Canyons around Amathay-Vésigneux, a commune in the Doubs department of France, are characterized by a rich natural landscape that includes notable gorges and springs. While not explicitly termed "canyons," the region's gorges and dramatic rock formations offer impressive geological features. These sites provide opportunities for exploration and are appreciated for their natural beauty and unique characteristics. The area features scenic trails, powerful water features, and significant geological formations.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
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Please note that the trail has been closed since 2022. The original plan was to secure the trail until 2023, but it was then extended to 2024, but it was still closed in 2025.
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Le Bonnet is a magnificent panoramic viewpoint in the Gorges de Noailles, located in the Jura region. View of the Loue: Le Bonnet offers a breathtaking view of the Loue River. The reflections of the sun on the turquoise and emerald water are a real spectacle. After rain, the path can be slippery, so be careful and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
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This trail is superb. On the banks of the Loue, the turquoise and emerald reflections of the sun on the river pierce the foliage and offer a superb spectacle. Be careful after the rains, the path can be slippery and some bends are thin and require special attention. No problem in dry weather, but tumbling is never far away with mud.
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The main attraction is certainly the “Source de la Loue”. But it's a shame to just visit it quickly from the huge parking lot above the spring. The gorge itself is scenically rewarding. And the start upstream leads to an exciting climax.
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From the top of this belvedere, you will have a breathtaking view of the Cirque de la Source de la Loue.
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View of the Gorges de Nouailles from the Renédale belvedere. What beautiful nature!
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The Nouailles Gorges, 150 to 350 m deep, are traversed by Loue, which originates at the beginning of the gorges. Remarkable place too. The gorges end at Mouthier-Haute-Pierre. Hike to start in this village to discover the source of the Loue but be careful some passages are technical and it is better to avoid in wet weather. You will follow a section of the GR®145 or Via Francigena.
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The Renédale belvedere offers you the opposite viewpoint to that of La Roche (if you come from Mouthier-Haute-Pierre). Still spectacular. And as a bonus, from this side you have a magical view of the Cirque de la Source de la Loue. It's dizzying.
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The region around Amathay-Vésigneux is home to several impressive natural sites. The Gorges de Noailles offer a scenic path along the Loue River, leading to a striking cave where the river emerges. The Source de la Loue is a spectacular natural spring emerging from a 150-meter-high rock wall, and the Source du Pontet features a powerful waterfall and unique limestone tuff formations. These sites provide dramatic landscapes and geological interest.
Yes, the Gorges de Noailles offer a scenic and generally accessible path along the Loue River, making it suitable for families. The trail allows visitors to experience the natural beauty of the dense wood and the emerald river. While some sections might be slippery after rain, the overall experience is rewarding for various age groups.
You can expect to see dramatic rock formations, powerful natural springs, and picturesque river paths. Highlights include the impressive 150-meter-high rock wall at the Source de la Loue, the tiered waterfalls where the Loue River emerges from a cave in the Gorges de Noailles, and the unique limestone tuff formations at the Source du Pontet. The area is rich in geological curiosities and lush riverine landscapes.
The area around Amathay-Vésigneux is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking, with numerous trails available, including those leading through the gorges. For cycling enthusiasts, there are options for gravel biking and traffic-free bike rides. Explore routes like the 'Cléron Castle – Ornans loop' for gravel biking or 'Old Bridge of Vuillafans – Old water mill loop' for hiking. Find more details on routes in the Hiking around Amathay-Vésigneux and Gravel biking around Amathay-Vésigneux guides.
Yes, there are several excellent viewpoints. The Renédale Viewpoint offers a breathtaking perspective of the Cirque de la Source de la Loue and the deeply cut gorge. Additionally, Le Bonnet provides a magnificent panoramic view within the Gorges de Noailles, showcasing the Loue River's vibrant reflections.
The natural sites around Amathay-Vésigneux are beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, though paths might be busier. Be mindful that paths, especially in the Gorges de Noailles, can be slippery after rain, regardless of the season.
Visitors highly appreciate the stunning natural beauty and the rewarding hiking experiences. The emerald and turquoise reflections of the Loue River, the dramatic rock formations, and the powerful emergence of springs like the Source de la Loue are frequently praised. The peaceful atmosphere of walking through dense woods and discovering hidden caves also adds to the appeal.
Yes, the Source de la Loue holds artistic significance. The famous French painter Gustave Courbet found inspiration in its caves, waterfalls, and gorges, making it a site of interest for those appreciating both nature and art history.
Exploring the Gorges de Noailles involves a scenic path along the Loue River. The duration depends on your pace and how much time you spend admiring the views and the cave at the end. A leisurely hike could take a few hours, allowing ample time to enjoy the natural spectacle.
While popular, the various viewpoints and sections of the gorges offer different experiences. For a different perspective, consider the Renédale Viewpoint, which provides a spectacular view of the Cirque de la Source de la Loue. Visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays can also help avoid larger crowds at popular spots.
Paths along the gorges, particularly in the Gorges de Noailles, can become slippery after rain. Some bends are narrow and require special attention. It's advisable to wear appropriate footwear and exercise caution, especially during wet conditions.


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