At an elevation of about 1,014 metres, La Chaux-des-Breuleux lies on the Jura plateau of the Franches-Montagnes, west of the La Tourbière peat bog. The village and former municipality belong to the municipality of Les Breuleux in the Franches-Montagnes district of the canton of Jura. The surrounding area combines wide pastures and forests with a history shaped by agriculture and watchmaking.
Moorland and Trails
The La Chaux-des-Breuleux moor nature reserve is protected by the state; the applicable legal instrument came into force on 1 January 2026. A circular trail around the moor passes Étang Le Lavoir and winds through pastures and forests. The route is 6 km long and takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes; walking time may vary slightly depending on conditions. Check the trail conditions before setting out.
The surrounding Jura plateau also has walking and hiking trails through extensive pastures and forests. Horse riding, cycling and cross-country skiing are also outdoor activities in the area. You can choose between a specific loop around the moor and trails or activities in the wider landscape, without treating these different options as a single route.
Farmstead History and Watchmaking
La Chaux-des-Breuleux was first mentioned in 1397 under the name La Chaux and was shaped by agriculture for centuries. The Ferme La Baumatte is one example of its rural heritage. As of 1 January 2026, it is listed in the cantonal inventory of cultural property of the canton of Jura as a Category A cultural property. The farm houses a forge believed to have been built in the second half of the 19th century, where tools and some watch components were made.
The history of Étang Le Lavoir is also linked to watchmaking. One historical interpretation of the name tells how watchmakers from the region washed watch glasses there long ago. The acidic water is said to have given the glasses a crystal-like shine. This connection with the craft adds another regional activity to the agricultural history of the village, without requiring a separate day trip.
Routes and Excursions
The Route du Jura runs for 36 km from Saignelégier to La Chaux-de-Fonds. The route recommends turning right immediately in La Chaux-des-Breuleux after visiting the small lake Étang de la Gruère. As route conditions can change, it is advisable to check the route before setting out.
Écurie Double C offers horseback rides in the heart of the Franches-Montagnes and along the banks of the Doubs. Its adventure trek lasts two to five days. This is considerably longer than the moor loop, which takes about 1 hour and 50 minutes: the circular trail is a single outing, while the trek is a multi-day option. Franches-Montagnes Destinations offers tailor-made excursions in La Chaux-des-Breuleux on horseback, in horse-drawn carriages or in covered wagons. There are also one-day carriage excursions with a barbecue. Offers and booking details may change; check them before making plans.
Discover more destinations: Les Genevez, Les Bois, Montfaucon Ju, Muriaux, Les Enfers, Le Noirmont, Epauvillers, Le BĂ©mont.
For the wider travel overview: Franches-Montagnes.
