Head to Château-Chalon for a scenic hike through the Jura vineyards, where rolling hills open onto breathtaking views. After a refreshing walk, dive into local heritage with a visit to a themed museum, wine tastings in an atmospheric cellar, and a stop at the region’s traditional fruitière vinicole.
The next day, set out for Baume-les-Messieurs and enjoy a full day in the great outdoors. Wander through one of France’s most beautiful villages, explore caves, admire waterfalls, and step inside a remarkable abbey.
Let the adventure begin in the heart of one of France’s most beautiful villages. Perched high above the valley, Château-Chalon stands watch over the surrounding vineyards like a timeless sentinel. With its honey-stone houses, winding lanes, Romanesque church, and castle ruins, this characterful village more than lives up to its prestigious label.
Feeling tempted by all those vineyards? Here are three wonderful places to discover and savor Jura wines — especially the famous vin jaune, affectionately known as the “gold of the Jura.”
This cultural center immerses you in the fascinating history of Jura wines while recreating the nostalgic atmosphere of a traditional old-fashioned classroom. To round off your journey through time, settle onto the museum’s sun-drenched terrace and enjoy a relaxing glass of wine (or your favorite alternative).
A journey through time
Step into the world of Domaine Berthet-Bondet for an intimate guided tour alongside passionate winemakers. Every Saturday, learn how to appreciate the estate’s diverse wines through a friendly, expert-led tasting experience. A unique, authentic — and delicious — moment to share.
Tasting with the winemakers
In Voiteur, Jura wines are enjoyed alongside delicious regional specialties. On the tasting menu: AOC Château-Chalon, Côtes du Jura, Étoile, vin jaune, vin de paille, and more. Stock up on delicious Jura-made treats and leave with a basket of gourmet souvenirs to relive your weekend getaway.
Take home my Jura winesIn the Jura — particularly around Arbois and Château-Chalon — winemakers produce a truly one-of-a-kind wine: vin jaune.
• It is made from a grape variety called Savagnin.
• It is aged for a minimum of six years and three months in oak barrels.
• During this long maturation, the wine — originally white — develops distinctive aromas of apple and walnut, along with a deep golden-yellow hue.
• When it is finally bottled, it goes into a very special bottle: a 62cl vessel known as the “clavelin”.
• Legend says it can be cellared for up to 100 years without losing its remarkable bouquet.
Cradled by towering limestone cliffs, Baume-les-Messieurs lies tucked within one of the Jura’s iconic reculées — deep, dramatic valleys carved by nature. Here, time seems to slow to a gentle pause. Charming stone cottages cluster around a magnificent Benedictine Abbey, a masterpiece of Jura Romanesque architecture.
A stroll through the lanes of Baume-les-Messieurs feels like stepping into another era — peaceful, authentic, unforgettable.
Discover Baume-les-Messieurs
Lace up your sneakers and follow the trails around Baume-les-Messieurs to uncover its natural wonders: waterfalls, caves, and spectacular reculées. This weekend escape invites you to reconnect with nature at its purest.
This 6.5 km (4-mile) hike leads you to the Baume-les-Messieurs abbey. Along the way, let the soothing sound of water guide you past the Cascades des Tufs, admire the breathtaking cave formations, and soak in the serenity of this pristine natural haven.
Venture more than 120 meters (390 ft) underground into the remarkable grottes de Baume-les-Messieurs. Explore over 600 meters (2,000 ft) of illuminated galleries and vast chambers reaching heights of 20 to 80 meters (65 to 260 ft).
Step away from the surface world and discover silent underground rivers and lakes enhanced by mesmerizing sound and light displays. And who knows — you might even encounter a few bats along the way.
Grottes de Baume-les-Messieurs
Deep within the reculée of Baume-les-Messieurs, after a few scenic kilometers on foot (or just a short walk from the parking area), you’ll find yourself face-to-face with a true natural spectacle.
The resurgence of the Dard River emerges dramatically from the rock after its turbulent underground journey, bursting forth into a magnificent waterfall shimmering in unexpectedly vibrant hues.
Discover the waterfallsThe Romanesque Abbaye de Baume-les-Messieurs lies hidden within one of the many reculées of the Jura Mountains. It was from this abbey that Bernon, the abbot who went on to found the prestigious Abbaye de Cluny, began his monastic mission.
While early life at Baume emphasized monastic simplicity, entry requirements gradually became increasingly strict. By the 14th century, only members of the high nobility were permitted to join the community. The abbey later became known as “Baume-les-Messieurs” — a nod to the noble refinement of its residents. Elegance above all.
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