A raised bog with a peat layer formed over thousands of years, a historic mill pond and a variety of regional experiences make Saignelégier a destination for nature and culture enthusiasts. Cheese and brewery tours, horseback riding and sports activities complement exploring the landscape. This lets you plan your stay around the themes that interest you most.
Raised Bog and Water Landscape
Saignelégier lies at an altitude of 978 metres on a broad saddle of the Jura plateau in the northern Franches-Montagnes, on the edge of the deeply cut Doubs Valley. The Étang de la Gruère nature reserve lies mostly within the municipality. It covers around 120 hectares, including 56 hectares of raised bog. In places, the peat is up to nine metres deep and has accumulated over 12,000 years.
The Étang de la Gruère was created in the 17th century: a dam formed an artificial body of water that powered a mill. Two very different timescales therefore meet in one place—the creation of a body of water for a practical purpose and the much longer development of the raised bog.
Trails and Knowledge about the Bog
La Randoline leads from Saignelégier to the Étang des Royes in two sections, then continues to the Étang de la Gruère. The trails are suitable for all age groups in dry weather. However, they are not recommended for strollers due to a few narrow sections. Triangular signs mark the two sections and provide explanations in the three national languages. When planning your walk, therefore, take both the weather conditions and the narrow sections into account.
The Centre Nature Les Cerlatez is dedicated to research into, providing information about and protecting bog areas. Its offerings include environmental activities, themed and art exhibitions, guided tours, and hikes for different audiences. The centre opens on request by phone or by ringing the administration’s doorbell on site.
A cross-country skiing network is also designated for Saignelégier and the Franches-Montagnes district. This is a seasonal option, so snow conditions and availability also vary by season.
Church and Cultural Venues
The Neo-Baroque Notre-Dame de l’Assomption church in Saignelégier was built in 1927. Saignelégier’s church also houses a high altar from Bellelay Abbey. These two details offer different insights into the town’s history: the construction of a church in the early 20th century and an altar with links to an abbey.
Café du Soleil was established in 1980 in a renovated old Jura farmhouse. One building houses a bistro, a hotel, a gallery and an event hall. The gallery’s exhibitions can be visited during the café-restaurant’s opening hours, so plan your visit accordingly.
Cheese, Beer and Horses
At the Fromagerie de Saignelégier, guided tours explain how Tête de Moine AOP is made. Tours last one to one and a quarter hours and end with a cheese tasting. Groups are received by prior arrangement only. Before your visit, it is advisable to check the current reservation requirements. The Brasserie des Franches-Montagnes also offers tours of the brewery, by prior reservation.
The Manège des Franches-Montagnes offers trail rides, riding lessons and vaulting classes. A large indoor riding arena and a spacious sand paddock make it possible to ride year-round, in any weather. Check reservation options for your chosen activity before travelling.
Sports and Event Dates
The Jura Resort has a 25-metre indoor swimming pool and a 73-metre water slide. The covered ice rink offers ice hockey, figure skating and curling; curling is available by reservation. The spa has special access requirements: it is also open to guests who are not staying at the hotel, as well as to people aged 16 and over when accompanied by an adult. Opening hours, access and participation requirements may change; check the latest information before your visit.
The Marché-Concours takes place every year over several days on the second weekend in August. Highlights include a parade featuring more than 400 horses. If the event is important to your travel plans, check the exact dates for the relevant year.
Discover more destinations: Montfaucon Ju, Le Bémont, Muriaux, Les Genevez, Lajoux, Les Breuleux, Les Bois, La Chaux-des-Breuleux.
For the broader travel overview: Franches-Montagnes.
