Attractions and Places To See around Fontenais - Top 20

Fontenais and its surroundings are rich in history. You can visit the 18th-century Château de Fontenais, which features two Moorish-looking towers, and the ancient Chapel of Sainte-Croix, dating back to 1145. Further afield, explore the medieval charm of Saint-Ursanne Old Town and its historic St. Ursanne Stone Bridge. The ruins of Château du Morimont, first mentioned in 1183, also offer a glimpse into the region's past.

Yes, Fontenais is known for its natural beauty. The municipality gets its name from its numerous springs, with the Bonne-Fontaine being the primary source. You can also experience the picturesque Gorges of Banné and La Perche when approaching Fontenais from Porrentruy. The region boasts significant forested areas, perfect for exploring. Additionally, the Doubs River offers beautiful natural scenery and tranquil spots.

The diverse terrain around Fontenais is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, running, and road cycling. For hiking, consider trails like the 'Échelle de la Mort' or routes around Col de Montvoie. Road cyclists can explore loops from Porrentruy, including those passing through the 'Col de la Croix'. For more detailed routes, check out the dedicated guides for Hiking around Fontenais, Running Trails around Fontenais, and Road Cycling Routes around Fontenais.

Absolutely. Many attractions around Fontenais are suitable for families. The historic Saint-Ursanne Old Town and its St. Ursanne Stone Bridge are great for a leisurely stroll and offer a charming atmosphere. The Doubs River also provides pleasant spots, including small beaches under trees, perfect for a family outing.

For scenic views, the area offers several spots. From the opposite bank of the Doubs River, you get a great perspective of the historic Saint-Ursanne Old Town. The Col de la Croix (Jura, 789 m) is another excellent location, offering various routes and panoramic vistas from the pass.

The springs are central to Fontenais' identity, as the village's name is derived from them. The Bonne-Fontaine is the primary source, but others like the Doux, Ouyatte, Fontenelle, Brère, and Calabri also contribute. Historically, these springs were vital, supplying water to Porrentruy and its fountains from the 16th century onwards.

Visitors frequently praise the picturesque and historic atmosphere of places like Saint-Ursanne Old Town, describing the experience of crossing the stone bridge into the city as 'sublime'. The St. Ursanne Stone Bridge is appreciated for its historical significance and medieval charm. Many also enjoy the tranquil and secluded paths along the Doubs River and the peaceful picnic areas at sites like Château du Morimont.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, there are several difficult routes. Hiking options include the 'Échelle de la Mort' loop from Fontenais or Bressaucourt, and routes around Col de Montvoie. For road cycling, the 'Passwang Tunnel – Schelten Pass loop from Porrentruy' is rated as difficult. These routes often feature steep climbs and diverse terrain.

Yes, the historic part of Fontenais, known as the Old Village, offers a sense of tranquility and reflects centuries of growth. The Place de la Fontaine in the village center highlights its deep connection to the water sources that gave Fontenais its name, showcasing its cultural heritage.

The Col de la Croix is a mountain pass in the Jura region, located at an altitude of 789 meters, situated between Saint-Ursanne and Courgenay. It's a popular spot for cyclists and hikers, offering a nice descent towards the Doubs and Saint-Ursanne, and serves as a branching point for various mountain bike and hiking trails.

Yes, the Château du Morimont, a castle ruin located on a hill near the French-Swiss border, is an excellent spot for a picnic and rest. It was first mentioned in 1183 and offers a historical setting for a relaxing break.