The best walks and hikes around Les Plains-Et-Grands-Essarts

The region offers an extensive network of over 200 hiking routes. These include a diverse range of options, with approximately 56 easy trails, 118 moderate trails, and 32 difficult trails, catering to various skill levels.

You can expect a varied landscape, characteristic of the Doubs department. The area is nestled within the Jura Mountains and the Doubs Valley, offering a mix of lush green, mountainous terrain and flatter plains. Elevations range from 626 to 933 meters, providing both gentle and challenging ascents and descents.

Yes, there are many easy trails perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Bief Waterfall – Monkey Rock loop from Goumois is an easy 6.9 km route that takes about 2 hours to complete, offering beautiful scenery without significant difficulty.

Absolutely. For experienced hikers, routes like Along the Doubs - Stage 3 provide a challenging experience. This difficult 21.5 km path follows the river, offering extensive views and typically takes around 5 hours 50 minutes to complete.

The region is rich in natural attractions. You can discover the impressive Bief Waterfall, explore the Bisontin Cave, or visit the unique At the Monkey Rock. The area also features the Grotte des Dames Vertes and the distinctive Fontaine vauclusienne.

Yes, many routes are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Chute du Bief — loop from Vautenaire, an 13.9 km trail that leads through varied forest and open landscapes.

For breathtaking views, consider visiting the Panorama à la barrière de Girodey, which offers expansive vistas of the surrounding natural beauty. The Refuge des Sommêtres, located on a rocky ridge, also provides panoramic views of the Jura mountain range, the Doubs valley, the Vosges, and the Black Forest.

Many trails in the Les Plains-Et-Grands-Essarts region are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in protected areas or near livestock, and to check specific trail regulations before you go.

The trails in Les Plains-Et-Grands-Essarts are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 700 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained paths, and the stunning views of the Jura Mountains and Doubs Valley.

The region is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant hiking conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant foliage. Summer is also popular, though some trails might be busier. Winter hiking is possible, especially for those seeking a more serene, snow-covered landscape.

Beyond the natural beauty, you can explore the charming Saint-Hippolyte Village in the Doubs Valley, known for its ancient streets and a Romanesque church. The village of Les Plains-Et-Grands-Essarts itself features typical farms and distinctive 'pierres dressées' (standing stones) marking property boundaries, offering a glimpse into local heritage.