Best natural monuments around Serre-Les-Sapins include diverse natural attractions west of Besançon in the Doubs department. The landscape features forests, valleys, and unique geological formations. These sites offer opportunities to explore natural features and scenic views, often accessible via hiking trails. The area provides a variety of natural monuments for outdoor enthusiasts.
Last updated: July 16, 2026
Highlight • Waterfall
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Highlight • Historical Site
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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 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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First of all, here you have a beautiful official viewpoint
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The region around Serre-les-Sapins offers diverse natural attractions. You can discover wooded valleys, such as the Bois de Peu, with wild, rocky crevices and superb views over the Doubs valley. There are also picturesque gorges and waterfalls, including the Cascade du Bout du Monde, and unique geological formations like the Holed Rock in the Martelin woods.
Yes, the Liberation Monument is listed as family-friendly. While primarily a historical site and viewpoint, its accessible location and panoramic views make it suitable for families. Additionally, the Forêt Communale de la Ménère offers numerous marked hiking trails that are generally pleasant for family walks.
For stunning views, the Liberation Monument offers a comprehensive panorama over the city of Besançon and the plains of the Doubs. Another excellent spot is the Bois de Peu, which provides various points with superb views overlooking the Doubs valley. The Chère Cave area also provides a very nice viewpoint of the Doubs valley.
The most prominent waterfall is the Bout du Monde Waterfall, a classified natural site reaching an impressive height of 50 meters. It originates from the Mercureaux stream. It's important to note that its visibility depends on recent rainfall. The Gorges and Waterfalls of the Pisseur also offer picturesque natural spectacles.
Absolutely. You can explore the Holed Rock (Roche Trouée) in the Martelin woods, a natural rock arch over 4 meters high and almost 10 meters wide. The Chère Cave offers an opportunity to explore subterranean formations and provides access to a rock gate. The Malpertuis Cave is also listed among the natural sites accessible from hiking routes in the area.
The area around Serre-les-Sapins is excellent for cycling. You can find various routes for road cycling, gravel biking, and general cycling. For example, there are numerous road cycling routes like the 'Citadel Tunnel – Citadel of Besançon loop' and gravel biking options such as 'Just Doubs it'. You can explore more options on the Road Cycling Routes around Serre-Les-Sapins guide, the Gravel biking around Serre-Les-Sapins guide, and the Cycling around Serre-Les-Sapins guide.
Visitors particularly appreciate the unobstructed views, opportunities for exploration, and unique rock formations. The Holed Rock is a favorite for its impressive natural arch and echo. The scenic beauty, tranquil forest walks, and the chance to discover geological interests are also highly valued by the komoot community, with over 100 upvotes and 29 photos shared across the natural monuments.
Yes, the Liberation Monument is a significant memorial site that also offers panoramic views over Besançon and the Doubs plains. It's located on Mont des Buis, within the moats of a former fortress, blending historical remembrance with a beautiful natural setting. The State Major Fountain, a decorative monument from 1900, also adds a touch of history to the area's charm.
For waterfalls like the Bout du Monde Waterfall, the best time to visit is typically after periods of significant rainfall, as the flow is directly dependent on precipitation. During dry spells, the waterfall may be less impressive or even invisible. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for exploring the forests and valleys, with lush greenery or vibrant fall colors.
Absolutely. The Forêt Communale de la Ménère, covering 166 hectares, is an excellent place for peaceful forest walks, offering numerous marked hiking trails. The Bois de Peu also provides a serene environment for scenic walks amidst its wooded valleys and slender trees.
Beyond the well-known highlights, the region's charm lies in its diverse landscapes often integrated into hiking trails. The Malpertuis Cave, mentioned in local research, is one such spot accessible from hiking routes. The enhanced natural pond near the historical Souvelaine and Pierreley fountains also offers a serene, semi-rural ambiance that might be considered a hidden gem for quiet contemplation.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Serre-Les-Sapins: