Best attractions and places to see around Courlans, a commune in the Jura department of France, include a mix of historical sites and natural features. The area serves as a base for exploring the rich natural and cultural heritage of the surrounding Jura region. This region is known for its diverse landscapes, including lakes, waterfalls, and forests, many of which are a short drive from Courlans. Cultural sites like the Église paroissiale Saint-Didier and a local château contribute to the area's character.
Last updated: May 19, 2026
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This easy-to-access circuit is perfect for exploring a loop that takes in varied and easy paths. However, bring a lamp as there are many tunnels and they are sometimes poorly lit.
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Beautiful, great, viaduct and tunnel. It's a shame the cycle path isn't asphalted.
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Beautiful views, but unfortunately the railway line cycle path is not asphalted.
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An old railway bridge worth seeing, unfortunately there are stupid rivets on the road and it is slippery when wet.
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With the many tunnels, bridges and some beautiful views, it definitely has the potential to be a beautiful railway cycle path. Most of it is not asphalted, there is light in the tunnels, but the lack of asphalt means that there are very dangerous longitudinal grooves. Later there is a staircase, which is not easy with full luggage and in bad weather. The asphalted sections unfortunately have car traffic, even if only local residents. Conclusion: unfortunately it doesn't come anywhere close to Alpe-Adria.
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As you travel along the PLM Route, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Vallière Valley. Once a historic railway line, this scenic route now offers a tranquil escape through rolling hills, lush forests and charming villages. From the elevated vantage point, you can admire the meandering river, picturesque vineyards and distant mountains.
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Magnificent landscapes Very good condition of the paths Good experience Only downside Stairs and dangerous part not sufficiently marked Tree on the ground due to wind
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A unique mountain route for railway lovers. The gradient is very moderate compared to the alternative roads.
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Near Courlans, you can explore fascinating historical railway infrastructure. The Révigny Metal Viaduct is an old railway bridge offering magnificent landscapes. Another notable site is the Tunnel de la Diane (Voie PLM), a section of the old PLM route that has been converted into a Greenway for pedestrians and cyclists, providing a unique mountain route for railway enthusiasts.
For stunning panoramas, visit the Guillotine Viewpoint, which overlooks the village of Révigny and offers typical views of the Jura relief. Additionally, the Metal Bridge and Tunnel of the Voie PLM route provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Vallière Valley, with its meandering river, lush forests, and distant mountains.
Yes, the area around Courlans offers various hiking opportunities. You can find routes ranging from easy to difficult, such as the 'Steiles Wegstück loop from Lons-le-Saunier' or the more challenging 'Steiles Wegstück – Montorient Viewpoint loop'. For more details and route options, explore the Hiking around Courlans guide.
Cyclists can enjoy a variety of road cycling routes near Courlans. Options include longer, more difficult loops like 'La Percée Pass – Lac de Clairvaux-les-Lacs loop' or 'Good bike path – La Voie Bressane loop'. There's also a moderate route, 'Statue of Rouget de Lisle – Montaigu loop'. Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Courlans guide.
The Jura department, where Courlans is located, is rich in natural water features. You'll find numerous lakes such as Lac de Chalain, Lac de Chambly, and Lac du Val, all within a short drive. The region is also home to impressive waterfalls like the Hérisson waterfalls (Confluence - Le Hérisson and Source - Le Hérisson) and Cascade de la Billaude.
Yes, the town of Lons-le-Saunier, very close to Courlans, is the birthplace of Claude Joseph Rouget de Lisle, the composer of the French national anthem, La Marseillaise. A Statue of Rouget de Lisle pays homage to him in Lons-le-Saunier.
Within Courlans, you can visit the Église paroissiale Saint-Didier, a significant local religious monument. There's also a historic château at La Valbonne et Culée, an old mill on Rue du Château, and a former tile and brick factory in Impasse de la Tuilerie, offering glimpses into the commune's past.
Yes, the Jura region boasts two 'Most Beautiful Villages of France' within a short distance from Courlans. Baume-les-Messieurs, about 12 km away, is nestled among cliffs and wooded slopes, showcasing the Jura Mountains' unique geological past. Château-Chalon, approximately 14 km away, is another designated beautiful village.
For runners, there are various trails around Courlans, ranging from moderate to difficult. You can find routes like the 'Running loop from Chilly-le-Vignoble' or the 'Bois de Bey – Grotte de Montard loop from Courlans'. Explore more options in the Running Trails around Courlans guide.
Yes, the Jura Mountains, accessible from Courlans, are home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include the Great Saltworks of Salins-les-Bains and the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans, both significant for their architectural and historical heritage related to salt production. Additionally, the palafittic sites of Chalain and Clairvaux are recognized for their prehistoric pile-dwelling settlements.
Visitors particularly appreciate the scenic beauty and historical significance of the attractions. The old railway lines, now converted into greenways, are popular for their unique mountain routes and breathtaking panoramic views. The viewpoints are highly rated for offering typical Jura landscapes, and the paths are generally well-maintained, providing good experiences for all skill levels.
Yes, approximately 10 km from Courlans, you can visit the remarkable Jardin des jeux du château d'Arlay. This garden offers a pleasant experience and is a great option for those looking for a tranquil outdoor setting.


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