Attractions and Places To See around Montain - Top 20
Attractions and places to see around Montain reveal a region rich in natural formations and historical sites, particularly within the Jura area of France. This destination offers diverse landscapes, from impressive tufa waterfalls and ancient cave systems to picturesque villages nestled among vineyards. Visitors can explore a variety of outdoor and cultural experiences, making it a notable area for discovery.
Best attractions and places to see around Montain
- The most popular attractions is Tunnel de la Diane (Voie PLM), an old railway route that has been converted into a greenway. It offers a unique mountain route suitable for pedestrians and cyclists.
- Another must-see spot is Château-Chalon Village, a settlement known for its vineyards and classification as one of France's Most Beautiful Villages. It provides views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to visit local wineries.
- Visitors also love Baume-les-Messieurs Tufa Waterfall, a natural monument located at the bottom of a basin. This waterfall flows over tufa formations, creating a scenic photo motif, especially when water levels are high.
- Montain is known for its natural monuments, historical sites, and charming villages. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from underground caves and waterfalls to ancient abbeys and scenic routes.
- The attractions around Montain are appreciated by the komoot community, with 186 photos and 449 upvotes contributing to their popularity.
Last updated: July 6, 2026
Baumes-les-Messieurs Waterfall
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Saint-Pierre Abbey, Baume-les-Messieurs
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The caves have been frequented by man since prehistoric times, but it was not until 869 that the name of Baume appeared in the texts: Lothair II, king of Burgundy, then entrusted the archbishop of Besançon with the cellula of Baume and the abbatiola of Chateau-Chalon. In fact, recent archaeological research carried out in Baume reveals that the conventual buildings of the High Middle Ages were already of importance, with windows decorated with stained glass with geometric patterns: was the monastery founded, like Gigny and Cluny, in a pre-existing domain? In any case, Bernon, abbot of Gigny, brought Baume into history when he received the cellula from it in 890. According to tradition, it was with six monks from Gigny and six from Baume that he left to found Cluny in 910.
The abbey of Baume has always sought to mark its independence from Cluny: powerful, well-endowed, it passed into commendation in the 15th century. Its successive abbots carried out numerous construction campaigns and embellishments: the current state of the abbey gives a good idea of the articulation of the spaces necessary for the life of the monks and the vestiges of a sumptuous decoration, a statuary of high quality, a remarkable altarpiece offered by the City of Ghent around 1525 recalls the past splendor of this abbey secularized in 1759. The buildings are now shared between various owners, public and private.
Around the abbey, the buildings of the village preserve the memory of agricultural activities which have long been essential to human life. For centuries, the peasants of the plateau took the very steep path of the Échelles de Crançot to bring their cereals to the communal mill of the abbey. Tourists now use this steep path to reach the belvederes from where the gaze plunges into the remoteness traversed by the Dard which springs from the caves in cascades and formerly operated many mills.
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Château-Chalon Village
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Tunnel de la Diane (Voie PLM)
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Roches Viewpoint (Overlook of the Baume-les-Messieurs reculée)
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Tips from the Community
Beautiful viewpoint "Roches de Baume" with views from the plateau into the valley and as far as Baume-les-Messieurs.
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Located at the end of the Baume-les-Messieurs valley, one of the most famous in the Jura, the waterfall is remarkable for many reasons. Its water originates from the underground river, the Dard, which emerges from the earth after a turbulent journey through the caves. The water that gushes forth here is pure and crystal-clear, emerging from a bright, green setting, creating magnificent colors.
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Magnificent view of Baume-Les-Messieurs and the surrounding rocky landscape.
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In Baume-Les-Messieurs, time seems to stand still, as this village has managed to preserve its charm so well. It's no coincidence that it has been awarded two labels, "Plus Beaux Villages de France" (Most Beautiful Villages in France) and "Cités de Caractère de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté" (Towns of Character in Burgundy-Franche-Comté).
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Founded in the 6th century and expanded by Bernon at the end of the 9th century, the building became a famous abbey, from which the monks who founded Cluny originated. The Abbey of Baume les Messieurs' prosperity began in the 11th century. In the 12th century, it assumed the title of "Imperial Abbey." In 1147, Baume was placed under the authority of Cluny. From this point on, its decline began. At the end of the 18th century, the last monks were converted into secular canons. During the French Revolution, the monks left the abbey, and part of the abbey was privatized. This Benedictine abbey today boasts an impressive architectural ensemble, some of which are typical of early Romanesque architecture in the Jura. The abbey church of Saint-Pierre dates back to the 11th century and has been a listed historic monument since 1849.
