Bellefontaine lies at the foot of the Risoux Forest and the lakes and marshes of Bellefontaine and Les Mortes. Marked trails lead on foot or by mountain bike through this landscape and to viewpoints in the forest. In winter, the Nordic ski area offers a different focus. When planning, it is worth considering the route type, length and seasonal conditions of each activity separately.

Forest, lakes and marshes

The Risoux Forest covers 2,200 hectares between Bellefontaine, Bois d’Amont and Les Rousses, forming a continuous woodland massif. The lakes and marshes of Bellefontaine and Les Mortes have distinctive boreo-Arctic vegetation and play an important role in the water cycle. The forest and the lake plateau therefore represent different landscape features, which can also be found along the trails described here.

The central part of the Risoux is subject to a prefectural order protecting its biotopes. It safeguards biotopes required for the reproduction, feeding, resting and survival of several protected species. Before visiting sensitive areas, check the current protection regulations.

Hiking trails with different route types

A marked trail lets you explore the lakes of Bellefontaine and Les Mortes on foot or by mountain bike. It also leads to the Roche Bernard and Roche Champion viewpoints in the Risoux Forest. Trail conditions can vary by season; it is especially advisable to check conditions in advance for winter outings.

The Sentier de la Roche Bernard is a difficult, 10-kilometre out-and-back route to the Roche Bernard viewpoint, which overlooks the lakes. The Sentier des Baganiers follows a different route: this 5.5-kilometre loop passes through forest, across fields and through the marsh on the lake plateau. It then follows the edge of the Risoux woodland massif back to the village. When comparing the two trails, both length and route type are useful guides; the Roche Bernard trail is also classified as difficult.

Cross-country skiing and mountain biking

Bellefontaine’s Nordic ski area has three trail access points: at the village, by the lakes and at the Risoux. Winter operations depend on snow conditions. At the foot of the lifts in the village, there is equipment rental and services offered by the French ski school. These visitor services may vary by season; check what is currently available before travelling.

The Tour des Lacs de Bellefontaine et des Mortes 18B route is also listed for mountain biking. Parking is available next to Bellefontaine’s tourist information point. As route conditions and parking availability can change seasonally, it is advisable to check before setting out.

Jewellery and stone cutting in Bellefontaine

La Taillerie is a jewellery and stone-cutting business in Bellefontaine. Parking is available directly in front of the shop. The workshop is fully accessible to wheelchair users without assistance. Visitor services and opening hours may change, so check these details before visiting.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Lamoura, Mournans-Charbonny, Pratz, Le Vernois, Morez, Bletterans, Vernantois, Arbois.

Back to the main travel overview: Jura.