In 1829, the term 'Jurassic' was coined by a geologist, named Brongniart, to classify the predominantly chalky terrain (formed between 205 and 135 million years ago) that can be seen everywhere in... the Jura Mountains! From this limestone rock, the effects of erosion have created some amazing landscapes featuring a multitude of underground caves and cavities!
For geology enthusiasts!
Cave tours and geology: hidden treasures of the Jura Mountains
Get some exercise and explore your boundaries... underground! Cave tours, potholing and underground fondue are on the programme of this fabulous playground that awaits you beneath the surface! Stay cool as you explore the beautifully enhanced setting of a cave specially fitted out to receive visitors. If you're feeling adventurous enough to try potholing, grab your helmet and follow the guide to discover the underground world of the Jura Mountains. To perfect your geological knowledge, go and visit these larger-than-life natural features dating back to the Jurassic era when dinosaurs walked the earth.
Cave tours
The caves of Baume-les-Messieurs, Moidons, Osselle and the Chasm of Poudrey are the gems and the pride and joy of the Jura Mountains.
They are home to hidden geological treasures that are unveiled and admirably showcased by cutting-edge displays and light effects.
Join a guided tour to see all the geological wonders and mineral formations that the Jura underworld has created since its beginnings, millions of years ago.
In the heat of summer, this is the perfect place to cool off. But don't forget to bring something warm to wear!
TOP 5 cave tours
7 extraordinary landscapes formed by a unique geological history!
Limestone pavement, steephead valley, giant kettle holes... To learn more and marvel at the forces of nature, the Jura Mountains are the place to be! Visit these sites and gaze in awe at landscapes formed by an eventful geological past.
Did you know?
What 'Jurassic' means...
The Jura Massif: An open-air geography book!
Go back to the Jurassic era and the age of dinosaurs
- Head for Dinoplagne to see dinosaur tracks and travel 150 million years back in time.
- If you're up for a 'prehistoric theme park' experience, visit Dino-Zoo where you'll find not only rides but also some fabulous life-sized replicas of dinosaurs!
- For geology enthusiasts, go and see the Lapiaz de Loulle, a fascinating limestone pavement site that shows how this geological formation results from rainwater trickling over the limestone rock.
Fascinating!
A documentary film about the geological history of the massif
'Jura, le Temps d’une Montagne' is an impressive, beautiful and informative film presented by the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park.
Potholing and underground adventures
Potholing adventure
So you're not afraid of the dark and you're an adrenalin addict? Then potholing in the Jura Mountains is just the thing for you!
Underground with no bearings, you can only follow the experienced guide who will ensure you enjoy a truly dizzying experience!
If you're an explorer at heart, get ready to discover a whole new world of landscapes like none you've ever seen, where not a sound can be heard and the only light is from your head torch.
Try potholing
Potholing & Fondue
Everybody has tried the Ski + Fondue experience, but have you heard of Potholing + Fondue?
This unusual and pleasant activity is possible in the Jura Mountains! Ready to give it a try?
Try potholing with fondue