Things to do in the Jura: the best experiences between Dole and EuroVelo 6
Looking to recharge with nature on a Jura micro-adventure? Welcome to the heart of the Montagnes du Jura. The TGV station in Dole is the perfect gateway: step off the train, hop on a bike, and set off on the legendary EuroVelo 6, the famous cycle route that follows the Doubs River and links Dole to Besançon.
Spending a few days in the Jura? In this article, we share our best recommendations. On the program: wandering through a city of art, paddling along a canal, cycling on an iconic route, tasting local specialties… Let’s go!
Dole: A City of Art by the Water
The Charm of the Historic Center
Labeled a City of Art and History, Dole enchants with its renovated center, cobbled lanes, and elegant mansions. For a fun way to explore, follow the Circuit du Chat Perché: a playful route that guides you to iconic monuments and hidden corners!
Before you leave, make sure to try local Jura specialties: Comté and Morbier cheeses, vin jaune, and regional sweets—available in the restaurants and shops of the old town.
Vue sur le centre de Dole - © Mizenboite Production / BFC Tourisme
The Collegiate Church and Its Panoramic View
Don’t miss the Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, with its 73 m bell tower. Climb to the top and you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the city, the Dole plain, the canal, the Chaux forest, and even the distant Serre massif.
Electric Boat Ride
Change the pace with Une Belle Aventure, which offers retro 1950s-style electric boat tours. Silent and stylish, they let you glide along the meandering Doubs and canals of this “little Venice” of the Jura.
A ride on a retro electric boat: sounds tempting, doesn't it? - © Benjamin Martinie
In the Footsteps of Louis Pasteur
Did you know? Dole is the birthplace of Louis Pasteur, the famous scientist behind the rabies vaccine. Visit his birthplace and museum, located on the Tanners’ Canal, to discover his scientific legacy through objects, archives, and interactive exhibits. A historic site that’s both educational and fascinating.
Nature & Conviviality Around Dole
Hiking and Local Brewery
Just 10 minutes from the city, Mont-Roland offers superb panoramic views of Dole and its surroundings. Hikers can follow sections of the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James). And after the effort, reward yourself with a visit to the Brasserie Doloise to discover craft beer making—and taste it, of course!
Jardin Collection Annabelle
In Rainans, the Jardin Collection Annabelle, labeled Remarkable Garden, is a peaceful haven. Perfect for a nature break among hydrangeas and other rare varieties!
On the EuroVelo 6
From Dole, hop on your bike and ride the EuroVelo 6, one of Europe’s most iconic cycle routes: 3,600 km linking the Atlantic to the Black Sea along great rivers. Here, it follows the Doubs through a bucolic landscape of quiet canals, picturesque villages, and rolling countryside.
On the road to EuroVélo 6 - ©Mizenboite Production / BFC Tourisme
It’s the perfect itinerary for a day trip or a longer cycling holiday. You can pedal easily with the family, stop for a riverside picnic, or continue your journey all the way to Besançon, following the river. The route is flat, safe, and fully equipped for cyclists.
Besançon and the Doubs loop - © Coline Ponnelle / BFC Tourism
Traveling light? No worries: many Accueil Vélo accommodations are available along the route, such as the Gîte Le Gévot, an ideal stopover for a warm, friendly break.
From heritage to nature, cycling to gastronomy, the Jura has everything you need for a refreshing low-carbon adventure.
This article was produced in partnership with Montagnes du Jura.
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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