Chemin du Jura
Overview
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Distance 17 km
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Duration 4 h 45 min
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Ascent 620 m
Intro
The route leads through the cultivated landscapes of the Ajoie region and across a ridge into the Clos du Doubs. Bands of rock and erosion gullies crisscross the forests on steep slopes. The stage ends in the narrow medieval streets of St-Ursanne on the banks of the Doubs.
Description
Fertile farmland and numerous vineyards characterise the wide open landscape of the Ajoie north of the Faltenjura's ridges. Porrentruy, the capital of this region, is a quirky town with a population of 7,000 and plenty of charm. Baroque noble palaces, antiquated-looking shop signs, the medieval castle and traces of dinosaurs bear witness to the town's rich history. You walk on cobblestones through the old quarter before leaving the place soon after and finding yourself on a path on the forest's edge.
Continuing south through forest and cultivated landscapes, the trail gently climbs to the route's highest point. At Les Chainions, 882 metres above sea level, a nature lover's house is open on weekends, and a picnic area is also available. Continue across the ridge, which also forms the border to the Doubs Nature Park, to the tiny hamlet of Seleute. Sweeping views extend over the Clos du Doubs region with its steep slopes. Bands of rock and erosion gullies formed by short side streams crisscross the deciduous forest, and the Doubs meanders along the narrow valley floor.
The Doubs Nature Park extends from here along the French border to Le Locle. The cultivated landscape characterised by pastures and forests was created over centuries by cattle and horse breeding. Today, the watchmaking industry and eco-friendly tourism are also important sources of income.
From Seleute, the route descends on asphalt and forest paths past farms towards St-Ursanne and the Doubs. You reach the picturesque old town through one of the three town gates. Townhouses from the 14th to 16th centuries give the historic centre its character. Above the old quarter lies the hermitage, commemorating the missionary St. Ursicinus, who is said to have lived here in a cave over 1,400 years ago. The former Benedictine monastery, with its early Gothic cloister, reflects several centuries of sacred architecture.
An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted
| Start location |
Porrentruy
|
|---|---|
| Destination |
St-Ursanne
|
| Ascent |
620 m
|
| Descent |
600 m
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| Distance |
17 km
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| Duration |
4 h 45 min
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| Duration back |
4 h 45 min
|
| Technical requirements |
Easy
|
| Physical requirements |
Medium
|
Quick Facts
Route number
