▶ Day 1: Lélex → Chézery-Forens
⏱ Approximately 6h30 – 18.3 km – D+ 897 m / D- 1 221 m
From Lélex, take the GR (red and white markings) towards Ratou, the Loge refuge, then climb Crêt de la Neige (1720 m) and Reculet. Then leave the GR to follow the yellow markings towards Vernay du Dessus, descend towards Rivière, then reach Chézery-Forens, nestling on the banks of the Valserine.
▶ Day 2: Chézery-Forens → Lélex (via Crêt de Chalam)
⏱ Approximately 6h – 17.1 km – D+ 1,083 m / D- 758 m
From Chézery, climb towards Forens (yellow markings), then pass the Étrès waterfall, Petit and Grand Mannet to Crêt de Chalam (1,545 m). Descend to Borne au Lion via Sous le Crêt. Rejoin the GR to finish at Les Closettes, Le Niaizet and return to Lélex.
1ʳᵉ stage – Overnight stay in Chézery-Forens
For your stopover in the heart of the Valserine valley, there are several accommodation options to suit you:
▶ Le Camping le Valserine for a night as close to nature as possible
▶ Le Gîte Chez Dario or Le Gîte de la Poivrière for a warm and friendly atmosphere
▶ Les Chambres d’hôtes du Commerce for a comfortable stay right in the centre of the village.
Itinerary details
Description
After this grandiose crossing, your route takes you to Chézery-Forens, a village steeped in history: in the past, Cistercian monks came here to clear the land, settle and make this valley, through which the peaceful Valserine flows, prosper.
The final objective of this wonderful Jura adventure: to reach the Crêt de Chalam, culminating at 1545 metres. An emblematic summit, offering a final breath of freedom, nature and wild beauty before concluding this unforgettable loop.
The route takes you 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.