Top 5 Natural Monuments around École-Valentin
Natural monuments around École-Valentin offer diverse natural features for exploration. The area is characterized by its local flora, including an Arboretum within École-Valentin itself. The broader region features landscapes shaped by the River Doubs and its surrounding forests. These sites provide opportunities to observe regional biodiversity and geological formations.
Best natural monuments around École-Valentin
- The most popular natural monuments is The Holed Rock, a natural rock formation that is easily accessible on a signposted path. It features a natural…
Last updated: June 18, 2026
Bout du Monde Waterfall
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Arcier Springs
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You will be able to see the castle of Arcier there as well as the ruins of the old Roman aqueduct of Besançon.
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Liberation Monument
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The Mémorial Notre-Dame de …
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The Holed Rock
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It also has the advantage and the comfort of being placed on …
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State Major Fountain
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Tips from the Community
The waterfall is impressive even when it's carrying little water. Unfortunately, it can only be seen from the small path leading down from the road. The area at the base of the waterfall is private and extensively fenced. I found that a shame.
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The three Arcier springs are fed by the infiltration waters of the Nancray plateau. Shortly after they gush out of the mountain in beautiful waterfalls, they come together to form the Arcier stream, which quickly flows into the Doubs. They have been known since antiquity, and supply Besançon with water via a Roman aqueduct of which remains remain. Currently, a trout fish farm benefits from its pure, fresh waters.
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The area around the waterfall is cordoned off, so that it is actually inaccessible and can only be seen from afar. The "standing seats" that have been set up are friendly, but do not really add value to the barbed wire. You can get closer to the waterfall from above, but you should do this with caution!!
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Decorative monument in Besançon
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Corner fountain created in 1900 by the sculptor Pasche based on the drawings of the architect Saint-Ginest. This monumental fountain replaced a fountain created in 1740 that was destroyed during the Revolution. The inscription "UTINAM" engraved under the pediment is the motto of Besançon, which can also be found engraved on other monuments in the form "PLÛT A DIEU".
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Notre-Dame de la Libération is a site of memory built on the Mont des Buis inside the ditches of an old fort which dominates the city of Besançon. After the Second World War, in 1949, a place of commemoration and memory was built on the site of Fort des Buis-est. A crypt is topped with a statue of the Virgin Mary. Inside the crypt, there are the names of the 5,500 Besançon people who died during the war.
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The Mémorial Notre-Dame de la Libération in the Chapelle des Buis is a memorial site erected in memory of the victims of the Second World War. The Mémorial Notre-Dame de la Libération is located on the Mont des Buis, within the moats of a former fortress, which overlooks the city of Besançon at an altitude of almost 500 meters. This memorial dominates the city and houses a crypt with more than 5,500 names engraved in stone. These names represent both civilian and military victims from the departments of Doubs, Haute Saône and Territoire de Belfort. The Mémorial Notre-Dame de la Libération is a place of memory and tribute to those who gave their lives during one of the most turbulent periods in history. A religious and military ceremony is held annually on September 1 at this special place to commemorate the victims.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most appreciated natural monuments around École-Valentin?
Visitors particularly enjoy The Holed Rock, a natural rock arch over 4 meters high and nearly 10 meters wide, easily accessible via a signposted path. Another favorite is the impressive Bout du Monde Waterfall, which cascades from the Mercureaux stream at a height of 50 meters. The Liberation Monument is also highly regarded, offering panoramic views over Besançon and the Doubs plains.
Are there any family-friendly natural sites in École-Valentin?
Yes, the Liberation Monument is considered family-friendly and offers both historical significance and a beautiful viewpoint. Additionally, the Arboretum within École-Valentin is a pleasant and educational spot for families to explore local flora and observe different tree species throughout the seasons.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see?
The region boasts diverse natural features. You can discover impressive waterfalls like the Bout du Monde Waterfall, unique rock formations such as The Holed Rock, and even caves like the Chère Cave, which also offers a great viewpoint over the Doubs valley.
Are there historical sites among the natural monuments?
Yes, the Liberation Monument is a significant memorial site dedicated to the victims of the Second World War, located on Mont des Buis with commanding views. While primarily a natural monument, the State Major Fountain is also a historical decorative monument from 1900.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around École-Valentin?
The best time can depend on what you wish to see. For instance, the Bout du Monde Waterfall is most impressive after periods of rainfall, as its flow is dependent on precipitation. The Arboretum is enjoyable year-round, offering different characteristics of trees through changing seasons. Spring and autumn generally provide pleasant weather for exploring viewpoints and trails.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The area around École-Valentin offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, gravel biking, and running. These routes often pass by or offer views of the natural monuments, providing opportunities for active exploration.
Are there easy hikes or accessible natural sites for everyone?
While some natural monuments involve intermediate terrain, the Arboretum in École-Valentin offers a pleasant and easy pedestrian path suitable for a relaxed stroll. The The Holed Rock is also easily accessible on a signposted path. For specific accessibility needs, it's always recommended to check individual site details.
Can I observe local wildlife at these natural monuments?
Yes, the natural environments around École-Valentin, including the Arboretum and the forests surrounding the River Doubs, are home to local biodiversity. The Liberation Monument, for example, is classified by the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO) as a privileged place for bird watching, especially for birds of prey.
Where can I find unique viewpoints of the region?
Several natural monuments double as excellent viewpoints. The Liberation Monument offers a comprehensive panorama of Besançon and the Doubs plains. The Chère Cave also provides a very nice viewpoint of the Doubs valley. Additionally, The Holed Rock is appreciated by lovers of unobstructed views.
Are there any hidden natural gems worth discovering near École-Valentin?
While not strictly 'hidden,' the Chère Cave offers a unique experience, allowing you to climb down through the cave to a plateau with a fireplace and rock gate, providing a different perspective of the Doubs valley. The Arboretum, though well-known locally, is a dedicated natural site within École-Valentin itself that provides a focused look at regional flora.
What should I know about visiting the Bout du Monde Waterfall?
The Bout du Monde Waterfall is a classified natural site reaching 50 meters in height. It's important to note that its visibility depends on rainfall; during dry periods, the waterfall may be less impressive or even invisible. Planning your visit after some rain will ensure you see it at its best.
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