Best natural monuments around Fontain offer a diverse landscape featuring waterfalls, unique rock formations, and historical sites. The region provides opportunities to explore natural arches, impressive water features, and elevated viewpoints. These natural monuments contribute to the area's appeal for outdoor activities and nature observation. Fontain's terrain includes varied natural features, making it a destination for those interested in geological formations and scenic vistas.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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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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Visitors to Fontain highly appreciate several natural monuments. Among them, The Holed Rock stands out as a natural rock arch, offering opportunities for exploration and enjoying unique rock formations. The impressive Bout du Monde Waterfall, reaching 50 meters, is another favorite, though its visibility depends on rainfall. For those interested in history and panoramic views, the Liberation Monument provides a sweeping vista over Besançon and the Doubs plains.
For stunning views, the Liberation Monument is an excellent choice, offering a panorama over the city of Besançon and the plains of the Doubs. Another great spot is Chère Cave, which provides a beautiful viewpoint of the Doubs valley and features a rock gate directly below.
Yes, the Liberation Monument is considered family-friendly, offering a historical site with a viewpoint that can be enjoyed by all ages. Additionally, the State Major Fountain is also family-friendly and wheelchair accessible, making it a convenient stop for families.
The Fontain region is known for its diverse natural features, including impressive waterfalls like the Bout du Monde Waterfall, unique rock formations such as The Holed Rock, and scenic gorges near Chère Cave. The landscape offers a mix of water features, geological structures, and elevated viewpoints.
Absolutely. The Liberation Monument is a significant historical site and memorial dedicated to the victims of the Second World War, offering a poignant experience alongside its panoramic views. The State Major Fountain is another historical monument, a decorative corner fountain from 1900 with inscriptions reflecting Besançon's motto.
The area around Fontain's natural monuments is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy road cycling on routes like the 'Banks of Western Besançon Loop' or 'La Vallée de l'Ognon'. For runners, there are trails such as the 'Bout du Monde Waterfall – La Montée des Vanches loop' or the 'Mont des Buis loop'. Cycling tours are also popular, with options like the 'Small loop around the city center of Besançon' or 'The Doubs – Citadel of Besançon loop'. You can find more details on these activities and routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Fontain, Running Trails around Fontain, and Cycling around Fontain guides.
Yes, many natural monuments in Fontain are accessible via trails. For instance, The Holed Rock is easily accessible on a signposted path. The area around the Bout du Monde Waterfall also features running trails, such as the 'Bout du Monde Waterfall – La Montée des Vanches loop'. The path to Chère Cave leads from a meadow through a wooded slope to the lookout point.
The Bout du Monde Waterfall is a classified natural site, notable for its impressive 50-meter drop, emanating from the Mercureaux stream. It's unique because its flow is directly dependent on rainfall, meaning it can be quite spectacular after heavy rains but may be less visible during dry periods. The surrounding area also features a well-preserved period wash house.
Yes, Fontain offers opportunities to explore both caves and unique rock formations. Chère Cave allows visitors to climb down into a rock gate with easy scrambling. The Holed Rock is a natural rock arch, perfect for those who enjoy exploring geological structures and testing the echo of its vault.
Yes, the State Major Fountain is listed as wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, making it a convenient and inclusive site for all visitors to enjoy its historical and decorative significance.
Visitors particularly enjoy the diverse landscapes, from impressive waterfalls and unique rock formations to historical viewpoints. The opportunity for exploration, the panoramic vistas over Besançon and the Doubs plains, and the blend of natural beauty with historical significance are frequently highlighted. The community has shared 29 photos and given 101 upvotes, reflecting a strong appreciation for these sites.
While specific wildlife spotting data for Fontain's monuments isn't detailed, the region's diverse natural landscapes, including waterfalls and wooded areas, suggest opportunities for nature observation. The Liberation Monument, for example, is classified by the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO) as a privileged place for bird watching, where birds of prey are often seen.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Fontain: