3 day itinerary for Jura

Itinerary

The Jura region, with its stunning landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages, is a fantastic place for trekking. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary that will let you soak in the beauty of the Jura while enjoying some great hikes. Let’s lace up those hiking boots and get started!

## Day 1: Discovering the Heart of the Jura

Morning: Arrival in the Jura

• Start your day by arriving in the picturesque town of Lons-le-Saunier, the capital of the Jura. Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café—try some fresh pastries and a cup of coffee to fuel your adventure!

Mid-Morning: Trekking in the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park

• Head to the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park. A great trek to start with is the Sentier des Cimes (Path of the Peaks). This trail offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The hike is about 10 km (6 miles) and takes around 3-4 hours, depending on your pace. Don’t forget your camera; the views are breathtaking!

Lunch: Picnic in Nature

• Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature. Find a scenic spot along the trail to relax and refuel. Local cheeses and baguettes are a must-try!

Afternoon: Explore the Village of Baume-les-Messieurs

• After your trek, head to the charming village of Baume-les-Messieurs. Explore the stunning cliffs and the beautiful abbey. If you’re up for it, take a short hike to the Cascades de Baume, a lovely waterfall nearby.

Evening: Dinner and Relaxation

• Return to Lons-le-Saunier for dinner. Try a local restaurant and indulge in some traditional Jura cuisine, like comté cheese or vin jaune. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town to soak in the evening ambiance.

## Day 2: Lakes and Scenic Views

Morning: Trekking around Lake Chalain

• After breakfast, make your way to Lake Chalain, one of the largest lakes in the Jura. The Tour du Lac Chalain is a beautiful 12 km (7.5 miles) loop that takes you around the lake, offering stunning views of the water and surrounding forests. This trek will take about 4-5 hours.

Lunch: Lakeside Picnic

• Enjoy another picnic lunch by the lake. You can find lovely spots to sit and enjoy the serene views. Maybe even take a quick dip if the weather is warm!

Afternoon: Visit the Cascades du Hérisson

• After lunch, head to the Cascades du Hérisson. This area features a series of beautiful waterfalls and is perfect for a leisurely hike. The trail is about 3 km (1.8 miles) and is relatively easy, making it a great way to unwind after your morning trek.

Evening: Dinner in a Local Village

• For dinner, consider heading to Morbier, a quaint village known for its cheese. Enjoy a meal at a local bistro and try the famous Morbier cheese.

## Day 3: Peaks and Panoramas

Morning: Trekking to the Crêt de la Neige

• On your final day, set out early to tackle the Crêt de la Neige, the highest peak in the Jura. The trek is about 12 km (7.5 miles) round trip and offers stunning panoramic views from the summit. It’s a bit challenging, but the views are absolutely worth it!

Lunch: Summit Snack

• Pack a light lunch to enjoy at the top. Take your time to soak in the views and snap some photos.

Afternoon: Descent and Visit to a Local Distillery

• After descending, visit a local distillery to learn about the production of absinthe or gin. Many distilleries offer tours and tastings, which can be a fun way to unwind after your hike.

Evening: Farewell Dinner

• For your last evening, treat yourself to a nice dinner in Saint-Claude, known for its watchmaking and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy a meal featuring local specialties, and perhaps a glass of Jura wine to toast to your adventure!

And there you have it! A delightful 3-day itinerary filled with trekking, stunning landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. Make sure to check the weather and trail conditions before heading out, and most importantly, enjoy every moment in the beautiful Jura! Happy trekking! 🌲🥾✨