Courfaivre: Church, archaeological sites and the Sorne
Accommodation in Courfaivre
Courfaivre lies at 460 metres above sea level, south of the Sorne and in the western part of the Delémont Basin. The basin is a broad depression in the folded Jura.
Location and landscape
The former municipal area included intensively farmed parts of the plain of the Delémont Basin and the wide low-lying area of the Sorne. It also included the isolated hill of Sur Chaux, reaching up to 589 metres, and the Jura ridge near Le Mont, which rises to 1,026 metres. Its steep northern slope was densely forested and included the Forêt de l’Aimery.
Church and archaeological sites
Saint-Germain Church was built in the early 18th century. It contains stained-glass windows by Fernand Léger. In 1953–54, it was renovated and extended by Jeanne Bueche, an architect from Delémont. The work followed the original construction period; the windows also give the building a distinctive artistic connection.
The archaeological site on Rue des Sabotiers in Courfaivre is classified as an early medieval necropolis. A necropolis is a burial ground. Excavations at the site uncovered 18 burials; seven graves contained grave goods.
The Courtes MĂ©chielles site lies between Courfaivre and Bassecourt. Traces of Roman buildings were identified beneath the ruins there; pottery and a bronze coin of Antoninus were used to date them. About 40 burials were discovered at the same site. Most date from the 7th-century Merovingian period, while some graves may be older. Courtes MĂ©chielles therefore brings together evidence of Roman buildings and burials whose dating is not equally certain for every grave.
Cycling routes and places to relax
The 28 km “Autour de Delémont” cycling route passes through Coutételle, Courfaivre, Develier and Delémont. Signposted cycle paths run through Courfaivre and continue to Glovelier. As signs and routes may change, check the waymarking before setting off.
The two picnic areas mainly differ in location: Place des Platanes is on the banks of the Sorne, between the river and a meadow, beneath plane trees; Pique-niques du Tilleuls is at the edge of the forest and offers views of the village and valley. Place des Platanes has two large tables, benches for 25 people, a fire pit with a grill, and parking. No reservation is required; water, toilets and firewood are not available. Bear this in mind when planning your visit, and check the current facilities beforehand.
The Refuge de Chambion offers a covered area for around 40 people; check the current facilities there as well. Southwest of the Centre de culture et de sport in Courfaivre are four pétanque courts, each measuring 3 m × 14 m, which are free for public use. Check access on site.
Discover more destinations: Delémont, Courroux, Vermes, Soyhières, Undervelier, Bourrignon, Saulcy, Glovelier.
Go to the main travel overview: Delémont.
