Discover the French Jura: A Guide to Its Top Attractions

The Jura region in France, nestled between the picturesque Burgundy hills, the Vosges Mountains of Alsace, and the Swiss Lakes, is a haven of natural beauty and cultural heritage. This area, once known as Franche-Comté, is dotted with medieval towns, Romanesque churches, and tranquil spa towns.

With ski resorts for winter sports and unspoiled countryside for summer activities, the French Jura remains a hidden gem for tourists seeking adventure or relaxation. Here's a curated list of the top attractions in the French Jura.

1. Besançon

Besançon, encircled by the Doubs River, is a medieval town rich in culture. The 12th-century Cathédrale Saint-Jean and the nearby Place Archéologique Castan are must-see spots. The town's main street, Grande Rue, showcases 17th-century houses designed by military engineer Vauban.

The impressive Citadelle de Besançon, perched above the town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses several museums, including the Musée de la Résistance et de la Déportation and the Muséum d'Histoire Naturelle de Besançon.

2. Baume-les-Messieurs

In a secluded valley, Baume-les-Messieurs captivates with its Benedictine abbey and the stunning Grotte de Baume, a cave adorned with stalagmites and stalactites.

3. Pérouges

Pérouges, a medieval village, is known for its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. The Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges offers a traditional stay, while the Musée du Vieux Pérouges provides insights into the town's history.

4. Dole

Dole, a City of Art and Culture, features the Collégiale Notre-Dame and the Musée des Beaux-Arts. The town's heritage can be explored via the "Circuit du Chat Perché" trail.

5. Belfort

Belfort is known for its fortress, the Belfort Citadel, and the iconic Lion of Belfort monument. The old town and the Cathédrale Saint-Christophe are also noteworthy.

6. Arbois

Arbois, surrounded by hills, is home to the Musée d'Art Hôtel Sarret de Grozon and the Maison de Louis Pasteur. The nearby Reculée des Planches offers a natural escape with waterfalls and wildlife.

7. Poligny & Comté de Grimont

Poligny, in the historic Comté de Grimont, is a medieval town with notable churches and a rich gastronomy, including the famous Comté cheese. The Maison du Comté offers a cheese-making tour.

8. Château d'Arlay

The Château d'Arlay, a Neoclassical manor, is set in a historic park classified as a Remarkable Garden. Guided tours are available to explore the château and its elegant gardens.

9. Montbéliard

Montbéliard, "La Cité des Princes," features a château housing the Musée du Château des Ducs de Wurtemberg and the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire Beurnier-Rossel, showcasing the city's bourgeoisie history.

10. Nozeroy

Nozeroy, France's smallest town, is rich in historical buildings, including the 15th-century Eglise Saint-Antoine and the Tour de l'Horloge.

11. Arc-et-Senans

Arc-et-Senans is famous for the Saline Royale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Neoclassical masterpiece by Claude-Nicolas Ledoux. The site now features the Musée Ledoux.

12. Chapelle Notre-Dame du Haut in Ronchamp

Designed by Le Corbusier, the UNESCO-listed Chapelle Notre-Dame du Haut is a modernist architectural marvel and a pilgrimage site.

13. Ornans

Ornans, the birthplace of painter Gustave Courbet, houses the Musée Courbet and features a picturesque riverside setting.

14. Château de Frontenay and Château-Chalon

The Château de Frontenay offers cultural events and the nearby village of Château-Chalon, one of France's Most Beautiful Villages, boasts a 12th-century church.

Nature Sites, Spa Towns & Ski Resorts

The Jura region is also home to the Colomby de Gex peak, the hiking paradise of Culoz, the spa town Divonne-les-Bains, the ski resort Les Rousses, and the historic spa town Lons-le-Saunier. Luxeuil-les-Bains, Malbuisson, Saint-Claude, Salins-les-Bains, and Villers-le-Lac are other notable destinations offering a mix of cultural heritage, outdoor activities, and relaxation opportunities.