Oye-et-Pallet can be explored via two distinct circular routes and notable architectural and artistic features. The Grands communaux route leads from the Doubs Valley up to the plateau; the Tour du Lac de Saint-Point is a difficult five-hour circuit where coots and grey herons can be spotted along the shore.

Comparing the Two Circular Routes

The Grands communaux circular route is designated as a PR route. It is 6.6 kilometres long and takes 2 hours and 30 minutes; both the ascent and descent involve 191 metres of elevation gain. The route leads from the Doubs Valley across the plateau above, through forests and communal land.

The Tour du Lac de Saint-Point starts and ends at La Gouille in Oye-et-Pallet. This difficult PR loop covers 21.3 kilometres, takes five hours and involves 330 metres of elevation gain on both the ascent and descent. Coots and grey herons can be spotted along the shore. The long route therefore also offers a specific focus for observing nature by the water.

The difference is clear when planning your time: the Grands communaux takes half as long as the Tour du Lac, which is also classified as difficult. The elevation gain differs too: 191 metres each way on the shorter route and 330 metres each way on the longer one.

From Pontarlier, the approach to the Grands communaux circular route follows the RN57 towards Lausanne, then the D437 and Rue des Écoles. Parking is available at Oye-et-Pallet town hall. Since route information and access details may change, check them before setting out.

Church of Saint-Nicolas: Architectural and Artistic History

The Church of Saint-Nicolas brings together several phases of construction and furnishing. Its bell-tower porch dates from 1749. The ensemble of main altar, tabernacle and altarpiece was created by François Gagelin in 1716. The altarpiece is polychrome, gilded and protected as a historic monument. The stained-glass windows were designed by Serge Rezvani around 1956 and executed by the young glass artist Paul Virilio.

The church’s features thus span from the furnishings of the early 18th century to the windows of the mid-20th century. Several historical periods are made tangible in a single building.

Oratoire Notre-Dame des Côtes: A Small Structure with a Far-Reaching View

The Oratoire Notre-Dame des Côtes is an ochre-coloured stone structure 1.60 metres high. It lies 500 metres north of the village and just a few metres from the chapel built in 1871 under the same dedication. From there, the panoramic view stretches across the Doubs Valley and its meanders downstream of Lac de Saint-Point. The small scale of the oratory and the vast landscape encompassed by the view create a striking contrast between the structure and its surroundings.

Discover more destinations: Les Fourgs, Les Combes, Bonnétage, Sochaux, Rochejean, Verrières-de-Joux, Pontarlier, Clerval

For the regional travel overview: Doubs.