Terre Valserine Tourisme

Charcoal burners produced charcoal in the mountains by piling wood into heaps which were then set alight. Part of the wood was consumed as it burned, consuming oxygen, whilst the heat from the wood transformed the rest into charcoal. This process was carried out directly in the forest, as close as possible to the source of the wood. The forests of La Michaille, like many other French forests, supplied this charcoal, which was used until the mid-20th century for heating and cooking.

In a typical Jura setting, this loop offers exceptional panoramic views, such as the Roche Fauconnière.

This route takes you down into the Valserine Valley, between the villages of Montanges and Champfromier. Woodland, meadows and fresh air await you!

This route takes you to the banks of the Valserine and transports you back in time: ancient stone bridges, a power station with an unusual history and a customs guard's hut. A mysterious and bucolic trail.

This trail allows you to explore the riverbanks, which tell a story through fishing, geology and industry. Halfway along, take a break at the magnificent shaded viewpoint.

During this walk, discover the arboretum established in 1920. As well as local trees such as birches, hornbeams and spruces, it features exotic species including Lebanese cedars and red oaks… There are around twenty different species, all catalogued and labelled.

After leaving the village of Champfromier and all its amenities, walk through pastures and forest paths. The highlight of this circular: the magnificent panorama from Les Avalanches over the Jura mountains.

Explore the vast expanses of the Retord Plateau. Along the way, you will see a few typical farms, traces of life in an immaculate and unspoilt place.