Things to do in Doubs: the most beautiful experiences to enjoy in the Jura Mountains
Photo : Ornans - ©Benjamin Martinie
Looking for Inspiration for Your Next Low-Carbon Adventure? With emerald rivers, limestone cliffs, and picturesque villages, the Doubs is one of the most beautiful corners of the Jura Mountains. Located in eastern Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, right on the Swiss border, this department perfectly combines nature and heritage. Its capital, Besançon, a UNESCO-listed city thanks to Vauban’s Citadel, is the perfect gateway for a sporty and cultural weekend—just 3 hours from Paris by TGV.
And here’s the good news: no car needed! Train, bike, and even kayak take you from one spot to the next, from the Loue Valley to Ornans, the “Little Venice of Franche-Comté” beloved by Gustave Courbet.
In this article, we’ll guide you through the Doubs with a mix of heritage, nature, and thrills: citadel, museums, hiking, caving, via ferrata, canoeing, foodie stops… In short, everything you need for a mountain adventure that’s soft, sustainable, and full of culture. Let’s dive in!
Besançon: The Perfect Heritage & Outdoor Combo
Vauban’s Citadel & Museums
A trip to the Doubs wouldn’t be complete without visiting Besançon, labeled a City of Art and History. Its Vauban Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, towers over the city. Wander along the Vauban quays, stop at the Museum of Time, or be surprised by street art in the lively Battant district.
Citadelle de Besançon - © Corinne Vasselet / BFC Tourisme
Kayaking on the Doubs
For a change of perspective, hop in a kayak and paddle right through the city, where historic monuments and nature blend together along the river.
The Watchmakers’ Line: From Besançon to Switzerland
Fancy a cross-border train ride? The famous Watchmakers’ Line connects Besançon with Le Locle in Switzerland, taking you through the charming plateaus of the Doubs via Mamirolle.
Ligne des Horlogers, Besançon - © Bourgogne-Franche-Comté Tourisme
Ornans: In the Footsteps of Courbet
A “Little Venice of Franche-Comté”
Nestled in the Loue Valley, Ornans is known for its hanging houses, flower-decked bridges, and ever-present river. Courbet turned it into his artistic playground—and it’s easy to see why!
Ornans - © Benjamin Martinie
The Courbet Museum & Studio
As you’d expect, the musée Courbet is a must. More than 1,000 m² dedicated to the master of realism, with breathtaking views over the Loue. Just steps away, his studio immerses you in his creative world.
Gustave Courbet Museum in Ornans - © Corinne Vasselet - BFC Tourisme
Outdoor Playground
Canoeing on the Loue, via ferrata, climbing, or hiking up to panoramic viewpoints (Notre-Dame du Mont, Rocher d’Ully, the castle lookout)… Ornans is also a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers!
Via ferrata à Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne - © OT Vallée de La loue - Christophe Tattu / BFC Tourisme
The Loue Valley: A Paradise for Outdoor Enthusiasts
Cycling & E-Bikes
With Happy’s Experience, explore the Loue Valley trails by e-bike. The perfect stop? A local picnic (with regional cheeses) at Montrond Castle.
Caving in the Cavottes Cave
With Roc & Eau, embark on a journey underground. Expect stalactites, rappelling descents, and ziplining in a magical subterranean setting.
Whitewater Sports
Canoeing, canyoning, stand-up paddleboarding, or air kayaking in the Loue Gorges… Adrenaline guaranteed, in a pristine natural setting!
Where to Sleep & Eat?
Éco-camping La Roche d’Ully - ©Benjamin Martinie
Our favorite addresses:
- Éco-camping la Roche d’Ully: unusual and eco-friendly accommodation in the heart of the Jura Mountains.
- Les Gamins restaurant in Besançon: gourmet, refined cuisine in the heart of the city center.
- Chez Gervais in Ornans: river fish dishes and a bucolic terrace by the Loue.
In the Doubs, you’ll find the perfect balance of culture, nature, and outdoor adventure—all without a car. A journey that’s as sustainable as it is unforgettable.
This article was produced in partnership with Montagnes du Jura.
For more inspiration, visit www.montagnes-du-jura.fr!
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.
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