Itinerant hiking : : From the enchanting Valserine to the Jura summit

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The Valserine may not be a fairy, but it enchants with every step. Its magical valley guides you between high plateaux and Jura peaks, offering breathtaking panoramas of the Alps. A journey between wild nature and poetry.

Guidebook with maps/step-by-step

▶ Day 1: Lélex → Bellecombe
⏱ Approximately 3h30 – 11.2 km – D+ 514 m / D- 153 m
From Lélex, follow the GR (red and white markings) towards Pont de la Fruitière. Pass through le Niaizet, les Closettes, then branch off onto the yellow PR to reach la Bretta, la Guienette and finally Bellecombe. A gentle warm-up between mountain pastures and forests.

▶ Day 2: Bellecombe → Mijoux
⏱ Approx. 3h50 – 14.4 km – D+ 175 m / D- 443 m
Start from Bellecombe along the GR to La Maire, then follow the yellow PR via chez Humberts, Croaby and Cariche. Then join the Manon and return to the GR to cross Lajoux before arriving in Mijoux. A beautiful day among valleys and hamlets.

▶ Day 3: Mijoux → Refuge de la Loge
⏱ Approximately 5h30 – 13.8 km – D+ 899 m / D- 451 m
From Mijoux, climb the GR to La Faucille, then continue to Grand Mont Rond, Colomby de Gex, Col de Crozet and reach Refuge de la Loge. A more alpine stage in the heart of the Nature Reserve, with spectacular views.

▶ Day 4: Refuge de la Loge → Lélex (via Crêt de la Neige)
⏱ Approximately 5h – 12.8 km – D+ 416 m / D- 950 m
Set out to tackle the highest peaks in the Jura: Brillonne, Crêt de la Neige, Reculet. Descend the 32 contours to the Menues plateau, then return to Lélex via the Pont du Niaizet. A grandiose finale between ridges, forests and lookouts.
1ʳᵉ stage – Bellecombe: Overnight stay of your choice at Verguet or La Guienette, for a warm welcome in the heart of the combes.
2ᵉ stage – Mijoux: Stay at La Michaille or the Gîte Communal, in a friendly atmosphere between mountain and village.
3ᵉ stage – Refuge d’altitude: Overnight stay at the Refuge de la Loge, in the heart of nature, for an authentic immersion experience on the crests of the Jura.

Itinerary details

Lélex

Loop

Marked

Ground, Grit, Not suitable for strollers

Autumn, Summer, Winter, Spring

Pets are not allowed

From 01/04 to 30/11 daily.Subject to favorable weather.

Description

A rich and varied itinerary of authentic villages, unspoilt countryside and spectacular peaks. Explore the Haute Chaîne du Jura, from the peaceful banks of the Valserine to the highest peaks of the Jura massif, with breathtaking views of the Alps.
The route runs through the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, and part of the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve: a protected, unspoilt area to be explored with respect.

Good to know – Protected area
Part of the route passes through the Haute Chaîne du Jura National Nature Reserve, which is subject to special regulations:

Dogs are not allowed, even on a lead.

Camping in tents prohibited.

Please respect these rules to preserve the richness of this exceptional environment.