Best attractions and places to see around Leschères, a commune in the Jura department of France, offers a blend of natural landscapes and historical sites. Situated within the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park, the area features forests, rolling hills, and several lakes. Visitors can explore significant natural features and cultural landmarks that reflect the region's heritage.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
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Climbed it today (17-8-25); it's open, and there are signs along the road showing your progress. Traffic is quiet, and a beautiful green climb, especially further on.
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Classified as 3rd category, the Col de la Joux was crossed during the 8th stage of the 2017 Tour De France!
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Access closed from all sides since 2020 😕
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The monks of Saint-Claude are credited with establishing a monastery in the 6th century to the southwest of the Abbey Lake on the island known as sur la Motte. Then, probably having fallen into disuse for several centuries, a second monastery succeeded it in the 12th century (1172) built to the northeast of the lake on the current site of the hamlet of l'Abbaye by the canons of the Abbey of Abondance (Augustinians of Haute-Savoie). The status of abbey, served by a particular abbot, remained for a century, until the monastery was the subject of an exchange of goods between the abbot of Abondance and that of Saint-Claude. Once again dependent on the Abbey of Saint-Claude, the Abbey of Grandvaux regained the status of priory. From the fortified buildings of the 12th century, which were accessed by a drawbridge, there remains today an old farm building (called La Joséphine after the former owner of the place), a presbytery and a church, dedicated to Notre-Dame de la Nativité, like that of Abondance. The site has been listed since September 15, 1966. A site to discover through a stroll in 4 scenes, evoking the history of the site.
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A waterfall that is well worth seeing. We were lucky and it had rained heavily the day before, so the waterfall practically shot over the falls.
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Warning, access to the Gorges de l'abîme has been prohibited since 2020, risk of landslides. After the Combes waterfall, take the Tre-bayard-le-bas path to the Grange Cattin and resume the route
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Leschères is rich in natural beauty. You can venture into the deep Gorges of the Abyss, known for their turquoise waters and lush vegetation. Another refreshing spot is the Combes Waterfall, offering a sense of escape. For scenic drives or cycling, the Col de la Joux provides a charming climb through the forest. The region also features several beautiful lakes, such as Lac de l'Abbaye and the Étival Lakes, perfect for tranquil moments.
Yes, Leschères offers a glimpse into its rich past. You can explore the Church of Our Lady of the Nativity of the Abbey and Abbey Site of Grandvaux, which dates back to the 6th century and features remnants of 12th-century fortified buildings. The local Saint-Denis Church in Leschères is also a landmark. Additionally, the nearby town of Saint-Claude is famous for its pipe and diamond museum, showcasing local craft traditions.
Being situated within the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park, Leschères offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, road cycling, and mountain biking. For hiking, consider trails like the Étival Lakes Trail or the Prénovel Peat Bog loop. Cyclists can enjoy routes such as the Col de la Joux – Abbey Lake loop. For more details on routes, visit the Hiking around Leschères, Road Cycling Routes around Leschères, or MTB Trails around Leschères guides.
Yes, the area around Leschères, particularly within the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park, provides hiking options for various skill levels. You can find easy trails like the Étival Lakes Trail (6.7 km) or the Etival lakes – Étival Lakes Viewpoint loop (4.5 km). For those seeking a moderate challenge, the Prénovel Peat Bog – Duchet Viewpoint loop (8.3 km) is available. These trails allow you to explore the diverse landscapes of the Jura region.
The natural environment around Leschères is generally family-friendly, offering opportunities for gentle walks and exploring nature. The Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park provides a vast playground for all ages. While specific 'family-friendly' attractions are not explicitly listed, the serene lakes and accessible parts of the Gorges of the Abyss (where permitted) can be enjoyed by families. The nearby town of Saint-Claude is also considered family-friendly.
The region around Leschères is home to several beautiful lakes ideal for tranquil moments and potentially wild swimming. Lac de l'Abbaye is known for its picturesque setting and surrounding lawns, perfect for relaxation. The Étival Lakes are also significant wetlands that offer a peaceful environment. Always check local regulations and safety guidelines before attempting wild swimming.
Leschères offers outdoor activities year-round. Summer is ideal for enjoying refreshing spots like the Combes Waterfall and exploring the gorges and lakes. The Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park provides ample opportunities in all seasons, including cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and dog sledding in winter, making it a versatile destination.
The Gorges of the Abyss are often described as one of the most beautiful and secluded natural sites in the Jura, a 'secret paradise' with a path equipped with footbridges. The Combes Waterfall also has an 'end-of-the-world' allure, providing a strong sense of travel and change of scenery, making it a hidden gem for many visitors.
Visitors frequently praise the refreshing experience at the Combes Waterfall, especially in summer, noting its unique charm. The Gorges of the Abyss are celebrated for their stunning turquoise waters, natural pots, and lush vegetation, offering a truly immersive natural spectacle. The scenic climb of the Col de la Joux is also appreciated for its beautiful forest setting and well-maintained road surface.
The Gorges of the Abyss are a beautiful site, but it's important to note that access to the beginning of the gorge has been prohibited since 2020 due to landslide risks. After visiting the Combes Waterfall, you can take the Tre-bayard-le-bas path to the Grange Cattin to resume the route and explore parts of this mini canyon.
During winter, the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park, which encompasses Leschères, transforms into a winter wonderland. It offers ample opportunities for activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding. The park's diverse terrain provides a beautiful backdrop for enjoying the snowy season.
The Col de la Joux offers a charming and scenic drive or cycle from Clairvaux-les-Lacs, winding through a forest with hairpin bends and providing beautiful views. While not explicitly named viewpoints, the natural settings of the Gorges and Waterfalls also offer picturesque scenes. The Étival Lakes are also noted for their isolation, making them ideal for stargazing, which implies clear, expansive views.


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