Vast natural spaces, ancient heritage, authentic villages… whether renowned or lesser known, the editorial team reveals its 2024 ranking of remarkable Jura sites. A list reflecting the diversity of the natural and cultural riches of our beautiful department, which is increasingly appreciated.
7. Travel the Hirondelles line to Saint-Claude
Since 1912, the Hirondelles line has connected Dole to Saint-Claude. On the program: one of the most beautiful railway lines in the country with 36 tunnels, 18 viaducts and sublime landscapes. Over the 123 kilometers of the line, you will have a nice overview of the assets of the Jura.
Two editorial favorites. The moment when the Palladian villa of Syam, with its yellow color, appears in the landscape. And of course, the natural spaces of Haut-Jura, where you will have the feeling of watching a documentary because what you see will be so magnificent!
Once in Saint-Claude, you can visit the pipe and diamond museum. Don’t miss the abbey museum either, particularly with its basements dedicated to an archeology section. Also take a few minutes to discover the city, and in particular the Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul-et-Saint-André cathedral.
6. Stroll by the lakes
In summer, the thermometer can quickly rise and the heat can quickly become stifling. Find a little coolness at the edge of the Jura lakes, especially those in the south of the department. Sheltered by the foliage of the trees, hikes are sometimes possible around it.
That of Chalain where it is possible to access beaches is for example very good, like that of Clairvaux-les-Lacs. Quite a few nice places on the shores of Lake Vouglans as well. The opportunity to refresh yourself and spend a friendly time with friends or family. The kids will love it!
5. The 4 lakes belvedere
It’s the postcard of the Jura! Haut-Jura is full of lakes, caves, waterfalls… A combination that makes it a territory for reconnecting with nature.
At the 4 lakes belvedere, you will admire a breathtaking panorama! There, you will see the lakes of Narlay, Illay, Grand and Petit Maclu.
For the more sporty, plan a special hiking day combining it with the Eagle peak. For others, it is possible to access a nearby car park by car and finish on foot. You will be amazed!
4. Dole, the ancient capital
Former capital of Franche-Comté, Dole is home to a beautiful heritage. In the middle of the old town, the Notre-Dame collegiate church, from the 16th century, proudly sitse century. Inside, admire a remarkable 18th century organe century. Also stroll through the streets of the city center and take a stroll around Little Venice (where you can visit the birthplace of Louis Pasteur). Scare yourself in the Raynaud III passage! Bruuuuh!
Then head towards the Hôtel-Dieu, an imposing building built in the 17th centurye century where the media library is located. Continue towards the Museum of Fine Arts or continue with a stroll along the Rhône-Rhine canal.
3. Favorite for the Osselle cave
Located near Saint-Vit, the Osselle cave is one of the oldest tourist caves on the planet. Discovered in the Middle Ages, its visit is an unmissable experience! Columns, stalagmites, stalactites, plays of light… a truly colorful journey into the bowels of the Earth, with part in the Doubs and part in the Jura.
A moment full of poetry where you will even meet the distant occupants of the place… bear bones. It was in this cave that paleontologist Buckland discovered the first complete skeleton of a cave bear in 1826, which was subsequently exhibited at the British Museum (London).
2. Get salty in Salins
The Grande Saline de Salins-les-Bains is increasingly establishing itself as a must-see to visit in the department. Last year, more than 80,000 visitors entered its doors. Having made the city rich, the salt works operated for at least 1200 years, before ceasing their operation in 1962. And yes, in Franche-Comté, salt was once produced! And in Salins, according to archaeological research, salt water sources were exploited from the Neolithic period. A story that is not from yesterday…
When you arrive at the Grande Saline, we advise you to opt for the guided tour. Thus, you will descend into a medieval gallery more than 150 meters long where you will see a hydraulic system allowing you to draw the brine. It almost feels like an underground cathedral, with coal on the ground. It’s to do !
Then, back on dry land. Head to the place where salt water was once heated to recover the salt. The opportunity to admire a very well preserved industrial heritage, including the last salt pan in France. A video space will also allow you to listen to testimonies. A job that was long, difficult, but necessary, particularly for food preservation.
For those who would like to prolong the virtues of salt, treat yourself to a moment of relaxation at the thermal baths! Possibility of continuing the visit by discovering the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans, whose remarkable architecture attracts people from all over the world.
The Grande Saline de Salins-les-Bains and the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans are included on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
1. Among the most beautiful villages in France…
176 villages are considered “The Most Beautiful Villages of France”, including two in the Jura, located near Lons-le-Saunier. Leaving the department without visiting Baume-les-Messieurs and Château-Chalon would be truly regrettable!
In a remote area, Baume-les-Messieurs is home to a 9th century abbeye century. At the beginning of the 900s, Abbot Bernon migrated with some monks from Baume-les-Messieurs and Gigny to found Cluny, which was later a heart of Christianity. In the abbey of Baume-les-Messieurs, you will see a beautiful Flemish altarpiece from the 16the century. After this visit, possibility of hiking and climbing above the remote, walking towards the waterfalls or visiting the caves. Ultimately, this village is a summary of the riches of the Jura.
A dozen kilometers further, let yourself be surprised by Château-Chalon, a hilltop town. From up there, you will have a superb view of the surrounding vineyards. A unique panorama! This is also where some of the best yellow wines are produced. Also discover the story of the writer Bernard Clavel, who lived in the village. For the more sporty, a hike is essential!
