Lakes, waterfalls, and picturesque heritage among rivers and vineyards: experience it from your holiday home in Jura

The French Jura is a region near the Swiss border and, although the Alps aren’t far away, the landscape here is far gentler than you might expect. Think green mountain plateaus, rolling vineyards, and valleys that transition into long, forest-crowned hills. Many hiking trails in the Jura are marked along waterfalls, and you'll find charming villages recognized as “the most beautiful villages in France.” The scenery also reveals itself spectacularly during a road trip that takes you past stunning villages like Château-Chalon – a photogenic hilltop village surrounded by vineyard-filled valleys. Looking for a destination where both mountains and valleys shape the landscape? Then consider a holiday home in the Jura with these tips in mind!

Take a road trip from your holiday home in Jura

The Jura is home to several beautiful lakes, many of which lie along scenic driving routes. The Route des Lacs, for example, leads you past vibrantly colored lakes surrounded by wooded shores. You can easily complete the Route des Lacs in a single day, even if you decide to stop at one of the lakes for a short hike or an hour of beach relaxation. In summer, Clairvaux-les-Lacs is perfect for swimming thanks to its warm waters, while the trail around Lac de Bonlieu offers a wonderful one-hour nature walk.

Discover the many waterfalls of the Jura

The Jura is not only known for its lakes, but also for its numerous waterfalls, some of which reach impressive heights. The Hérisson Waterfall is one of the region’s most famous, nestled deep within dense forests. The water cascades down 65 meters in total, gradually tumbling over multiple levels and boulders. But this isn’t the only sight to see: the surrounding valley is filled with additional waterfalls that can be explored on foot from various access points. Enclosed entirely by leafy woodlands, the Hérisson Valley is especially popular in autumn. Tip: begin your hike from the village of Doucier. A 7-kilometre trail leads you through the forest along the Hérisson River. Upon returning, a café terrace in the village offers the perfect way to unwind after your adventure.

Another waterfall you can explore on foot or by boat is the Saut du Doubs. The boat option gets you up close to the roaring water while you enjoy the natural beauty of Lac des Brenets. If you choose to hike, you'll view the waterfall from a scenic overlook, with coniferous and deciduous forested hills in the background. Emerging suddenly from the woods, the bright white cascade pouring into the lake is especially picturesque in the autumn light.

Drive to Château-Chalon from your holiday home in Jura

No trip to France is complete without visiting beautiful villages, and the Jura has many. Some you’ll stumble upon by simply driving around, while others have earned official spots on the “Most Beautiful Villages of France” list. Château-Chalon is one such gem, perched on a hill in a breathtaking setting. Here you'll find a Romanesque church, ruins, and restaurants with terrace balconies where you can enjoy local wine and panoramic views. At the foot of the village and on the hillsides, you'll see terraced vineyards, and in the distance, the landscape spreads out in rolling countryside, fields, and forested peaks.

Arbois and Dole: two gems to visit in the French Jura

Another charming village worth visiting from your Jura holiday home is Arbois. The area is known for its vineyards, which produce a variety of local wines. This makes Arbois one of the Jura’s top gastronomic destinations. The town also exudes historic charm with its proud church tower. The Cuisance River runs right through Arbois, crossed by stone bridges and lined with homes that in some places appear to hover above the water. The Saint-Just basilica tower dominates the skyline, but it’s the small waterfall that flows through town that gives the setting a magical touch.

Another must-see town is Dole, known for its rich architectural heritage. If you enjoy a scenic stroll combined with a boat ride, this is the place to be! The Tanner Canal creates a postcard scene, especially with the flower-covered railings along the old tannery houses. A terrace by the water invites you to sit and enjoy the view of this beautifully preserved quarter.

Hike around Baume-les-Messieurs

Baume-les-Messieurs is a peaceful village located in a narrow valley and offers plenty of reasons for a visit. The distinctive combination of village charm and surrounding limestone cliffs makes this a perfect area for hiking. From the hilltop plateaus, you’ll find scenic viewpoints overlooking the unique karst landscape. In the surrounding area, caves and waterfalls cascade dramatically from steep rock walls. Though small, the village is incredibly picturesque, with an abbey and a gentle river flowing through the heart of the settlement.

Rent a holiday home in Jura

The Jura in France is a region that delivers everything your eyes could desire – from waterfalls and turquoise lakes to scenic valleys and villages with historic homes along the water’s edge. It’s also a perfect destination for road trips, thanks to villages officially recognised as the “Most Beautiful Villages of France” and praised for their idyllic surroundings. Do you dream of discovering natural waterfalls and peaceful spots by the water? Then renting a holiday home in the Jura is a must!