Wooded pastures, ponds and nature reserves define the area around Montfaucon. There are also marked hiking trails and the La Traction depot in Pré-Petitjean. When choosing your accommodation, you can combine different interests: landscapes, outdoor activities and railway history.
Landscapes and hiking trails
The Étang de Plain-de-Saigne is in a nature reserve and is listed in the Federal Inventory of High Moorlands of National Importance. On a clear day, the view from Montfaucon stretches towards the Vosges as far as the Ballon d’Alsace. To the south, the Bernese Alps can be seen, with the Chasseral in the foreground.
Numerous marked hiking trails and walking routes start in Montfaucon. The “Balade découverte dans les Franches-Montagnes” is a circular day hike via Les Enfers to the Cerniévillers organic farm, where guided tours are offered. The hike takes 2.5 hours, or 3 hours if you start at Pré-Petitjean station. The Chemin du Jura No. 31 also passes through Montfaucon and then continues across pastureland to Saignelégier. You can choose between a circular hike ending at the organic farm and a route that continues beyond Montfaucon to Saignelégier. Check current conditions on the Chemin du Jura before setting out.
Cycling and winter trails
Montfaucon is also connected to the completed cantonal cycling network, with 500 km of marked routes. In winter, there are two different snowshoeing options: the “Boucle au départ de Montfaucon” starts at the REKA holiday village and is considered an easy, family-friendly tour. Marked route No. 4 starts at Pré-Petitjean station and is 4 km long. Winter conditions and trail markings may vary by season.
La Traction and getting around the village
La Traction’s depot and workshop are in Pré-Petitjean in Montfaucon. The depot is open to visitors on Saturdays or by request, and is a three-minute train ride from the CJ station at Pré-Petitjean. Check the current timetable before travelling. A steam train ride can be a starting point for a hike or another regional outing. You can also explore the regional railway network from the station; CJ buses stop in the village centre.
Church history and regional offerings
From the 12th to the 16th century, Église de Montfaucon served as the mother church of the Franches-Montagnes. The present-day church was built in 1831 and consecrated on 27 September 1864. Its main altar contains relics of Saint Félicien and Saint Blandine. Visitors interested in church and architectural history will find several distinct historical connections here.
Among the defining products of the Franches-Montagnes are the Franches-Montagnes horse and cheeses from Le Noirmont and Saignelégier, including Tête de moine. The Arc jurassien offers riding experiences for beginners and other equestrian activities. In Le Pré-Petitjean, the riding experience is tailored individually to visitors’ abilities and preferences; visits to the stable and herd are also possible. Carriage rides include regional products, brunch or fondue. The Auberge de la Gare in Le Pré-Petitjean serves seasonal cuisine made exclusively with fresh local produce. Offers and restaurant services may change; check them before making specific plans.
Where to stay in Montfaucon
Accommodation in Montfaucon includes the REKA holiday village, hotel rooms, rural guesthouses and smaller apartments. There are various types of accommodation to choose from for your stay. Whether your focus is on hiking, the high moor, railways or regional offerings, you can check the specific routes and conditions to suit your plans.
Discover more destinations: Le Noirmont, Epauvillers, Les Bois, Les Enfers, Les Genevez, Les Breuleux, Lajoux, Muriaux.
For the broader travel overview: Franches-Montagnes.
