-Lac, Les Brenets and the valley.
Do not attempt this hike in wet weather.
Grotte de la Glacière du Roi and the Dessoubre Valley
Set off to explore this magnificent forest, which is wild in places and, in some sections, unmarked. From the FFI Memorial and the magnificent wooden sculpture trail to the Grotte de la Glacière du Roi – not to be confused with the Grotte de la Glacière in Chaux-les-Passavant. Not forgetting the Dessoubre Valley and the Moulin de Belvoir.
The wind turbines of Sainte-Croix and the Sentier des Bornes trail
Set off to explore the two wind farm sites in Sainte-Croix, passing through hamlets, pastures, undergrowth and forest. You will pass Mont de la Chèvre, Mont des Cerfs (1,280 m) and its rural lodge, then make a round trip to see the Creux des Neiges chasm. The return journey is via the Sentier des Bornes trail.
Le Chasseron and the Saut de l'Eau
This is a fairly challenging hike with some wild sections and steep climbs, between forest and pastureland. There is a magnificent 360° view of Lake Neuchâtel and Lake Geneva from the Chasseron (altitude 1,607 m). You can also discover the Pierre de Paix (energy stone). There arefootbridges and steps at the Saut de l'Eau.
The Devil's Bridge, the Lison spring and waterfall and the Sarrazine Cave
A lovely loop along beautiful paths, discovering the Pont du Diable, the Creux Billard, the Grotte Sarrazine, the Source and the Cascade du Lison. At the start of this beautiful walk, you'll cross the protected natural area of the marl pits and the Bois de Château-Renaud stream. Then head for Crouzet-Migette to reach the Source du Lison site, with a steep descent into the Combe Fagot. Before arriving at the site, you'll passthe Gros Chêne, presumed to be 300 years old, with a circumference of 5.5 m, an imposing sight. On arrival at the site: a return trip to the Creux Billard (unfortunately the Source path is off-limits), then a break at the Cascade du Lison, and a return trip to the Grotte Sarrazine (headlamp required). Then back along the Lison, a nice rest before a steep climb to Crouzet-Migette.
Saint-Colombe and its chapel, La Planée and its memorial stone
A pleasant walk through the forests of Les Granges-Dessus, Saint-Colombe and La Planée.
Discover the Chapel of Notre-Dame de Bon Secours in Saint-Colombe and the memorial to Marie-Hélène Wuilleumier: a member of the Resistance executed by the Nazis on 13 July 1944.
An easy walk along lovely paths, though, unfortunately, with a few forest tracks.I recommendusing the Visorando app or a GPS for peace of mind.
The wild Biaufond valley with ladders, steps and footbridges
Set off to explore the Combe de Biaufond (in Switzerland) with its series of metal ladders, wooden staircases, fixed footbridges and bridges. Magical! Not recommended for those prone to vertigo. A mountain trail, therefore, difficult in places.
Then the Cerneux-Godat viewpoint and the Moulin de la Mort on the banks of the Doubs.
From a natural perspective, Biaufond’s main feature is its lake, which makes it a key wintering spot for the region’s waterbirds. But for everyone else, it is above all a magnificent destination for a walk and a meal by the water’s edge, at the crossroads of borders steeped in history.
Banks of the Doubs, two magnificent viewpoints and the Grotte des Moines
Set off to explore the banks of the Doubs, an old mill, the ruins of the Chapelle des Essarts Cuenot and two superb viewpoints: the Vieilles Femelles and the Échelles de la Mort. To finish, a lovely climb up to the Bois de la Biche to discover the Grotte des Moines and its ‘hidden’ box where you can leave a little note to say you’ve been there! Return via a magnificent path running alongside the banks of the Doubs.
La Source du Doubs as seen from Gellin and La Croix de La Bonde
Set off to explore La Source du Doubs and its viewing point in Mouthe, passing by the Virgin of Villedieu-les-Mouthe and the Virgin of Villedieu-les-Rochejean.
You’ll cross a ski run before reaching La Source du Doubs.
Then head for the Croix de La Bonde via the peat bog trail and, finally, the Sainte-Barbe Chapel
(dedicated to the patron saint of artillerymen and firefighters) at Maison du Bois.
Adjoining the chapel is a monumental cross dating from the 15th century, adorned with two sculptures of saints.
You’ll be following sections of theGR®5Jura trail.
You’ll enjoy magnificent panoramic views throughout this walk.
Châtelot Dam, Forges du Pissoux and Grotte du Grenier
A magnificent walk along the Doubs, passing through Les Forges du Pissoux. A climb towards Le Sapelot via the Sentier des Graviers before descending to the Grotte du Grenier. There’s a viewpoint just before it, ideal for a break. A very steep ladder awaits you as you enter the cave (no need for a head torch!). A gentle walk back to the “Chez Nemorin” junction, then on to the dam. The return to the car park is via a flight of steps.
