Attractions and Places To See around Patornay - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Patornay include a variety of natural and historical sites in the Jura department of France. This region is characterized by its glacial lakes, impressive waterfalls, and scenic valleys. Visitors can explore remnants of historic railway lines, charming villages, and diverse natural landscapes. The area offers opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Patornay
- The most popular attractions is Révigny Metal Viaduct, a bridge and viaduct. This old railway bridge is considered worth seeing and offers magnificent landscapes.
- Another must-see spot is Tunnel de la Diane (Voie PLM), a section of the old PLM route. This greenway, reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, offers a unique mountain route for railway enthusiasts.
- Visitors also love The Old Railway Tunnel, an old railway line converted into a bike path. The tunnel is quite long, lit, and features a good surface, making it enjoyable to cross.
- Patornay is known for its historic railway structures, scenic greenways, and natural features like lakes and waterfalls. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from man-made monuments to natural wonders.
- The attractions around Patornay are appreciated by the komoot community, with 97 upvotes and 25 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Tunnel de la Diane (Voie PLM)
Highlight (Segment) • Other
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Pont-de-Poitte
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Metal Bridge and Tunnel of the Voie PLM
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Voie Verte PLM cycle path
Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway
More information: jura-tourism.com/itineraire/voie-plm
or bahntrassenradeln.de/bahneur_fr.htm#fr39
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Révigny Metal Viaduct
Highlight • Bridge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Patornay.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Saut de la Saisse is a waterfall in France located in the Jura massif, at the point where the Ain river flows into the Vouglans reservoir at Pont-de-Poitte and Patornay, between Lons-le-Saunier and Clairvaux-les-Lacs. A "marmite du diable", "marmite de géant" or "marmite glaciaire" in Switzerland (or simply "marmite" or "chaudron") is a more or less cylindrical natural cavity carved into the rock by ancient, generally torrential watercourses, carrying pebbles or gravel, which promotes swirling erosion (a phenomenon called "marmitage").
0
0
Beautiful, great, viaduct and tunnel. It's a shame the cycle path isn't asphalted.
0
0
Great view of the Ain, this is where the Lac de Vouglans begins. When the water level is high, the stones are of course not so easy to see.
0
0
Correction to my tip: Asphalt with mixed traffic, for residents, but I couldn't see where the residents wanted to go. It's a shame, some sections of the asphalt are no longer in such good condition.
0
0
Beautiful views, but unfortunately the railway line cycle path is not asphalted.
0
0
An old railway bridge worth seeing, unfortunately there are stupid rivets on the road and it is slippery when wet.
0
0
With the many tunnels, bridges and some beautiful views, it definitely has the potential to be a beautiful railway cycle path. Most of it is not asphalted, there is light in the tunnels, but the lack of asphalt means that there are very dangerous longitudinal grooves. Later there is a staircase, which is not easy with full luggage and in bad weather. The asphalted sections unfortunately have car traffic, even if only local residents. Conclusion: unfortunately it doesn't come anywhere close to Alpe-Adria.
0
0
As you travel along the PLM Route, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the Vallière Valley. Once a historic railway line, this scenic route now offers a tranquil escape through rolling hills, lush forests and charming villages. From the elevated vantage point, you can admire the meandering river, picturesque vineyards and distant mountains.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Patornay?
The region around Patornay is rich in natural beauty, featuring numerous glacial lakes such as Lac du Val, Lac de Chambly, Lac de Chalain, and the wild Lac d'Ilay. You can also discover impressive waterfalls like the Herisson Waterfalls, including Cascade de la Billaude and Cascade de la queue de cheval, and scenic gorges like the Gorges de la Lemme. The Vallière Valley also offers breathtaking panoramic views.
Are there good hiking opportunities near Patornay?
Yes, Patornay is an excellent base for hiking. You can find various trails, including easy loops like the "Stunning view of the lake – View of the Ain at Pont-de-Poitte loop from Pont-de-Poitte" (6.5 km) or more moderate options such as the "Below the Slopes loop from Pont-de-Poitte" (9.8 km). For more options, explore the hiking guide around Patornay.
