This territory, bordered by Switzerland, offers grandiose panoramas, deep forests, crystal-clear lakes and a wealth of history and culture well worth exploring.
The unspoilt nature of the Jura
The Jura is a veritable playground for hiking and outdoor enthusiasts. The Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park is a great place to immerse yourself in the beauty of the Jura landscape. From the peaks of the Jura, you can admire breathtaking views of the Saine valley, the surrounding mountains and even the Alps on a clear day. There are many hiking trails to choose from, such as the Cascades du Hérisson trail, where the water cascades down in a series of spectacular waterfalls, or the climb up to Château de Joux, an imposing medieval fortress set in an exceptional natural setting.
Winter sports fans will not be outdone, as the Jura is a popular destination for winter activities. With Nordic ski resorts, downhill ski slopes and snowshoeing areas, there’s something for everyone. Les Rousses is one of them. In summer, the region is a great place for hiking, mountain biking, fishing or canoeing on Lac de Chalain, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Jura, surrounded by forests and hills.
A rich cultural heritage
The Jura is also a land where history and culture meet at every street corner. In Saint-Claude, capital of pipes and diamonds, you can discover the art of pipe-making, a tradition that goes back several centuries. You can visit craftsmen’s workshops and even watch demonstrations on how to create these unique objects. The Pipe and Diamond Museum is a fascinating place to learn more about this heritage.
The Musée des Beaux-Arts in Lons-le-Saunier and the Musée du Jouet in Moirans-en-Montagne are other must-sees for discovering the local history and traditional arts of the Jura.
Local specialities
The Jura is also a gourmet destination, famous for its local produce. You’ll discover world-famous cheeses such as Comté, Morbiers and Mont d’Or, which you can sample in local cheese dairies. Jura wines, made from atypical grape varieties such as Savagnin or Poulsard, offer unique flavours to be discovered during cellar visits and tastings.
