Charquemont can be explored through a variety of themes: watchmaking tradition, a 17th-century chapel, panoramic views across the Doubs Valley, and activities for cyclists. When planning your trip, it helps to distinguish between these highlights: local history is reflected in specific buildings and a long craft tradition, while the views, forest and sports facilities appeal to different interests. This lets you plan your trip around the focus you prefer.
Watchmaking tradition in the townscape
Since the late 18th or early 19th century, the watchmaking industry has been part of Charquemont’s history. Residents worked both as farmers and as watchmakers from home for neighbouring Switzerland, supplying components for watch movements. Agriculture and watchmaking were therefore part of the same daily life; working from home also connected the craft with Switzerland.
Rue Neuve reflects this history in the townscape: all the houses on this street in Charquemont are connected with watchmaking. The Chapelle Saint-Roch offers a different historical perspective. It was built in the 17th century; graves surrounded it within an area enclosed by a low wall. Rue Neuve and the chapel thus represent different aspects of local history: the craft on the one hand, and the older chapel with its burial ground on the other.
Forest, views and historic routes
The Belvédère des Vieilles Femelles offers panoramic views across the Doubs Valley and is accessible only on foot. The Bois des Rachottes is a coniferous forest typical of the second Jura plateau. These nature destinations offer different experiences: views across the valley from the belvedere, and the plateau’s characteristic forest type in the Bois.
At the Échelles de la Mort, three metal staircases lead up to higher areas. The Échelles are also associated with the history of French-Swiss smuggling in the region. The route itself and its historical significance give this place two distinct sides. Check the local conditions on the staircases before setting out.
On the route to the Échelles, a narrow, winding road passes through Fournet-Blancheroche; there is a large car park at the Le Refrain hydroelectric power station. It is advisable to check local road conditions before setting off. This information describes the route to the Échelles without assuming a starting point in Charquemont.
Activities and getting around
La Combe Saint-Pierre offers a pump track, enduro trails and an XC section for different riding levels. Each option offers a different kind of cycling experience. As details of the facilities may change, check the latest information before visiting.
The N 454 runs through Charquemont from south to north. It gives winter sports enthusiasts and hikers access to ski lifts, marked trails and the ice rink. For specific activities, take road conditions and the status of the facilities into account. This helps distinguish getting around the town from planning individual activities: the road provides an access route, while your choice of experience depends on your interest in local history, landscapes or outdoor activities.
Discover more destinations: Villers-Le-Lac, Montbenoît, Malbuisson, Amancey, Loray, Les Combes, Vuillecin, Hauterive-La-Fresse.
For the wider travel overview: Doubs.
