3 of Mother Nature’s Miracles to be Found in Jura

Tucked away in the East, the department of Jura is often referred to by past visitors as the little known jewel of France. The picturesque region is named after the Jura Mountains a small range of forest peaks that lie to the north of the Alps. Camping in France’s unspoilt Jura department affords a range of wonderful views, and the chance to see some of Mother Nature’s greatest wonders.

Cascades du Herrisson

Consisting of four main waterfalls with numerous smaller cascades in between, the Cascades du Herrisson are well worth a visit while you are camping in France. The source of the falls, Lac de Bonlieu, can be found at a height of roughly 800 metres, after which the river drops 280 metres across just 3 kilometres, forming the four main falls, which are known as Saut Girard, Le Saut de la Forge, Le Grand Saut, and l’Eventail. Well maintained footpaths and staircases run through the forest, taking you right alongside these magnificent waterfalls, and providing wonderful views and not to be missed photo opportunities. The Cascades are particularly worth visiting following heavy rainfall or melting snows when their flow is heavier.

Les Grottes de Baume les Messieurs

Named by past visitors as one of the most beautiful villages in France, Baume les Messieurs is not only welcoming but is also superbly picturesque. Located at the meeting point of three valleys, there are dips and plateaux as far as the eye can see, and some wonderful walking opportunities. However, to see some outstanding natural beauty while you are camping in France be sure to take a trip to the glaciated canyon and caves at Baume les Messieurs. This limestone, stalactite cave system is incredible, with rooms that reach up to 80 metres in height, rivers that snake underground and lakes containing blind shrimp. When it rains, a waterfall is formed over the entrance to the cave, making it feel as if it is a gateway to another world.

Salins les bains

Enfolded between two hills – Fort Berlin and Fort Saint André – the town of Salins is watched over by Mount Poupet, which stands at around 850 metres. Known by the French as ‘the city of sparkling waters,’ Salins is known for its saline waters that are as rich as sea water, and naturally beneficial to your health. The waters of this town mean that this has always been a place of natural curiosity, and brine has been extracted from the water in the salt works since the middle ages. You can experience this fascinating process for yourself, partaking in a guided tour of the salt works, 250 metres below the ground. After you’ve explored the industrial side of the salt works themselves, make the most of the area’s naturally formed thermal springs by soaking away your aches and pains in a long, hot, thermal bath.

Camping in France allows you to really get back to nature, and what better region to do this in than Jura. With peaks to climb, waterfalls and rivers to marvel at, and caves to explore, Mother Nature has really made her mark on this department.