In the surroundings

Welcome to Saint-Claude: a subtle blend of arts and crafts and breathtaking mountain scenery

Nestling in the heart of the Haut-Jura, Saint-Claude (3km from the campsite) is a town that has it all: a dream setting, deep-rooted traditions and craftsmanship that have stood the test of time. You can breathe in the fresh air, admire the mountains and discover a rich heritage.

It’s impossible to talk about Saint-Claude without mentioning its local symbol: the briar pipe! Made here since the seventeenth century, with skill, by hand and with great precision! To find out 100% more about this craft, visit the Pipe and Diamond Museum, where you can discover a tradition that has made the town world famous.

And what about the diamonds? Surprise! Saint-Claude is also famous for its tradition of cutting precious stones, particularly diamonds. Yes, behind its green and discreet appearance, it sparkles with a thousand lights… Passionate craftsmen perpetuate this goldsmith’s know-how and will give you the opportunity to admire their creations in the small craft shops (it would be a shame not to leave with a small souvenir).

Saint-Claude is also the place to stroll and move at your own pace. Between the narrow streets of the historic centre, the ancient facades, the little shops and the charming terraces: it’s a real invitation to unwind. Don’t miss Saint-Pierre Cathedral, with its carved woodwork and atmosphere steeped in history. It’s also a lively town, with craft markets, festivals, exhibitions, guided walks… It’s a lively place, especially in summer! All in a friendly atmosphere. And as we’re not forgetting the natural side of things, it’s also the ideal starting point for exploring the Haut-Jura region.So, ready to discover?

The Haut-Jura Nature Park: nature with a capital ‘N’!

Welcome to the Parc Naturel du Haut-Jura, the high-altitude region at the foot of the campsite where nature is no laughing matter… As well as its sublime landscapes, it has a wild and authentic side, with no less than 178,000 hectares of greenery. In other words, there’s plenty for you to walk through… or get lost in style!

There are spruce forests as far as the eye can see, lakes with changing reflections, mysterious peat bogs (almost worthy of fairytales), dizzying peaks and secret valleys. All punctuated by picturesque hamlets where you can enjoy Comté cheese with a glass of local wine (in moderation).

Here, each season has its own character, but all the seasons are worthy of a painting. And if you like walking: good luck, the park is a paradise for motivated calves of all levels. Between the famous GR5, the crests of the Jura, the gorges of the Saine and its many waymarked paths, there’s something for everyone, with a pretty panorama to match (you have to reward yourself).Cyclists will also find plenty to enjoy here, with winding roads, mountain passes to climb and breathtaking scenery.

But it’s also the ideal spot for those who simply like to take their time and contemplate… Fresh air and exceptional panoramas await you! And if you keep your eyes peeled, you might just spot a Motbeliarde cow grazing peacefully, or a chamois for the lucky ones…

Walks along the river: discover the waterfalls of the Jura!

Fancy a change of scenery with a view over the water? There’s no shortage of waterfalls around Le Martinet campsite, each with its own character. An ideal idea for a family outing to get some fresh air and enjoy the cool surroundings…

For the first stop, and by no means the least, head for the Cascades du Flumen (2.5km from the campsite)! Welcome to a fairytale setting where the cliffs tower above you and the water roars between the rocks. Just a stone’s throw from Saint-Claude, discover the mystical Jura: deep gorges, vertiginous cliffs and an impetuous torrent. Access is via a peaceful path (at first…), which winds its way through the dense forest before revealing these three superimposed waterfalls, a feast for the eyes. In the wet season, the spectacle is breathtaking: powerful falls, mist and the sound of water.

For the second part of your aquatic journey, stop off at the Cascades du Hérisson (approx. 45km)! It’s a bit like the star of the Jura after all. This emblematic natural site takes you on a 7.4km hike (AR) along a torrent that tumbles over no fewer than 31 jumps and waterfalls. Yes, 31. You’ll get some great shots! Among the most impressive are L’Éventail (65m fan-shaped), Le Grand Saut (60m full of power) and Le Gour Bleu, with its turquoise waters that almost make you want to dive in. An ideal hike for the whole family.

Finally, more discreet and less well known than its counterparts, the Cascade des Combes (5km from the campsite) is the hidden gem that only curious hikers will dare to seek out. Situated in a discreet valley between Villard-Saint-Sauveur and Septmoncel, they offer a more intimate and wild spectacle, with fewer crowds. Here, the water flows gently over the mossy rocks, forming a peaceful cascade in a green setting. Perfect for a picnic by the water.

On the paths of the Jura: between crests, waterfalls and lush green forests: get your calves ready!

For those who like to walk and explore in slow tourism mode, we’ve put together a small selection of walks for all levels of ability, along with some not-to-be-missed spots in the area. It’s time to recharge your batteries…

On the waterfalls front, the Cascades du Flumen is a 7-10km hike (approx. 2-3? hours) at an intermediate level, through the ‘Jungle of the Jura’, between mossy rocks, cliffs worthy of a fantasy film and luxuriant vegetation. Perfect in hot weather: coolness and natural spectacle guaranteed.The unmissable Cascades du Hérisson trail offers an easier, more accessible route.

