Crêt Monniot defines Arc-sous-Cicon’s connection with nature. Its summit reaches 1,141 m; two information panels offer views of the Jura Mountains, the Loue Valley and the high plateaus of Haut-Doubs. On clear days, the Alps are also visible. The view takes in several named landscape areas, along with a distant panorama that depends explicitly on clear visibility. The summit is also the destination of two circular routes of different lengths.
Crêt Monniot: Views and Circular Routes
The “Crêt Monniot par les Cordiers” circular route is 12.8 km long, rated moderate and takes about three hours. It starts in Arc-sous-Cicon and leads through woodland to the 1,141 m summit. The distance, approximate duration and rating provide specific points of reference for comparison with the shorter route.
The Crêt Monniot circular route is 3.4 km long, rated easy and takes about 1 hour 30 minutes. It starts and ends at the Crêt Monniot car park in Arc-sous-Cicon. The route passes through pastures and undergrowth, then returns along a forest track. It therefore differs not only in length and duration, but also in its described route.
In a direct comparison of times, the Cordiers route takes about three hours, compared with around 1 hour 30 minutes for the shorter circular route; the distances are 12.8 and 3.4 km. The “moderate” and “easy” ratings also distinguish the options. Together, these details provide a practical guide to the planned walking distance and timeframe. Seasonal ground conditions can affect hiking. Before setting out, also check the local access conditions at the car park.
Environmentally Sensitive Areas
The wetlands of Arc-sous-Cicon form an environmentally sensitive area along the route; hiking is identified there as a relevant activity. The Crêt Monniot circular route passes through the environmentally sensitive area of Prairies du Crêt Monniot. Follow local signs and regulations there. These details are part of the practical guidance for the hike, alongside route length and duration.
Building History and Nordic Skiing
The Ecole-mairie adds an architectural history to the nature and hiking themes. It was designed based on a proposal selected in 1847 and completed in 1864. A central avenue leads to a large semicircular stone staircase. The dates distinguish the selection of the design from the later completion; the staircase is a specific architectural feature of the building. The Ecole-mairie is fully listed as a historic monument.
For Nordic skiing, the “Crêt Monniot” area is at 1,100 m and the “Arc sous Cicon” sector at 800 m. The two elevations distinguish the sectors by 300 m. In the Arc sous Cicon sector, it is possible to start skiing directly from the reception building. Seasonal operations may vary, so check current conditions before planning a ski activity.
Discover more destinations: Dampierre-les-Bois, Rochejean, Arc-Et-Senans, Montlebon, Châtelblanc, Villers-Le-Lac, Pierrefontaine-les-Varans, Larnod
Back to the main travel overview: Doubs.