Circular Les Brenets / Tête de Calvin / Tour Jurgensen and Saut du Doubs loop
The walk starts on the French side but you’ll mainly be walking on the Swiss side. This walk will take you to some magnificent viewpoints. You’ll climb up to the Tête de Calvin, a magnificent viewpoint (unsecured), then head towards Les Brenets where you’ll cross the border on foot (don’t forget your documents), then on to the Marais des Goudebas (listed in the federal inventory) and finally to explore the Jurgensen Tower. It stands on a rocky outcrop at a place called Le Châtelard, in the municipality of Les Brenets. This observation tower offers sweeping panoramic views over Lake Les Brenets and the Doubs valley, whilst also housing a funerary monument. Then head for the Recrettes and Escarpineau viewing points, saving the best for last: the Saut du Doubs, first on the Swiss side and then on the French side.
The Glacière de Monlési and the Corridor aux Loups in the Val de Travers
Set off to explore the Glacière de Monlési and the Corridor aux Loups, a wide, well-secured rock ledge. The Corridor aux Loups is a path carved by nature into a rocky outcrop; this long ledge has been eroded to such an extent that you can walk along it. Access poses no major difficulty; a chain runs the entire length of the corridor and four sets of steps – around 140 in total – are provided to make the walk easier. There is no evidence of a pack of wolves here, though some claim that this mysterious path leads to a place where witches and wizards used to meet. Spine-tingling!
A very well-signposted walk.
View of the top of the Chaux-Neuve ski jump and the Bief Bridaux waterfall
This loop will take you to the Roche Blanche viewpoint with its statue of the Virgin Mary. Enjoy a 360° panorama: to the east, Châtelblanc and the Val de Mouthe; to the west, the Val de Foncine; to the south, the vast Noirmont forest; and to the north, Les Cabouilles, La Combette, La Vernouge and Mont Croz. Then the leat Bridaux waterfall via a very narrow path (caution required), and the top of the Chaux-Neuve ski jump via beautiful paths. Return to the forest.
Memorial to the Mirage crash and pond at the start of Froidefontaine
A peaceful walk in the Mignovillard area. You will be on the Haute Joux GRP® trail until Essart Bassand. Head towards the Seigne des Barbouillons Regional Nature Reserve, where you will pass the memorial to the crash on 9 January 2019. This memorial was erected here following the crash of a Mirage aircraft from Nancy-Ochey Air Base 133, near the site of the accident in which two soldiers were killed.Take a break at the Fontaine Carrée pond, then return via the hamlet of Petit Villard and the Moulin du Martinet.
Lake Vouglans, Tour de Meix and Belvédère
A very pleasant circular route along Lake Vouglans with views of the Pont de la Pyle bridge. A long ribbon winding between wooded hills, Lake Vouglans is 35 km long. Located in the heart of the Jura, it is one of the region's aquatic gems and one of the best-preserved large lakes in France. There are no roads running alongside it, and a few beaches and ports are widely open to visitors. The paths are very well marked. Discover the ruins of the Château de la Tour de Meix.
Circular route via “Chez le Bolé” to Goumois
Circular hike starting from Goumois for a short but intense hike, mainly through woodland.
As you cross the bridge, look out for the Rocher du Singe on your left – it’s incredible.
The climb up to “Chez le Bolé” follows a challenging (but not dangerous) path – expect chains and ladders along the way!
Return via Muriaux, along lovely paths and some lovely, steep descents!
Les Rousses Circular Route
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.
The Areuse Gorges
The small village of Noiraigue in the Val de Travers is the starting point for the magnificent Gorges de l’Areuse hike, the upper entrance to which is only about 1 km away.
The route runs alongside the railway line and the valley narrows considerably. The impressive gorge, with its idyllic old stone bridge, is at Saut de Brot. Continuing towards Champ-du-Moulin along a small road, you will find another crossing via a section of path that leads you back into the gorges. Gigantic rock faces soar skywards. The path takes you over small bridges and through tunnels. Then, a power station marks the end of the spectacle; just one last bridge to cross and head towards Champ-du-Moulin for the return journey along a forest road and a view of Le Creux du Van.
From Morbier to Bellefontaine via Sacré-Cœur
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.
The Dent de Vaulion via Vallorbe
The Dent de Vaulion, the iconic mountain of the Vallée de Joux and Vallorbe. A majestic peak overlooking the village of Le Pont, it rises to an altitude of 1,482 metres.
A 360° panorama unfolds before you once you reach the summit. On a clear day, you can admire up to eight distinct lakes: the lakes of Neuchâtel, Biel and Murten, Lake Geneva, Lakes Brenet and Ter, Lake Joux and Lake Rousses. The Alps, and in particular the Mont Blanc massif, complete this idyllic landscape.