Attractions and Places To See around Lombard - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Lombard include a variety of historical sites, natural wonders, and scenic routes. The region features significant man-made structures like canal tunnels and UNESCO World Heritage sites, alongside natural caves. Visitors can explore areas along the Doubs river and enjoy well-developed cycle paths. The landscape offers a mix of cultural heritage and outdoor exploration opportunities.
Best attractions and places to see around Lombard
- The most popular attractions is Thoraise Tunnel, a historical site and man-made monument that allows passage for boats and pedestrians. It is notable for its water curtain at the entrance and its role in shortening navigation on the Doubs river.
- Another must-see spot is Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans, a UNESCO World Heritage site and historical factory. Visitors can explore the five-hectare enclosure, which was once a major salt production facility built by architect Claude Nicolas Ledoux.
- Visitors also love EuroVelo 6: Doubs and Rhône-Rhine Canal from Beure to Ranchot, a well-maintained cycle way. This route offers scenic cycling along canals and rivers, providing a family friendly outdoor activity with no car traffic.
- Lombard is known for its historical sites, natural monuments, and extensive cycle paths. The area offers a variety of attractions, from underground caves to architectural marvels and outdoor recreational routes.
- The attractions around Lombard are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 350 upvotes and over 110 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Thoraise Tunnel
Highlight • Historical Site
On the upstream side, pay attention to the curtain of water covering the entrance to the tunnel.
On the downstream side, at the exit you will find a lock which will allow you to join the main Rhine-Rhône canal.
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Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans
Highlight • Monument
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Osselle Cave
Highlight • Natural Monument
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EuroVelo 6: Doubs and Rhône-Rhine Canal from Beure to Ranchot
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
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🇨🇵 France 12 Dole - Besançon
Highlight (Segment) • Other
In 2015, both regions were merged to form the new Bourgogne Franche Comté region.
On this section, the Rhine-Rhone canal flows for large parts in the bed of the Doubs, which has its source in the Swiss Alps.
Besançon is the capital of Franche-Comté, voted the "greenest city in France", and the city of art and history; Besançon has 184 buildings classified as Historic Monuments.
Vauban's fortifications are a UNESCO World Heritage Site (citadel, city walls and Fort Griffon).
The Rhine-Rhone Canal is a watershed canal that overcomes a total height difference of around 280 meters, of which 170 meters are on the Saône valley side, which are overcome with 82 locks, and 110 meters on the Rhine side, which requires 40 locks.
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Tips from the Community
According to the listing: Pets welcome https://de.montagnes-du-jura.fr/sit/grotte-dosselle
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Does anyone know if you can go in there with a dog?
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If you would like to visit the saltworks and the exhibitions in addition to the walk, you should plan at least 90 minutes.
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A ship tunnel (1810) that can be walked through from the side as a shortcut for the Le Doubs river canal. On the other side of the canal there is a lock about 3-4 m high. There is a water curtain at both portals and the interior is beautifully and decoratively lit. Worth seeing.
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With today's start in Dole, we have left the Burgundy region, which was independent until 2015, and are now also moving into the former Franche Comté region, which existed until 2015. In 2015, both regions were merged to form the new Bourgogne Franche Comté region. On this section, the Rhine-Rhone canal flows for large parts in the bed of the Doubs, which has its source in the Swiss Alps. Besançon is the capital of Franche-Comté, voted the "greenest city in France", and the city of art and history; Besançon has 184 buildings classified as Historic Monuments. Vauban's fortifications are a UNESCO World Heritage Site (citadel, city walls and Fort Griffon). The Rhine-Rhone Canal is a watershed canal that overcomes a total height difference of around 280 meters, of which 170 meters are on the Saône valley side, which are overcome with 82 locks, and 110 meters on the Rhine side, which requires 40 locks.
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It is also possible to walk through the tunnel.
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If you want to venture underground, you've come to the right place. A 1200 meter long cave discovered in the 13th century, it has been visited since 1504, making it one of the two oldest tourist caves in the world. Its underground river, its dry gallery and its incredibly colorful geological formations will not leave you indifferent. Neither is the fact that the first cave bear skeleton was discovered there.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I visit around Lombard?
The region offers significant historical sites such as the Thoraise Tunnel, a man-made monument notable for its water curtain and role in river navigation. Another must-see is the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans, a UNESCO World Heritage site and former salt production facility.
Are there any UNESCO World Heritage sites in the Lombard area?
Yes, the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans is a UNESCO World Heritage site. This historic factory, built by architect Claude Nicolas Ledoux, offers visitors a glimpse into 18th-century industrial architecture and salt production.
What natural attractions are there to explore near Lombard?
For natural wonders, you can visit the Osselle Cave. It is one of the oldest tourist caves in the world, featuring impressive stalactites, stalagmites, and an underground river. It's known for its incredibly colorful geological formations.
Are there opportunities for cycling or biking near Lombard?
Absolutely. The EuroVelo 6: Doubs and Rhône-Rhine Canal from Beure to Ranchot is a well-maintained cycle way offering scenic routes along canals and rivers, free from car traffic. For more challenging rides, you can explore various MTB Trails or Gravel Biking routes around Lombard.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Lombard?
Yes, the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans is considered family-friendly, offering an engaging historical experience. Additionally, the EuroVelo 6 cycle path provides a safe and enjoyable outdoor activity for families, with no car traffic.
Where can I find trails for outdoor activities like running or mountain biking?
Lombard offers several options for outdoor enthusiasts. You can find dedicated Running Trails, as well as extensive MTB Trails and Gravel Biking routes in the surrounding area. These guides provide details on various routes with different difficulty levels.
Are there any dog-friendly attractions near Lombard?
Yes, the Osselle Cave is a dog-friendly attraction. You can explore this fascinating underground world with your canine companion, making it a great option for pet owners.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Lombard?
Visitors particularly appreciate the unique experiences offered, such as passing through the Thoraise Tunnel with its distinctive water curtain. The well-maintained and scenic EuroVelo 6 cycle path is also highly praised for its beautiful landscape and lack of car traffic, making it ideal for relaxed cycling.
Can I explore the Doubs river area around Lombard?
Yes, the region is closely associated with the Doubs river. The EuroVelo 6 cycle path follows sections of the Doubs and Rhône-Rhine Canal, offering picturesque views and a chance to experience the river's natural beauty. The Thoraise Tunnel also plays a role in navigation along the Doubs.
Are there any unique or lesser-known attractions worth visiting?
The Osselle Cave is a truly unique experience. Described as one of the two oldest tourist caves in the world, it features a 1200-meter-long passage with stunning geological formations and an underground river. It's a hidden gem that offers a memorable adventure.
What kind of architecture can I expect to see in the Lombard area?
The region showcases notable architectural heritage, particularly at the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans. This UNESCO World Heritage site is an outstanding example of 18th-century industrial architecture, designed by Claude Nicolas Ledoux, and offers a unique insight into the Age of Enlightenment's vision for a utopian factory.
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