Montfaucon Ju: Hiking, Nature and Hotels

Marked hiking trails, moorland and railway history shape a stay in Montfaucon Ju. Around Montfaucon, you’ll find wooded pastures, ponds and nature reserves. Across the Franches-Montagnes, outdoor activities and gentle mobility take centre stage. For trip planning, practical differences such as starting point, duration and seasonal conditions can help.

Hiking, cycling and snowshoeing

Numerous marked hiking trails and walking routes start in Montfaucon. The Chemin du Jura No. 31 passes through the village and then crosses pastureland on its way to Saignelégier. Another option is the “Balade découverte dans les Franches-Montagnes” day hike. It starts in Montfaucon and goes via Les Enfers to the Cerniévillers organic farm, where guided tours are available. The hike takes 2.5 hours; starting at Pré-Petitjean station, it takes 3 hours. This starting-point condition matters for planning: starting at the station adds half an hour to the stated duration.

There are two different starting points for snowshoe tours. The “Boucle au départ de Montfaucon” loop starts at the REKA holiday village and is rated easy and suitable for families. Marked snowshoe route No. 4 starts at Pré-Petitjean station and is 4 km long. Winter conditions and trail markings can vary seasonally; check them before setting out.

Cyclists also have a concrete option: Montfaucon benefits from a completed cantonal cycling network with 500 km of marked routes. In addition to hiking and snowshoeing, marked cycling routes are therefore another option to consider.

Moorland and views

Étang de Plain-de-Saigne is in a nature reserve and is listed in the Federal Inventory of Raised Bogs of National Importance. The area around Montfaucon is also characterised by wooded pastures and ponds. On a clear day, views extend towards the Vosges as far as Ballon d’Alsace. Looking south, you can see the Bernese Alps, with Chasseral in the foreground. The two directions offer different impressions of the landscape.

Church and railway history

From the 12th to the 16th century, Église de Montfaucon served as the mother church of the Franches-Montagnes. The present church was built in 1831 and consecrated on 27 September 1864. Its main altar contains relics of Saint Felician and Saint Blandina. This sequence links the village’s long-standing ecclesiastical role with the construction and furnishings of the present church.

La Traction’s depot and workshop are in Le Pré-Petitjean in Montfaucon. The depot is open to visitors on Saturdays or by request; check the visiting arrangements in advance. From the CJ station at Pré-Petitjean, it takes three minutes by train to reach it. Check the timetable before travelling, as train services may change. A steam train ride can also serve as a starting point for a hike or for further exploration of the region.

Chemins de fer du Jura buses stop in the centre of Montfaucon. From Pré-Petitjean station, you can also explore the regional railway network. The bus stop in the village and the rail connection at Pré-Petitjean are therefore distinct points to bear in mind when planning.

Regional produce and accommodation

The regional identity of the Franches-Montagnes includes the Franches-Montagnes horse and cheeses from Le Noirmont and Saignelégier, including Tête de moine. In Le Pré-Petitjean, Auberge de la Gare serves seasonal cuisine made exclusively with fresh local produce; check the current offering before visiting. Horse-drawn carriage outings there include regional produce, brunch or fondue. Check the specific offerings and booking arrangements in advance.

Accommodation in Montfaucon includes hotel rooms, the REKA holiday village, rural guesthouses and smaller apartments. Whether you want to focus on a hike, the steam train or the landscape, the trails, visitor attractions and regional offerings described here give you practical starting points for choosing your stay.

Discover more destinations: Les Genevez, Le Bémont, Le Noirmont, Saignelégier, Muriaux, Epauvillers, La Chaux-des-Breuleux, Les Breuleux.

For the broader travel overview: Franches-Montagnes.