Attractions and Places To See around Bulle - Top 19
Best attractions and places to see around Bulle, the administrative capital of the Gruyère region in Switzerland, offers a blend of historical landmarks and natural landscapes. Situated at the edge of the Pre-Alps, the area provides diverse activities and sights. Visitors can explore the historic town center, which features picturesque bourgeois houses from the early 19th century. The region is characterized by its mountains, forests, and lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Bulle
…Last updated: May 4, 2026
Pontarlier
Highlight • Settlement
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Saint-Bénigne Church
Highlight • Religious Site
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Route du Lac de Saint-Point
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
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Path along Lac de l'Entonnoir
Highlight (Segment) • Other
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Étang de la Rivière-Drugeon
Highlight • Lake
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This lake, known for its brilliant blue water, crosses the Doubs River in a valley. It once formed a single, large body of water along with Lake Remoray. The lake is 6.3 km long and 800 m wide, making it the fourth-largest natural lake in France. It freezes over in winter. Thanks to the construction of a dam on its north side, it helps regulate the flow of the Doubs.
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The Église Saint-Bénigne in Pontarlier is a church dating from the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. This church combines Romanesque, Gothic and Franc-Comtoise style elements. The striking clocher porch is topped with an imperial domed roof, also known as a clocher comtois, a traditional feature of Franche-Comté. The roof is covered with glazed tiles. The Église Saint-Bénigne is located in the Haut-Doubs and is dedicated to Saint Bénigne. Since May 19, 1970, the building has been registered as a historical monument. Historically, the church was almost completely rebuilt between 1651 and 1666 on the same site as an original 11th century Romanesque church, of which almost nothing remains (except a 15th century portal). This happened after the passage of the troops of Duke Bernard de Saxe-Weimar during the Thirty Years' War. In 1666 the church was rededicated in honor of Saint Bénigne. The church has suffered serious damage over time from two fires, one in 1680 and one during the Pontarlier fire of 1736. The clocher porch was rebuilt in 1681, and the imperial dome was added in 1753 by architect Nicolas Nicole. In 1970 the church underwent a major restoration, and in 1974 new stained glass windows were created by artist Alfred Manessier and the Lorin de Chartres workshops. The organ, which dates from 1758 and is in Louis XV style, was restored in 1844 and again in 1982.
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Pontarlier is a mountain town located 837 meters above sea level in the heart of the Jura Mountains. As the capital of Haut Doubs, it is located at the entrance to a vast area of protected natural areas, where forests, lakes and green meadows are essential for the production of Mont d'Or and Comté cheese. Pontarlier was once known worldwide for its production of absinthe at the beginning of the last century. Today, the city has revived this tradition, with two distilleries once again producing absinthe.
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The lake of the Funnel or Bouverans is bordered in this part by a small secondary road and little frequented which leads you very close to the peat bogs. The setting for cycling is ideal, if you are looking for a moment of rejuvenation, in the heart of a nature reserve.
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This small pond is a real haven of peace, next to an equally peaceful town. It is an ideal place to stop, refuel and contemplate the reflections of clouds or trees in the water. Ornithology enthusiasts, get your cameras!
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Pontarlier is the capital of the "green fairy". It is here that the absinthe liqueur so popular in the nineteenth century and originating in the Val de Travers in the Swiss jura was produced industrially. The drink was nicknamed so because of its beautiful green color. She probably made you see fairies because wormwood has a hallucinogenic substance. It was forbidden to consume. Pontarlier is the second highest town in France after Briançon. Its city center is very pleasant.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Bulle?
The region around Bulle offers diverse natural beauty. You can visit Route du Lac de Saint-Point, known for its brilliant blue water, or enjoy the peaceful Étang de la Rivière-Drugeon, a small pond ideal for contemplation. Other notable natural sites include the Moléson Summit, accessible by funicular and cable car for panoramic views, the scenic Gorges de la Jogne with its waterfalls, and the idyllic Lac de la Gruyère, featuring the island of Ile d'Ogoz.
Are there historical sites to visit in Bulle and the surrounding area?
Yes, Bulle is rich in history. Explore the 13th-century Baillival Castle and the picturesque Old Town of Bulle, rebuilt after an 1805 fire, with its 19th-century bourgeois houses. Nearby, you can visit the Saint-Bénigne Church in Pontarlier, a historical monument combining Romanesque, Gothic, and Franc-Comtoise styles. The iconic Château de Gruyères and the charming Gruyères Old Town are also significant historical attractions a short distance away.
What cultural experiences are available near Bulle?
Bulle and its vicinity offer several cultural highlights. The Musée gruérien provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, traditions, and folk art. For a unique experience, visit the Maison Cailler Swiss Chocolate Factory in Broc to learn about chocolate making. The HR Giger Museum in Gruyères is also a distinctive cultural stop for art enthusiasts.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
The area around Bulle is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, such as those around Lac de Saint-Point or Étang de la Rivière-Drugeon. For gravel biking, explore routes like the 'Pontarlier – Saint-Bénigne Church loop' or 'Good campspot – Étang de la Rivière-Drugeon loop' found in the gravel biking guide. Road cycling options include scenic loops around Lac de Remoray.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Bulle?
Absolutely. Many attractions are suitable for families. The Route du Lac de Saint-Point and Étang de la Rivière-Drugeon are peaceful natural spots where families can enjoy the outdoors. The Bouleyres Forest offers a relaxing escape with a playground, hut, shelters, and picnic spots. Learning about cheese production at La Maison du Gruyère is also a fun and educational activity for all ages.
What are some notable viewpoints in the Bulle area?
For stunning views, head to the Moléson Summit, easily reached by funicular and cable car, offering amazing panoramic vistas. The Montsalvens Dam also provides wide, open views over Lake Montsalvens. Additionally, the Route du Lac de Saint-Point offers picturesque views of its brilliant blue waters.
What is the best time to visit Bulle?
Bulle offers attractions year-round. Summer is ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring natural sites like the Gorges de la Jogne and Lac de la Gruyère. Winter transforms the Pre-Alps into a destination for skiing and snowshoeing. The region also hosts seasonal events like the Folkloric Market in July, the Bulle Francomanias music festival in August, and a Christmas Market in December.
Can I find easy hiking trails near Bulle?
Yes, there are options for easy walks. The Bouleyres Forest offers various routes for walkers and runners, including a Finnish trail, providing a relaxing escape. The path along Lac de l'Entonnoir is also a pleasant, less-frequented route ideal for a moment of rejuvenation in a nature reserve.
What are some unique natural attractions or 'hidden gems' in the area?
Beyond the well-known sites, consider exploring the waterfalls in the Gorges de la Jogne, where a footpath leads from Broc to Lac de Montsalvens. Other notable waterfalls include Grandvillard Waterfall and Dah Waterfall near Estavannens. The tranquil Étang de la Rivière-Drugeon is also a peaceful haven, perfect for birdwatching.
What are the main attractions in the town of Pontarlier, near Bulle?
Pontarlier, a mountain town at 837 meters, is known for its history with absinthe production. Key attractions include the Saint-Bénigne Church, a historical monument with Romanesque, Gothic, and Franc-Comtoise elements. The town center itself is very pleasant to explore, offering a glimpse into its rich past and its setting in the heart of the Jura Mountains.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Bulle?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical landmarks, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural experiences. The picturesque Old Town of Bulle, the panoramic views from Moléson Summit, and the tranquil beauty of lakes like Lac de Saint-Point are frequently highlighted. The region's opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking also receive high praise.
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