Further inland, head for Crêt Pourri (approx. 2hrs and 6km)! The name may come as a surprise, but the 360° panoramic view is exceptional. Crêt Pourri is a little nugget perched high above Saint-Claude. It’s a gentle climb and the view from the summit is breathtaking. Ideal for families… and picnic lovers with a view!

On a more woodsy note, take a plunge into the heart of the Forêt du Risoux from the Combe à la Chèvre (intermediate level – 9 to 12km and approx. 3/4h). Welcome to the largest forest in the Jura, where the fir trees are king and silence reigns supreme: the ideal place to unwind! This walk plunges you into a Nordic, almost mystical atmosphere, with its giant trunks and needle-covered paths. Get your calves ready!

Finally, the easier Belvédère de la Roche Blanche hike (7km, approx. 2h30/3h) makes the most of the view: this pretty path climbs gently from the heights of Septmoncel to offer breathtaking views over the valley. On a clear day, you can even see the Alps looming on the horizon. A pretty picture at sunrise or sunset…

Spectacular gorges and peaceful lakes around Saint-Claude: a 100% natura combo

If you thought the Jura was just fir trees, waterfalls and cheese (but good cheese), let us tell you that you’ll also discover sublime lakes (lots of them) and spectacular gorges just a stone’s throw from the campsite. There’s plenty of time for a swim, a siesta, a stroll and some contemplation.

Nestling at an altitude of over 800 metres, discover the Lac de l’Abbaye (25km from the campsite). A natural lake worthy of a postcard: calm water, mirror-like reflections, peaceful little boats… In a 100% Zen atmosphere. The perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, a picnic for two or a break from the hustle and bustle. Just 17km from the campsite, Lac de Lamoura (the highest lake in the Jura) offers a short, easy loop on foot (around 3km), perfect for families and nature-lovers who don’t want to exert themselves too much. You’ll come across a few ducks, concentrated fishermen and the occasional brave swimmer (the water is cool, but swimming is supervised and the beach is equipped).More impressive, this is the Jura in XXL. Lac de Vouglans is 35km long and has everything you could wish for. Several equipped beaches (including the famous Mercantine beach), paddling, sailing, swimming and wilder creeks: a real playground just 43km from the campsite. The turquoise waters make you want to take a dip!

On the gorges side, discover the Jura in all its mystery! Head for the Gorges de la Langouette, just under an hour’s drive from Saint-Claude. This natural canyon carved out by the river Saine offers a breathtaking spectacle: narrow cliffs, roaring water and lush green moss. A short but intense walk in the atmosphere of a film… Less well known but just as magical, the Gorges du Tacon wind their way between cliffs and forest. A short path guides you between rocky chaos, footbridges and plant tunnels. Ideal for a cool, fun family walk.

Thermally yours: spa breaks to discover in the surrounding area!

Hiking, waterfalls and lakes are all very well… but isn’t it time to take a break and recuperate? Just the thing: the spa towns around Saint-Claude have a 100% zen programme waiting for you.

An hour from Saint-Claude, Lons-le-Saunier is the capital of salt… but also of well-being! The Lédonia thermal baths welcome you with their thermal water pool, hammam, hydromassage jets and other pampering treatments for tired muscles. You can also take the opportunity to visit the old town with its pastel-coloured facades and say hello to the Laughing Cow (yes, it’s local!).

A little further afield (approx. 1 hour 20 minutes’ drive), and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Salins-les-Bains offers a wellness cocktail with a view of the Vauban fortifications. The spa draws its strength from naturally salty waters: a real detox for the body and a historic break for the mind. Bonus: the Grande Saline (salt museum), a must-see for those who want to learn more! A little further away on the Swiss border, Divonne-les-Bains (approx. 1 hour’s drive) plays the elegance and relaxation card with finesse. People come here for the cures, to stroll along the lakeside or to play at the casino. If you like the idea of relaxing in a postcard setting, this is the place to do it!

Charming villages around Saint-Claude: a subtle blend of stone and local nuggets

For a more picturesque break, there are a whole host of small Jura villages around Saint-Claude that are well worth a diversion, a ‘coup de coeur’ or a gourmet break on a terrace. They have character and cachet, sometimes with a leaning bell tower or a pretty fountain, and above all that “postcard” atmosphere.

Baume-les-Messieurs (about 1 hour from the campsite) is nestled in a spectacular natural cirque. This village is often a favourite with lovers of old stones: between the imperial abbey, majestic waterfalls, typical houses and imposing cliffs: the true charm of yesteryear! Bonus: good food…

Closer to the campsite at 5km and 1000 metres altitude, welcome to Les Bouchoux! On the programme: breathtaking panoramas, trails galore and a calm, typical atmosphere. Perfect for those who want to breathe in the fresh air, do a bit of walking and stock up on local cheeses. This is the Jura as we like it: simple, authentic and with a view!

Just 30 minutes from the campsite, the little village of Chancia nestles between Lake Coiselet and the cliffs: a real haven of peace. Ideal for a picnic break, a stroll along the water’s edge or a quiet mini kayaking session. Just nature and relaxation!