HAUT JURA WALK

This relaxing walking holiday explores the Haut Jura, a high plateau of glacial lakes, flower-filled meadows, limestone gorges and thick spruce forests that are carpeted with wolfsbane and harebells. Locals here live in “ tavaillons”(thatched wooden chalets) that are clustered around mushroom domed churches in traditional Alpine villages. And artisans carry on with the traditional crafts of wood carving, cheese-making and gem cutting as they have for centuries.

Your circular route links four high characterful mountain villages. Walking mainly above the treeline – the plateau is at 1000m – you enjoy breathtaking Alpine views without having to work too hard for them! Highlights include ascending the Crêt de Pela for views over Mont Blanc and Aiguille du Midi, enjoying lunch at Septmoncel by the dramatic Flumen Gorge, and contemplating Lake Geneva shimmering below you from the summit of the Col de la Faucille (1,339m).

The hotels we use are friendly, comfortable and specially geared to walkers. One of our favourites has to be Monsieur Peyron’s in La Cure, right on the Franco Swiss border. You could well find yourself sleeping with your head in Switzerland and your feet in France! And you’ll be entertained with his tales of how his grandfather would hide RAF pilots in the attic while serving German troops in the bar! And our two hotels in Les Rousses and Lamoura have the advantage of being within walking distance of the pretty village lakes, so you can enjoy a swim at the end of your hike. In the evenings, you’ll be offered dishes reflecting traditional mountain fayre: fonduemade with the delicious local Bleu de Gex, or saucisse morteau avec pommes de terre à l’ail(lightly spiced sausage with garlic roast potatoes).

For more infomation about this holiday, including hotel descriptions, travel options and full holiday itinerary, please see our new 'further details' section.