10 natural gems to discover in the Jura Mountains

Written by Sophie Renassia

Published on January 1, 1970, modified today

Straddling three departments—the Doubs, the Jura, and the Ain—and bordering Switzerland, the Montagnes du Jura are packed with natural treasures. Whether you love hiking, swimming, or simply soaking in the scenery, you’ll find plenty to enjoy in this postcard-perfect landscape.

Here are 10 must-see gems for a breath of fresh Jura air.

1. Lake Saint-Point

Located at 850 m altitude in the Doubs, Lake Saint-Point is the 3rd largest natural lake in France. Surrounded by forests and meadows, it exudes a peaceful atmosphere.

• In summer: perfect for swimming, sailing, or canoeing.
• In autumn and winter: its frozen shores resemble Canadian landscapes.
• Bonus: a prime site for observing migratory birds!

Lac de Saint-Point - © Nino Scherer / BFC Tourisme

2. The Summit of Mont d’Or: A Balcony Over the Alps

At 1,463 m, Mont d’Or dominates the Haut-Doubs and offers one of the most beautiful panoramas in the region. From its ridge, the view opens onto the Alps, with Mont Blanc as a backdrop on clear days.

Accessible on foot or by mountain bike in summer, and by snowshoes or ski touring in winter, the summit is a must for lovers of hiking and grand landscapes.

Balade au Mont d'Or - © Maud Himbert / BFC Tourisme

3. Crêt de la Neige & Reculet: The Giants of the Jura

In the Ain, Crêt de la Neige (1,720 m) and Reculet (1,718 m) are the two highest peaks in the Jura Mountains.

Their ascent, from the Lélex plateau or the Valserine Valley, rewards hikers with exceptional views over Lake Geneva, Geneva city, and the Alpine chain. An emblematic duo for gaining true perspective over the Jura massif.

Le Reculet - © Bestjobers Elisa & Max / BFC Tourisme

4. The Cirque of Baume-les-Messieurs

Ranked among the “Most Beautiful Villages of France”, Baume-les-Messieurs is famous for its Benedictine abbey… but also for its monumental natural cirque.

Carved by water and time, this limestone amphitheater stretches for several kilometers and shelters spectacular waterfalls in spring!

View of Baume-les-Messieurs from the Granges viewpoint - © Corinne Vasselet / BFC Tourisme

5. The Source of the Lison

In the heart of the Doubs, the Source of the Lison bursts forth from an impressive karstic cave. Immortalized by Gustave Courbet, this resurgence feeds a cascade over 4 m high.

• In summer: a refreshing haven.
• In autumn and spring: the flow reveals all its power.

Source du Lison - © Maud Humbert / BFC Tourisme

6. The Hérisson Waterfalls

One of the Jura’s most famous sites, the Hérisson Waterfalls consist of 31 successive drops along a 3.7 km trail. From the Éventail to the Grand Saut, the spectacle is breathtaking.

Tip: in summer, the flow can be low. For the full magic, visit in spring, autumn, or even winter—when the falls freeze into ice sculptures.

Cascade du Hérisson during automn - © Stéphane Godin / BFC Tourisme

7. The Saut du Doubs & Its Basins

A natural border with Switzerland, the Saut du Doubs is a 27 m waterfall nestled in lush greenery.

• Accessible on foot or by boat.
• Panoramic viewpoints offer stunning perspectives over the Doubs basins.

Best enjoyed in spring and autumn, when the cascade transforms into a postcard-perfect landscape.

Saut du Doubs - © Marika Godin - MK / BFC Tourisme

8. Lake Bonlieu

Surrounded by deep forests, Lake Bonlieu is one of the most photogenic in the massif. Depending on the season, its waters shift from turquoise blue to emerald green.

A footpath circles the lake, making it perfect for a tranquil stroll far from the crowds.

Lake Bonlieu - © Marika Godin - MK / BFC Tourisme

9. The Glandieu Waterfall

On the border between Ain and Isère, the Glandieu Waterfall is one of the most impressive in the Bugey massif.

At 60 m high, it tumbles in two drops and maintains a powerful flow year-round—making it spectacular even in summer. In winter, its frozen walls create a magical scene.

Glandieu Waterfall -© Maud Humbert / BFC Tourisme

10. Grand Colombier & Lavours Marsh

At 1,534 m, Grand Colombier is a legendary peak, made famous by the Tour de France. From its viewpoint, you’ll see the Rhône, Lake Bourget, and Mont Blanc. At its base lies the Lavours Marsh Nature Reserve: 500 hectares of wetlands, wooden walkways, and protected species—a paradise for biodiversity lovers. A striking contrast between Alpine ridges and pristine wetlands.

Lavours Marsh National Nature Reserve, view of Grand Colombier - © Marika Godin - MK / BFC Tourism

Want to See More? These ten jewels are just a glimpse of the natural wonders the Jura Mountains have to offer.

This article was produced in partnership with Montagnes du Jura. For even more hidden gems, head to their website!

Written by Sophie Renassia

Issue du monde de la communication et des médias, Sophie est Responsable éditoriale chez HOURRAIL ! depuis août 2024. Elle est notamment derrière le contenu éditorial du site ainsi que La Locomissive (de l'inspiration voyage bas carbone et des bons plans, un jeudi sur deux, gratuitement dans ta boîte mail !).

Convaincue que les changements d’habitude passent par la transformation de nos imaginaires, elle s’attache à montrer qu’il est possible de voyager autrement, de manière plus consciente, plus lente et plus joyeuse. Son objectif : rendre le slow travel accessible à toutes et tous, à travers des astuces, des décryptages et surtout, de nouveaux récits.