The Valserine is not a fairy and yet it enchants... this marvelous valley with its eponymous river makes us travel between the high plateaus and the high chain of the Jura with a breathtaking view of the alpine chain.
Set off for a holiday in the heart of authentic landscapes, where fauna, flora and the heritage of small villages steeped in history mingle. This route invites you to explore a variety of sporting trails, from the peaceful banks of the Valserine to the majestic peaks of the Jura, offering a journey into the heart of the unspoilt nature of the Haut nature reserve.
Marvel at the exceptional panoramas of the Jura and Alpine ranges, while discovering a rich and captivating historical heritage.
The route takes place within the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve. We invite you to respect the specific regulations of this protected area in order to preserve its beauty.
Day 1: Lélex -> Bellecombe. Approx. 3h30
Distance: 11.2 KM
Difference in altitude: D+514m / D- 153m
Itinerary: Start from Lélex, take the GR (red/white) towards Pont de la Fruitière, follow Niaizet, Les Closettes, take the PR Jaune on La Bretta, la Guienette
Day 2: Bellecombe -> Mijoux. Approx. 3h50
Distance: 14.4 km
Difference in altitude: D+175m / D-443m
Itinerary: Start on the GR (red and white) from Bellecombe, towards la Maire, then chez Humberts, (yellow PR) follow the path towards Croaby, Cariche, then le Manon (back on the GR) to Mijoux, via Lajoux.
Day 3: Mijoux -> Refuge de la Loge. Approx. 5h30
You follow the trail through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Reserve.
Distance: 13.8 KM
Difference in altitude: D+899 m/ D-451 m
Itinerary: Follow the GR (red and white) through the village towards La Faucille, then Grand Mont Rond, Colomby de Gex, Col de Crozet, then Refuge de la Loge.
Day 4: Refuge de la Loge -> Lélex via Crêt de la Neige.
Approx. 5 hrs.
You'll pass by some of the highest peaks in the Jura mountains.
You follow the trail through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Reserve.
Distance: 12.8 km
Difference in altitude: D+ 416 m / D- 950 m
Itinerary: Follow the GR (red/white) towards Brillonne d'en Haut, les Brulats Frézy, sous le Crêt, Crêt de la Neige, Reculet. Here pick up the yellow PR then descend to the Menues flat via the 32 contours, then cross the road, Pont du Niaizet, le Niaizet (GR again) and finish in Lélex.
Part of the course is located in a nature reserve, so please respect the regulations specific to this area:
Dogs are forbidden, even on a leash.
Tents are also forbidden.
More information:
Before setting off:- Find out about general and local weather conditions, making sure there's no precipitation.- Find out about the approach to the route, its height, how long it will take to reach the summit and any possible escapes (IGN map, GPS, topo-guide, etc.).- Evaluate possible risks by asking mountain professionals, refuges and gîtes.- Inform someone close to you of your objective, and contact them again in the event of any changes: departure and return times, number of participants with telephone numbers for each, vehicle(s), parking, etc.- Avoid setting off alone, and use equipment that is suitable for the activity, adjusted and in good condition: headlamp, complete first-aid kit, survival blanket, etc.In the event of a problem, call 112 (European emergency number).The Patou or guard dog: what attitude should you adopt?When out hiking, it's not uncommon to come across flocks of sheep or goats guarded by guard dogs known as patous. These dogs, formidable against predators such as wolves, bears and lynxes, can frighten hikers with their barking.The patou protects flocks in total autonomy. Its main role is to deter intruders and alert the shepherd. Raised among the ewes from an early age, he learns to protect them at all times, often in groups.To avoid problems with a patou:-Identify grazing areas before setting off.-Keep your distance and go around flocks if possible.-In the event of an encounter, stay calm, turn back slowly or stop to let the dog sniff you out.-Don't try to pet or feed the animals, avoid sudden movements, don't run, and avoid taking photos.For runners:-Do not run when approaching a herd.-Take off your headphones to hear the dog's barking.-By adopting these behaviors, you'll be able to cohabit serenely with guard dogs on your hikes.
Itinerary
In detail
- Distance: 52 km
- Markup: BALISE
- Elevation gain : 1947 m
- Negative elevation gain : 1947 m
- Daily duration: 240 min
- Duration of itinerary: 4 day(s)
- Type of route: BOUCLE
- Beaconing accuracy: Country trails / GR 9
- Nature of the land: Ground
- Nature of the land: Grit
- Nature of the land: Not suitable for strollers
Opening
From 01/04 to 30/11.
Subject to favorable weather.
Rates
1st possible stopover at Bellecombe chez Verguet or la Guienette
2nd stage possible in Mijoux at La Michaille or the communal gîte
3rd stopover at La Loge mountain hut.
Facilities & services
Facilities
- Play area
- Public WC
- Parking nearby
- Charging stations for electric vehicles
Host language(s)
- French
