Nozeroy sits on a hill overlooking the Val de Mièges and the course of the Serpentine. The fortified town can be explored through buildings with different historical functions; a tour with around twelve QR codes makes it possible to discover the town centre’s history independently. There is also an easy circular trail and a longer mountain biking route. If you are looking for a hotel in Nozeroy, these highlights offer a practical guide to deciding whether cultural history or outdoor activity should shape your stay.
From fortified town to residence
Nozeroy was founded in 1264 on the Jura’s second plateau. Jean de Chalon made it his capital and had a first castle built there. Construction of the Château des Comtes de Chalon as a fortress began in 1261 at the southwestern end of the Nozeroy rocky outcrop. Around 1440, Louis Ier de Chalon-Arlay transformed the château into a luxurious residence. Because it was built with local yellow stone, it was called “la perle du Jura.” Volunteers are consolidating the surviving ruins to preserve them.
The former Saint-Barbe hospital is also part of the town’s history. It was founded in 1481 and, after the fire of 1639 during the French conquest, rebuilt as a royal hospital.
Architecture and historical functions
The Tour de l'Horloge was the main entrance to the fortified town. It is classified as a historic monument and is one of the few surviving examples of military architecture in Franche-Comté. The Collégiale Saint-Antoine was built in the 15th century to replace a 13th-century chapel. Located on the town walls, it was part of the defensive system. The Église Saint-Antoine was listed as a historic monument by decree of 26 October 1927.
Tour and local character
Around twelve QR codes in the historic centre make it possible to follow a self-guided historical tour. In Nozeroy, the Maison du Tourisme Champagnole Nozeroy Jura has an office providing tourist information.
Local produce includes “beurre de Nozeroy”: the Coopérative beurrière du Val de Mièges in Nozeroy makes it from Jura cream and lets it mature traditionally. The Coopérative does not sell directly to the public.
Two routes, different scales
The “Nozeroy: Sur le sentier de Yoline” circular trail starts at Place des Annonciades. It is rated easy and is 8.3 kilometres long. Trail conditions can change, so check them before setting out. Another option for cyclists is the “Le val de Mièges - 28R” mountain biking circuit: it passes through Nozeroy, is marked red and is 43.2 kilometres long. Route information may be updated, so it is advisable to check the details before setting out.
The routes differ both in activity and length: an easy 8.3-kilometre circular trail is contrasted with a 43.2-kilometre mountain biking circuit. This lets you choose the kind of route that best suits the activity you want from your stay. The history of the fortified town and the self-guided tour add a cultural dimension, without requiring you to combine the two routes.
Discover more destinations: Aumont, Saint-Germain-Lès-Arlay, Le Vernois, Chaux-des-Crotenay, Clairvaux-Les-Lacs, Souvans, Bellefontaine, Morez.
See the broader travel guide: Jura.
