Hiking Franche-Comté

Whether for sightseeing or for getting around, the Voie verte des berges du Doubs in Besançon is a very good option. Following the towpath of the river in a loop around the old town, it offers beautiful views of the city. Starting from the Battant bridge, it leads exactly to the Canot bridge via the Citadelle underpass, the Mazagran footbridge or the Charles-De-Gaulle bridge. It's a pity that the surface is not very smooth and does not allow rollerbladers to progress (cyclists will be fine, however); alternatively, you can take a VéloCité.

Distance: 14 km.

The region is home to some wonderful hiking trails, nestled at the foot of the Jura mountains. Among them, the hike to the Crêt de Chalam is a magnificent experience. Don't forget to explore the hikes that will take you past the many waterfalls or to the Chapeau de Gendarme. In winter, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or even dog sledding. To discover all the itineraries available, visit the tourist office. You can book supervised outings.

Grandes Traversées du Jura coordinates and develops activities on the GR5 and GR9 routes. 180 public and private organizations are members. Call the association's head office or visit its website for more information on hiking and other activities. The Grande Traversée du Jura can be done on foot, mountain bike, mountain bike, snowshoes, cross-country skis or horseback! 388 km of marked trails from Montbéliard to Culoz (01) cross the Parc naturel du Haut-Jura.

There are many walks around Lure, for all levels. For the mighty, you must take the direction of Vouhenans and the Wave Trail (10 km). As his name indicates, he follows the banks of the Ognon and proposes to discover fountains and washing machines. At half way, discover a superb view of the Vosges massif. For the less mighty, direction La Sophisticated (3 km and two picnic areas) or choose the ascent of Mount Gedry (2 km).

Information to the initiative union of Saint-Hippolyte. Here you can find a wide range of trails, which offer a wide range of possibilities to make loops in greenery from 5 km to 50 km around the site.

This 1.5 hour walk, for young and old, proposes a path around 3 ponds: Vaillant, du Crêt and du Fort. 4.5 km between woods and fields where you can discover the ponds and all the maintenance they require: dykes, overflow systems, temporary pools, and the protected plant and animal species in this area. The interactive terminals help to understand the link with nature. There are a total of 12 circuits in this area, the longest of which is 45 km long. There is even one for mountain bikers. Attention all enthusiasts!

Don't let yourself be impressed by its 63 kilometers! In its route between Port-sur-Saône and Gray, this Ride serves Scey-sur-Saône-et-Saint, Soing-Cubry-Charentenay, Autet and Rigny; so many opportunities for departure and arrival for the nearby athletes! Start walking or cycling, and shape your itinerary according to your mood and level. On the way, the different villages crossed can also be used for short breaks.

Tariff: free.

Distance: free, up to 63 km.

Difficulty: .

Let's take a stroll in the woods... And we're spoilt for choice! Located on the outskirts of Besançon, the Chailluz forest boasts several signposted hiking trails. From 6 to 14 kilometers, choose the one that suits you best; they're all guaranteed to give you a good time. In all, there are 1,780 hectares of playground perfectly suited to young and old alike. And if you're feeling peckish, take advantage of the picnic areas!

Michaël Parmentier is a nature and outdoor sports instructor who offers sporting activities during your stay in the Jura. Located on the first plateau, in the commune of Mirebel, you can join him in exploring the many hiking trails and sharing his knowledge of the area. He also offers electric bike rides, archery and paddles and canoes for hire on Lac de Chalain. Contact him for information and bookings to discover the Jura in a different way.