Mormont: Discover Damassine and the Walking Trail

Mormont and the walking trail

Mormont is a hamlet in the municipality of Courchavon in the canton of Jura, Switzerland. The «Sur le Chemin de Damas» walking trail gives the place a clear focus for an outing: the loop is five kilometres long, runs between Courchavon and Mormont along a forest path, and is considered easy and family-friendly.

The loop takes about an hour. Possible starting points include a car park by the church in Courchavon or the railway station. Check the current route status before setting off, as trail details may change. The approximate walking time makes it easy to fit the walk into your day’s plans as a short activity.

Damassine in the landscape and food culture

Another highlight is Damassine. On the circular trail, you can see Damassine plum trees in the village; a Damassine plum tree grows wild along the path near Mormont. Damassine plums were grown in Mormont in 1880. In Ajoie, the Damasson plum is used mainly to make Damassine fruit brandy; it is also used for jam, tarts, syrup and candied products. According to a local legend, crusaders brought the Damassine plum tree from Damascus. The legend tells a story of the tree’s origins, while its various uses show the fruit’s culinary significance.

Historical stops along the trail

On the heights of Courchavon, the trail passes a tower dating from the mid-13th century and the visible site of a former castle that once overlooked the village. A well hewn into the rock is also located along the route. You will encounter a range of historical landmarks: a tower with a known date, the visible site of a former castle, and a well carved into the rock.

Chapel and Ecole de la Nature

The chapel of Mormont in Courchavon has stained-glass windows by the artist André Brêchet. The Ecole de la Nature is housed in the fully restored former village school dating from 1839. In its rooms, you can discover the region’s natural riches; individuals, groups and school classes can be welcomed. Here, the building’s former use as a school is combined with a place to learn about the region’s natural environment. While the chapel’s stained-glass windows add an artistic touch, the Ecole focuses on nature education.

Regional cuisine and local produce

In the hamlet of Mormont, the Auberge-Restaurant St-Hubert welcomes guests in idyllic surroundings with carefully prepared gourmet cuisine. Restaurant services and availability may change; check the latest information if you are planning a visit. The walking trail also ends at a cellar offering regional local flavours, which make an aromatic souvenir. The cellar’s availability may vary.

For the broader travel overview: Courchavon.