Top 20 Natural Monuments around Clos du Doubs
Best natural monuments around Clos du Doubs are found within the picturesque Jura mountains of Switzerland. This region is defined by its diverse landscapes, including the Doubs River and several natural reserves. The area provides opportunities to explore significant natural features and observe local wildlife. It is a destination for those seeking to connect with natural environments.
Best natural monuments around Clos du Doubs
- The most popular natural monuments is Étang de la Gruère, a lake that is a nature reserve, offering tranquility and opportunities to observe mists over the water. It is particularly recommended for early morning visits.
- Another must-see spot is Étang Plain-de-Saigne, a lake that is a raised bog and peat bog of national importance. It is also a significant birdwatching spot and a peaceful place to rest.
- Visitors also love Lucelle Lake, a lake located on the border with France, known for its wild and romantic character. Visitors can observe waterfowl and enjoy a 2 km loop trail around the lake.
- Clos du Doubs is known for its lakes, rivers, and caves. The region features a variety of natural monuments, including protected areas and viewpoints.
- The natural monuments around Clos du Doubs are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 400 upvotes and over 300 photos shared.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Étang de la Gruère
Highlight • Lake
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Lucelle Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Étang Plain-de-Saigne
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Doubs
Highlight (Segment) • River
A special feature is the border of the Doubs along the French-Swiss border. Unlike in rivers otherwise common, the border does not run in the middle of the river, but the Doubs belongs there entirely to France. This resulted from treaties between the Prince-Bishop of Basel and the King of France.
Flowing west from Saint-Ursanne, the Doubs returns to France and flows below Saint-Hippolyte, where it takes on Dessoubre on the left, through a Montagnes du Lomont valley north to Audincourt. Here he takes right after the Allaine, then turns in its lower reaches to the southwest and strives over Baume-les-Dames, Besançon and Dole, where he takes on the left Loue, the Saône, in which he in 170 m height in Verdun-sur-le-Doubs about 16 km northeast of Chalon-sur-Saône opens.
Source: Wikipedia
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Grotto of Sainte-Colombe
Highlight • Cave
Inside the grotto, a small karst spring rises. The water flows as a trickle from a stalagmite into a shallow basin. There is a crucifix under the entrance arch of the grotto, which is dedicated to Saint Columba of Sens, a martyr from the 3rd century. Since the 13th century, the place has been the destination of a pilgrimage that takes place on August 15th. The spring water is said to have miraculous healing powers.
More: de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grotte_de_Sainte-Colombe
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Idyllically situated at the end of the Lützeltal.
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While the prosperous times in the town of Lucelle are over, the Lac de Lucelle is a nature reserve that captivates with its peace, idyll and beauty. The lake can be easily walked around on a well-developed nature trail, and there are many benches where you can watch the ducks and fish in the lake.
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The Etang de la Gruère nature reserve is a paradise for nature lovers. Opt for a morning hike to enjoy the calm, and to observe the rising mists over the water.
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The Source du Doubs is a powerful karst spring in a heavily karstified area of the Jura Mountains. It is located near Mouthe, in the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, at an altitude of 937 m at the foot of the wooded, up to 1419 m high Mont Risoux mountain range, which marks the border between France and Switzerland. The Doubs rises from a cave in the rock from a small, approximately five-meter-deep spring basin. The spring discharges an average of 1740 litres per second and is the exit of a complex cave system with several siphons. The discharge can vary greatly. Several layers of rock can be distinguished on the rock above the spring. Below the spring, the river plunges down over a small waterfall. About two kilometers below the Source du Doubs, the approximately nine-kilometer-long Cébriot flows into the Doubs.
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Imposing grotto and at the same time a place of pilgrimage. Here you should switch from the hiking trail near the bridge to the road and pause for a moment and enjoy the gentle coolness and refresh yourself with the water from the Karlsquelle (which is said to have healing powers). A small karst spring arises inside the cave. The water flows as a trickle from a stalagmite into a shallow basin. There is a crucifix under the entrance arch of the grotto, dedicated to Saint Columba of Sens, a 3rd century martyr. The place has been the destination of a pilgrimage on August 15th since the 13th century. The spring water is said to have miraculous healing powers. More: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grotte_de_Sainte-Colombe
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Lake Lucelle is the smallest in Switzerland and is located in a protected natural area near the French border. The trail around the lake is a comfortable and mostly flat 2km loop, with only 30m of elevation gain and loss. You can enjoy the view of the sparkling water, colorful vegetation and secluded houses on the other side of the lake. Whether you want to run fast or slow, Lake Lucelle offers a delightful experience for trail runners of all levels.
