Wild Jura, within reach
Waterfalls, lakes and deep forests — two days to reset
- Duration
- 2 days / 1 night (weekend), or 3 days / 2 nights
- Best for
- Hikers, active families, couples, cyclists
- Best season
- May to October — waterfalls at their best in spring and early summer
The Jura is one of France's most unspoilt natural regions. In two days from Lons-le-Saunier, you can alternate between spectacular waterfalls, turquoise lake water and villages perched in natural amphitheatres. The greenway starts just outside the Perrigny apartments: nature begins at your door.
See & do
Cascades du Hérisson
~35 km from Lons. Seven waterfalls including the Grand Saut. Waymarked trail accessible from the Éventail — allow between 3 hours and a full day depending on your route. Good footwear required.
Lac de Chalain
The largest natural lake in the Jura (~25 km from Lons). Supervised swimming in summer, lake circuit trail, kayak and paddleboard rental on site in season.
Baume-les-Messieurs
~25 km from Lons. Village labelled "Most Beautiful Villages of France", set in a spectacular natural cirque. Medieval abbey, caves, waterfall — an unmissable stop.
Perrigny greenway
From 101 rue du Mont Neuf, the greenway is directly accessible from the car park. Paved trail on a former railway line, suitable for all levels, on foot or by bike.
Belvédère des 4 lacs
Panoramic view from the heights of Clairvaux-les-Lacs (~25 km from Lons). Access and parking: check locally before departure. Spectacular sunsets at the end of the day.
Jura forests and trails
The Jura massif offers many waymarked trails through conifer and deciduous forests. Check with the Lons-le-Saunier Tourist Office for routes suited to your level.
In bad weather
In overcast weather, the Hérisson waterfalls gain power and dramatic atmosphere. The Baume-les-Messieurs gorge remains striking under clouds. Indoor fallback: La Maison de la Vache Qui Rit in Lons (check opening hours on official site) or the city museums.
Itinerary ideas
Day 1 morning: Hérisson Waterfalls (~35 km from Perrigny). Walk down from the Éventail viewpoint to Moulin Jacquand — 7 falls including the Grand Saut. Picnic by the river. Afternoon: Baume-les-Messieurs (~25 km). Medieval village and abbey when the tourist crowds thin. Dinner under Lons' arcades. Day 2 morning: Lac de Chalain (~25 km). Swimming, kayaking or a walk around the lake. Afternoon: return via the Perrigny greenway — one last hour of nature just outside your door.
Related destinations
Where to stay
Solo cyclists & hikersPerrigny StudiosThe greenway starts 50 m away. Parking included for early morning departures. Fixed budget, no surprises.
Group or active familyT4 Perrin20 m² terrace to spread out maps and gear. 3 bedrooms, 8 beds — perfect for group adventures.
Couple, soft mobilityT2 PerrignySeparate bedroom, all-inclusive, parking. Guaranteed peaceful return after a long day's walk.
Plan your stay in Lons
Book directly, no platform fees. Describe your stay and receive a response within 2 hours on weekdays.