The 9 most beautiful hikes in the Jura
Between the Alps and the Vosges, the Jura massif presents varied landscapes with crests, large forests, spectacular cliffs, or many lakes and waterfalls... So, whether for a sporty hike or a family outing, there is something for every taste.
Here is our selection of the 9 most beautiful nature outings in the Jura.
Pic de l'Aigle
The lakes of Narlay, Ilay, Petit and Grand Maclu, better known as the "four lakes", are one of the most popular areas for hiking in the Jura. And to take the measure of it, there's nothing like a getaway to the peak of the Eagle.
This walk follows a cornice punctuated with belvederes, offering very beautiful views of the lakes below. The return is then downhill, along three of the lakes.
Around the four lakes
In order to discover the four lakes, an easier and just as pleasant alternative is to go around them. Swimming is tolerated in the lakes of Narlay and Ilay, and there are many places to picnic. Ideal for a family outing.
The most famous waterfall
In the immediate vicinity of the four lakes, the Hérisson waterfalls are another favorite of visitors to the Jura. A series of thirty waterfalls on an energetic torrent offers a magnificent setting for a walk, preferably in the spring.
The highest point of the Jura
After a first fairly steep climb, here is a long route on the crests of the Haut-Jura, passing through Le Reculet then the Crêt de la Neige, the highest point in the Jura (1,720 m). Superb view of Lake Geneva, dominated by the Alps and in particular Mont-Blanc on a clear day.
Saut du Doubs
This hike leads to the Saut du Doubs, a 27-meter-high waterfall. The path then runs along the Doubs, before rising to the belvedere of Châtelard, offering a superb view.
One of the most beautiful villages in France
Stroll to discover the spectacular cliffs surrounding the village of Baume-les-Messieurs, which is one of the most beautiful in France. Belvederes, grotto, river and waterfall make it a very rich circuit.
The Nouailles gorges
This sporty and varied hike presents superb landscapes. The path goes up the Nouailles gorges, between waterfalls and rapids, to the source of the Loue. The return is via the ridges, via a pretty belvedere.
The Crest of Chalam
The Crêt de Chalam is a summit offering a very beautiful panorama of the Jura, and in the distance, the Alps. The ascent starts from the Borne aux Lions, which was built in 1613 to separate the Kingdom of France from Spanish Burgundy.
Ain's losses
Finally, we finish this selection by circuit allowing to discover the Villain castle, to cross a forest by the crests, then to follow the Ain until its famous "losses". The river rushes into a very narrow gorge, travels underground, then cascades into a basin.
Want more ideas? It's this way: see all the trails of the Jura massif. 🗺
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