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The Plain-de-Saigne pond is a small artificial lake located in Montfaucon. It's a great place to picnic and admire the reflections of the sky and trees on the water. You can also learn about the history of the lake, which was once home to a mill and peat extraction site.
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Grotto in the rock with many thank you plaques.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit in the Clos du Doubs region?
The Clos du Doubs region offers several remarkable natural monuments. Among the most popular are Étang de la Gruère, a tranquil nature reserve known for its early morning mists, and Étang Plain-de-Saigne, a significant raised bog and peat bog important for birdwatching. Visitors also highly appreciate Lucelle Lake, a wild and romantic lake on the French border with a pleasant loop trail. The Doubs River itself, with its untouched gorges and the impressive Saut du Doubs Waterfall, is also a central natural highlight.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in Clos du Doubs?
Yes, many natural monuments in the Clos du Doubs region are suitable for families. Étang de la Gruère, Lucelle Lake, and Étang Plain-de-Saigne all offer easy trails and opportunities for nature observation. The Grotto of Sainte-Colombe is also a family-friendly spot, offering a unique natural and historical experience. The Doubs River provides opportunities for gentle walks and enjoying the riverside environment.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the natural monuments in Clos du Doubs?
The nature reserves and natural monuments in Clos du Doubs are rich in wildlife. You can often spot diverse bird species, especially at Étang Plain-de-Saigne and Lucelle Lake, where waterfowl like ducks and gray herons are common. The wider region is also home to larger mammals such as deer and wild boar, offering opportunities for wildlife watching in their natural habitats.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments in Clos du Doubs?
The Clos du Doubs region is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous hiking trails, enjoy scenic running routes, or embark on cycling tours. For detailed routes and guides, you can check out the Hiking around Clos du Doubs, Running Trails around Clos du Doubs, and Cycling around Clos du Doubs guides.
Are there specific hiking trails around the natural monuments?
Yes, there are several trails that allow you to explore the natural monuments. For instance, Lucelle Lake features a comfortable and mostly flat 2 km loop trail. The area around Mont Terri offers an extensive network of hiking and walking trails. You can find more options, including routes like 'On the banks of the Doubs — loop from Saint-Ursanne' or 'Around Saint-Ursanne town — loop', in the Hiking around Clos du Doubs guide.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments in Clos du Doubs?
The natural monuments in Clos du Doubs can be enjoyed throughout the year, but spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. For a particularly tranquil experience at Étang de la Gruère, an early morning visit is recommended to witness the rising mists over the water.
Are there any viewpoints offering panoramic views of the region?
Yes, the Clos du Doubs region boasts several excellent viewpoints. Mont Terri is a notable summit that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Jura mountains and landscapes. Many trails around the lakes, such as Étang de la Gruère and Lucelle Lake, also offer scenic vistas.
Can I find places to rest or have a picnic near the natural monuments?
Yes, many natural monuments provide amenities for visitors. Étang Plain-de-Saigne has benches and tables, and even a fireplace, making it a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy the natural beauty. Similarly, the areas around Étang de la Gruère and Lucelle Lake offer serene spots to relax.
What makes the Doubs River a significant natural monument?
The Doubs River is a central natural monument, defining much of the region's character. In the Clos du Doubs, it forms an awe-inspiring, untouched gorge in places. It's popular for water-based activities like canoeing and kayaking, and known for its river trout, making it a popular spot for fishing. The river also plays a crucial role in forming the Doubs Nature Park and offers opportunities for multi-day walks along its banks from St-Ursanne.
Is there a natural monument with historical or religious significance?
Yes, the Grotto of Sainte-Colombe is a romantic rock cave that serves as an impressive grotto and pilgrimage site. It features a small karst spring whose water is believed to have healing powers. Dedicated to Saint Columba of Sens, it has been a pilgrimage destination since the 13th century and offers a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual history.
Are there any circular walking routes around the natural monuments?
Yes, circular walks are available. For example, Lucelle Lake offers a 2 km loop trail that is comfortable and mostly flat. Many other trails in the region, such as 'Around Saint-Ursanne town — loop' or 'On the banks of the Doubs — loop from Saint-Ursanne', are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. You can explore more options in the Hiking around Clos du Doubs guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Clos du Doubs?
Visitors consistently praise the tranquility and untouched natural beauty of the Clos du Doubs region. They particularly enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of places like Étang de la Gruère, the wild and romantic character of Lucelle Lake, and the opportunities for birdwatching at Étang Plain-de-Saigne. The blend of serene landscapes, diverse wildlife, and varied outdoor activities makes it a rewarding destination for nature lovers.
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