What historical sites or cultural attractions are there near Patornay?
The area boasts significant historical and cultural sites. You can explore remnants of the historic Voie PLM railway line, including the Révigny Metal Viaduct, the Tunnel de la Diane, and The Old Railway Tunnel, which are now part of a scenic greenway. Further afield, visit the historically significant Salt Mines of Salins-les-Bains and the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Saltworks at Arc-et-Senans.
Which charming villages are worth visiting around Patornay?
Several picturesque villages are easily accessible from Patornay. Baume-les-Messieurs and Chateau-Chalon are both recognized as "Most Beautiful Villages of France," offering stunning settings amidst cliffs and vineyards. Lons-le-Saunier is a traditional local town with markets, and Arbois is known for its old quarter and the nearby Cirque de Fer.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions suitable for children?
Absolutely! The Voie PLM cycle path, a greenway reserved for pedestrians and cyclists, is an excellent family-friendly option with a moderate gradient and illuminated tunnels. Many of the region's lakes, such as Lac de Chalain, offer opportunities for relaxation and water activities. Exploring the Herisson Waterfalls can also be an exciting adventure for families.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in the Patornay area?
For magnificent vistas, head to Pic de l'Aigle in Chaux-du-Dombief, which offers panoramic views over the Jura region, the Hérisson valley, the Grandvaux, and Lac d'Ilay. The Voie PLM Route itself provides breathtaking views of the Vallière Valley as it winds through rolling hills and forests.
What is the best time of year to visit Patornay and its attractions?
The best time to visit Patornay largely depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful foliage. Summer is ideal for enjoying the lakes and water activities, though it can be busier. Winter provides opportunities for scenic walks, especially if you enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Can I go cycling around Patornay?
Yes, the area is very popular for cycling. The Voie PLM cycle path, an old railway line converted into a greenway, is a highlight, offering a unique mountain route for railway enthusiasts with a good surface and illuminated tunnels. For more routes, check out the cycling guide around Patornay, which includes routes like the "Saut Girard Waterfall – Lac de la Motte loop from Boissia".
Are there any accessible trails or attractions for visitors with limited mobility?
The Old Railway Tunnel section of the Voie PLM greenway is noted for being quite long, lit, and having a good surface, making it enjoyable to cross and potentially suitable for visitors with limited mobility or those using wheelchairs. The overall gradient of the Voie PLM is also very moderate.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Beyond hiking and cycling, the region offers various outdoor activities. You can explore mountain biking trails, with options like the "Small trail along the Ain – SCIE Viewpoint loop from Patornay" (26.9 km). The numerous lakes provide opportunities for water sports and wild swimming. For more MTB options, refer to the MTB Trails around Patornay guide.
Are there any dog-friendly trails or attractions around Patornay?
While specific dog rules vary, many natural areas and greenways, such as sections of the Voie PLM, are generally welcoming to dogs on a leash. It's always recommended to check local signage or specific attraction websites for the most current pet policies before visiting.
What makes the Voie PLM a notable attraction?
The Voie PLM (P.L.M. Route) is a historic railway line, once connecting Lons-le-Saunier to Champagnole, now transformed into a scenic greenway for pedestrians and cyclists. It features impressive structures like the Metal Bridge and Tunnel of the Voie PLM, the Tunnel de la Diane, and the Viaduc Métallique de Révigny. It offers unique passage points and breathtaking panoramic views of the Vallière Valley.
Are there any unique natural reserves or parks nearby?
Yes, the region is home to the vast Haut-Jura Regional Nature Park, offering extensive protected natural environments. Additionally, you can visit the Réserve naturelle régionale des tourbières du bief du nanchez, a regional natural reserve dedicated to protecting peat bogs, providing a unique ecological experience.
Most popular routes around Patornay
Most popular attractions around Patornay
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
