Des Franches-Montagnes au Doubs

From the Freiberge Mountains to the banks of the Doubs. From Noirmont, the trail in the Doubs Nature Park descends down to the river and up to Sommêtre ridge, a narrow, steep cliff dropping into the valley. The views across the Doubs Valley and of the French Jura are very scenic.

From Le Noirmont railway station, this roughly 15-kilometre circuit initially leads out of the village. Broad hiking trails soon enter the forest and steadily lose elevation. After the long descent, the lowest point is reached at just over 500 m – and the demanding part of the route now begins.

The path climbs again and becomes a steeper mountain trail. Between the trees, the cliffs of the Arête des Sommêtres draw closer. A short section is unmarked before the route reaches the Spiegelberg ruins. Perched on the rugged ridge above the Doubs Valley, they form the hike’s most striking landmark. Shortly afterwards, the circuit reaches its highest point at around 1,080 m.

The route returns to easier hiking trails through predominantly wooded terrain. Towards the end, houses reappear, and the church of Saint-Hubert heralds the approach to Le Noirmont. After just under five hours and around 760 metres of ascent, the circuit ends back at the railway station.