Attractions and places to see around Esserval-Tartre, a commune in the Jura department of France, offer a range of natural and cultural experiences. The region is characterized by its diverse natural landscapes, including gorges, waterfalls, springs, and unique wetlands. Visitors can explore historical towns and engage in various outdoor activities. This area serves as a starting point for discovering the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the broader Jura Mountains.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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Added to the collection: komoot.com/de-de/collection/3600632/-naturdenkmaeler-besondere-baeume-und-weitere-schaetze-der-natur
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The Serpentine, (first tributary of the Ain river whose source is located a little higher) forms a small lake near the ruins of a mill. It is from a cornice that this beautiful natural waterfall 15 meters high comes to life when the water level is sufficient.
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This city in the Middle Ages was a highly strategic place. For more than 300 years, from the 13th to the 16th century, its inhabitants controlled the commercial exploitation of salt by establishing rights of passage for merchants who went to Switzerland. So you will find in its center many beautiful period houses, irrefutable testimonies of this ancient wealth. The castle of the princes of Oranges was destroyed, and did not stand the test of time.
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Very impressive, about 1 km walk from the parking lot nearby, swimming not possible and not recommended
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The river seems to weave through cracks in the bedrock before flowing into a crystal clear pool. Amazing geography.
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At the source of the Ain, you will find footbridges and interpretation panels to help you navigate and understand the site. A beautiful and relaxing place to spend time.
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The region around Esserval-Tartre is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the impressive Maillys Falls, where the river flows through bedrock into a clear pool. Another must-see is the Ain Spring, the source of the Ain river, offering a relaxing spot with footbridges. Don't miss the Moulin du Saut Waterfall, a 15-meter high cascade near old mill ruins. The Gorges de la Lemme and Gorges de la Langouette also offer stunning scenery, and the Tourbières et Mares du plateau de Nozeroy, including the Mare aux Demoiselles, are important wetlands for biodiversity.
Yes, the nearby medieval town of Nozeroy is a significant historical site. It was strategically important for centuries due to its control over salt trade, and its center still features beautiful period houses reflecting its past wealth. You can also find the Passage Antique de Chalamont, which features ancient cart ruts carved into the rock, offering a glimpse into historical transport routes.
Esserval-Tartre is an excellent starting point for various hiking trails. You can find routes exploring the Forêt de la Joux, around the Source de l'Ain, and the Circuit des Tourbières. For specific running routes, consider options like “The Source of the Ain – Maillys Falls loop from Nozeroy” or shorter “Running loop from Nozeroy”. You can find more details on these and other trails in the Running Trails around Esserval-Tartre guide.
Absolutely. The Ain Spring is considered family-friendly, with footbridges and interpretive panels that make it an engaging and relaxing spot for all ages. The Mare aux Demoiselles, part of the Tourbières et Mares du plateau de Nozeroy, is also an excellent educational resource for discovering biodiversity, with information stands designed with children in mind. Many of the easier hiking trails are also suitable for families.
From elevated points around Esserval-Tartre, you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views. These vantage points often offer vistas of the Haute Joux massif, the Nozeroy plateau, and its many charming villages. On clear days, you might even spot distant massifs like La Dôle, Le Chasseron, the Aiguilles de Baulmes, and Le Suchet.
The region offers diverse cycling experiences. Road cyclists can explore routes like “Les Gorges de La Saine — loop from Nozeroy” or “Moulin du Saut Waterfall – Old viaduct loop from Censeau”. For gravel biking, options include “ReMouthable” or “Clock Tower – Nozeroy loop from Nozeroy”. Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Esserval-Tartre guide and the Gravel biking around Esserval-Tartre guide.
Yes, the area is home to unique natural monuments. One notable example is The President Fir of Levier, a magnificent tree that is part of a collection of 'must-see' trees in the region. Planning an itinerary around these large trees can be a rewarding experience.
The region provides opportunities for various water-based activities. You can enjoy fishing in local rivers and lakes, or go swimming in local pools. Nearby lakes such as Lac des Rousses, Lac de Fort du Plasne, and Lac de Saint-Point also offer recreational opportunities for visitors.
Visitors particularly appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the area. For instance, the Ain Spring is described as a beautiful and relaxing place to spend time, with impressive amounts of water right at the source. The Moulin du Saut Waterfall is noted for its amazing cascade, especially when water levels are high.
The Jura Mountains are renowned for their extensive cave systems. While not directly in Esserval-Tartre, nearby sites like the caves at Baume-les-Messieurs, Moidons, Osselle, and the Chasm of Poudrey offer guided tours and opportunities for potholing, allowing you to explore fascinating geological wonders beneath the surface.
The region is beautiful in any season, but for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn showcases stunning fall colors. Summer is ideal for water activities, though trails can be busier. Winter offers opportunities for snow-related activities, depending on conditions.
Yes, the Tourbières et Mares du plateau de Nozeroy are significant wetlands in the area. The Mare aux Demoiselles, located within Esserval-Tartre, is particularly noteworthy. These peat bogs and ponds are crucial for water regulation and purification, hosting rare and threatened flora and fauna, and serve as excellent educational sites.


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