4.3
(156)
732
hikers
35
hikes
Hiking trails around Vellevans offer diverse terrain in the Doubs department of Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, eastern France. The region features varied altitudes, ranging from 392 to 742 meters, contributing to a rich tapestry of landscapes. Hikers can explore scenic valleys, discover natural springs, and encounter dramatic rock formations. The area is characterized by forests and a mix of semi-continental and mountain climates, providing a natural environment for extensive marked footpaths.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
2.8
(14)
29
hikers
7.61km
02:21
270m
270m
Hike the moderate 4.7-mile Val de Cusance Loop to explore the Cusancin valley, discover the Source Bleue, and enjoy panoramic views.
5.0
(3)
28
hikers
11.3km
03:10
230m
230m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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3.7
(3)
15
hikers
4.27km
01:18
130m
130m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(6)
18
hikers
2.22km
00:37
50m
50m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(3)
14
hikers
5.21km
01:39
200m
200m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Please note, this hike was done in May 2025, and the very last section was inaccessible. We were unable to reach the source of the Cusancin River; fallen trees and overgrown vegetation made the path impossible to find. We had to turn around and return to the starting point by road (barely a hundred meters of asphalt).
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Built on the foundations of a 12th century feudal castle, the chapel dominates the hamlet of Val-de-Cusance. It was built in 1880 and bears the name of Saint-Ermenfroi, who had built an abbey intended to accommodate the sick and foreigners in the 7th century. The chapel is the ideal place to enjoy a beautiful panorama of the valley, with greenery as far as the eye can see.
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The green spring or the Cuse is located on the left side of the river at approximately the same height as the blue spring. This is the true source of Cusancin. The upper gallery of the cave was walled with dry stones.
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The blue spring is a Vauclusian spring which emerges in an oval basin. Its depth is nine meters. Divers explored the submerged gallery over a length of 220 meters before stumbling upon a narrowing which was not crossed. The gallery is made up of two siphons. The turquoise blue waters give it its name.
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It is one of the two sources that feed the Cusancin, a river also known as “the Cuse”. It is greener than the blue of the Cove which is called the Blue Source. This is on the other side of the road. The Cuse and the Anse join and lend their name to the neighboring village: Cusance.
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As the name suggests, this water is crystal clear sea blue. Is it worth visiting and maybe taking a dip?
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Chateau Which overlooks the valley; possible visits
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There are over 35 hiking trails around Vellevans, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a good mix, with 18 easy routes, 15 moderate options, and 2 more challenging treks.
The terrain around Vellevans is quite diverse, with altitudes ranging from 392 to 742 meters. You can expect to hike through scenic valleys, dense forests, and encounter dramatic geological features like cliffs and rocky formations. The area's climate, a transition between semi-continental and mountain, contributes to its rich natural landscape.
Yes, Vellevans offers several easy walks suitable for families. For instance, the Cusancin spring – Saint-Erminfroid Chapel loop from Cusance is an easy 4.4 km trail, and The Blue Spring – Saint-Erminfroid Chapel loop from Cusance is an even shorter 2.3 km option, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Hikers can discover several natural features and points of interest. The Val de Cusance Loop, for example, meanders through the scenic Cusancin valley and reveals the captivating Source Bleue. You might also encounter dramatic geological features like the Grange-Ravey cliffs and the Rochers de Sous-Buen.
Many of the trails around Vellevans are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. Popular options include the Val de Cusance Loop, the Green Spring – Croix de Saint Erminfroi loop from Cusance, and the Croix de Saint Erminfroi – Cusancin spring loop from Cusance.
The hiking experience in Vellevans is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 140 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied topography, the scenic valleys, and the diverse forest environments that make for engaging and rewarding treks.
While Vellevans is a rural commune, public transport options might be limited directly to trailheads. It's generally recommended to check local bus schedules or consider driving to access the starting points of the various hikes. The region is well-suited for exploration by car, allowing flexibility to reach different routes.
Parking availability varies by trailhead. Many popular starting points for hikes, especially in and around villages like Cusance, often have designated parking areas. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for information on parking facilities near your chosen trail.
Yes, Vellevans has historical significance. The village is home to the Église Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul, and it is also crossed by a Roman road that once connected Besançon to the Rhine, adding a historical dimension to the landscape you'll be hiking through.
Vellevans experiences a climate that transitions between semi-continental and mountain, typical of the Jura region. While hiking is possible for much of the year, spring and autumn generally offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Winters can be rigorous with abundant rainfall, so be prepared for potentially challenging conditions if hiking during colder months.
Absolutely. The region is known for its natural springs and riverside scenery. The Green Spring – Croix de Saint Erminfroi loop from Cusance explores natural springs, and the Blue Spring – Saint-Erminfroid Chapel loop from Cusance also highlights a significant spring. Additionally, the broader area features the Doubs river, with a bike path along the Doubs and the Boucle du Doubs at Baume-les-Dames, offering opportunities to appreciate riverside landscapes.
Beyond hiking, the broader Doubs and Bourgogne-Franche-Comté regions offer a wide array of outdoor activities. These can include road cycling, mountain biking, gravel biking, golf, caving, and fishing. The diverse natural environment supports a range of nature-based pursuits for all enthusiasts.


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