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Impressive and beautiful, the still young Dard flows over this majestic tuff waterfall.
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An impressive place with over 1,000 years of history, whose origins date back to the 6th century. It's impressive to walk through these ancient walls.
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A beautiful little town with a former Benedictine monastery, nestled in an imposing valley surrounded by high cliffs and magnificent nature. It's definitely worth a visit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural attractions can I explore around Montain?
Montain, located in the Jura area of France, is rich in natural formations. You can visit the stunning Baume-les-Messieurs Tufa Waterfall, a natural monument where water flows over tufa formations, creating a beautiful scenic spot. Another highlight is the Grottes de Baumes — Waterfall and Cave, an active water cave system with impressive stalactite formations and washed-out passages.
Are there any historical or cultural sites to visit in the Montain region?
Yes, the region offers significant historical and cultural sites. The Saint-Pierre Abbey, Baume-les-Messieurs, is a powerful and well-endowed abbey with a rich history dating back to 869. You can also explore Château-Chalon Village, classified as one of France's Most Beautiful Villages, known for its vineyards and historical charm.
What are some popular outdoor activities or trails near Montain?
The Montain area is excellent for outdoor activities, especially cycling. You can enjoy road cycling routes like the 'Col de la Percée' loop or explore the 'Belvédère du Cirque de Ladoye – Château-Chalon viewpoint' loop. For touring cyclists, there are routes such as the 'Tufs Waterfall – Baume-les-Messieurs Abbey loop'. Gravel biking is also popular, with routes like the 'Tunnel de la Diane (Voie PLM) – Révigny Metal Viaduct loop'. Find more details on these and other routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Montain, Cycling around Montain, and Gravel biking around Montain guides.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly trails around Montain?
Yes, for those seeking easier options, the 'Tufs Waterfall – Baume-les-Messieurs Abbey loop from Baume-les-Messieurs' is an easy cycling route covering about 6.6 km. The Tunnel de la Diane (Voie PLM), an old railway route converted into a greenway, offers a unique and friendly path suitable for pedestrians and cyclists of all skill levels.
What are the best viewpoints in the Montain region?
The region offers several scenic viewpoints. From the Baume-les-Messieurs Tufa Waterfall, you can get a beautiful view of Baume-les-Messieurs. The Château-Chalon Village also provides stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and landscape. Additionally, the area around Saint-Pierre Abbey offers magnificent views of Baume-les-Messieurs and the rocky landscape.
Can I find family-friendly activities in Montain?
Many attractions in Montain are suitable for families. The Tunnel de la Diane (Voie PLM) is a greenway perfect for family bike rides or walks. Exploring the Baume-les-Messieurs Tufa Waterfall offers a natural spectacle that children often enjoy. The Grottes de Baumes — Waterfall and Cave provides an exciting underground adventure, though entrance fees apply.
What makes Château-Chalon Village a must-see attraction?
Château-Chalon Village is a must-see because it's classified as one of France's Most Beautiful Villages. It's renowned for its vineyards, which produce the famous yellow wines of the Jura. Visitors can enjoy stunning views, explore local wineries, and experience the charm of a well-preserved historical settlement.
What should I know about visiting the Grottes de Baumes?
The Grottes de Baumes — Waterfall and Cave is an active water cave system featuring beautiful stalactite formations and washed-out passages. It's important to note that there is an entrance fee to access the caves. The cave was first explored in 1610, with more extensive explorations in 1893, and guided tours began in the early 20th century.
Are there any unique or 'hidden gem' attractions in the Montain area?
The Tunnel de la Diane (Voie PLM) is a unique attraction, an old railway tunnel converted into a greenway for pedestrians and cyclists. It offers a distinctive mountain route for railway enthusiasts and a pleasant, accessible experience. While not exactly 'hidden,' its conversion from an old railway line makes it a special way to experience the region.
What is the best time to visit Montain for outdoor activities?
While specific seasonal tips are not provided, the Jura area of France, where Montain is located, generally offers pleasant conditions for outdoor activities from spring through autumn. During these months, the weather is typically mild, making it ideal for cycling, hiking, and exploring natural sites like waterfalls and caves. The Baume-les-Messieurs Tufa Waterfall is particularly scenic when water levels are high, often after rainfall.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around Montain?
The Montain region, being part of the Jura area of France, is characterized by forests and natural landscapes. While specific wildlife sightings are not detailed for individual attractions, such natural environments typically support various bird species, small mammals, and insects. Exploring trails and natural monuments like the Baume-les-Messieurs Tufa Waterfall or the Grottes de Baumes — Waterfall and Cave offers opportunities to observe local flora and fauna in their natural habitats.
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