Visiting the Doubs Regional Natural Park
The Doubs Regional Natural Park is a cross-border protected area set between France and Switzerland. The landscape transitions from the wooded Dessoubre valley to open plateaus and the rugged karst canyons of the Doubs river, reaching its highest point at mont Châteleu at 1,302 meters. This territory is recognized as the birthplace of the Franco-Swiss watchmaking industry, a craft now listed as an intangible cultural heritage by Unesco.
Diverse landscapes along the border
The Doubs Regional Natural Park is defined by its dramatic geography, most notably the gorges du Doubs and the Saut du Doubs, a natural waterfall with a drop of about 27 meters. The cirque de Consolation is another distinct feature, known for its sheer limestone cliffs and secluded setting. A seminary has been located here since the 17th century. From the belvédère de la Roche du Prêtre, you can take in expansive views of the cirque and its surrounding walls. If you are hiking, make time for a trek near the échelles de la Mort (Ladders of Death). Once a route for local smugglers, these passages now feature metal ladders that are well-suited for modern hiking.
Where humans and wildlife coexist
The Doubs Regional Natural Park balances agricultural activity with the protection of diverse wildlife, including various species of bats, lynx, falcons, and other birds of prey. During your visit, you will move between protected wetlands and active farmland, home to the famous Montbéliarde cattle and Comtois horses. You can explore the park on foot, by bike, on horseback, on skis, or even by canoe.
Bordered by the Doubs gorges at the French border and covered by the Jura forests and pastures, the Doubs Regional Natural Park is worth a visit. The area is not completely wild, as there are quaint little villages, winding back roads, and farms. It is hilly, which offers lovely views, without being rugged like high mountain parks can be. In short, it is pretty easy to get around even if you are not a seasoned athlete. Anyone can find pleasant hiking trails. A few small streams and little waterfalls add to the experience, so it is up to you to find them :)