What to do in Saint-Claude?
Have you ever heard of Saint-Claude? Saint-Claude is not only the sub-prefecture of the Jura department in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, but it also one of the ‘Villes et Métiers d’Art’ (Cities and Crafts). In other words, Saint-Claude is a dream for craft lovers!
Visit the Musée Pipe et Diamant
At its Pipe and Diamond Museum, you can admire unique pieces and discover local craftsmanship. A must-see: Saint-Claude boasts the “world’s largest pipe,” right in the heart of the city! Standing nearly 9 metres tall, it testifies to the expertise passed down through generations by local artisans. Conversely, the “world’s smallest pipe,” only 10 millimetres long, is also on display in the same museum
The town’s craft tradition dates back to the 7th century, when monks founded Saint-Claude Monastery and developed the art of wood-turning. In the 16th century, artisans applied this technique to pipe-making, which experienced considerable growth with the popularization of tobacco. While pipe smoking declined over time, it is now making a strong comeback as a fashion accessory!
However, don’t bother looking for diamonds while hiking in the Haut-Jura: you won’t find any! But why did this activity become so popular in the small town of Saint-Claude and its surrounding villages? The answer dates back to the 17th century, when Genevan watchmakers sought out skilled local artisans to cut ruby pivots for watch movements. Later, in the 19th century, Antwerp diamond merchants were drawn to the region by the meticulous and affordable workforce, as well as the natural power of the rivers that flow through the town.
Admire the impressive cathedral and visit the Abbey Museum
Although Saint-Claude has only 10,000 inhabitants, it boasts an imposing cathedral, a listed historical monument! Built between the 14th and 18th centuries on the site of a former monastery, this cathedral is a ‘must-see’. Inside, you’ll discover magnificent carved walnut choir stalls, among the finest in France. Don’t miss the superb stained-glass windows, the grand organ, and the soaring vaulted ceiling, all of which contribute to the building’s beauty!
Right next to the cathedral, the Abbey Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into history. In its cellars, you’ll find archaeological remains of Saint-Claude Abbey, founded in the 5th century, including part of the vaulted gallery, which once stretched for 110 metres. In addition to its historical treasures, the museum also houses an impressive art collection, thanks to donations from artists Guy Bardone and René Genis. The museum organizes temporary exhibitions, activities and events throughout the year, so don’t forget to check the program for what’s on!
Discover Saint-Claude’s natural curiosities
Nature lovers will also find their paradise in Saint-Claude! This unique town, nestled deep in a valley, blends harmoniously into its spectacular landscape.
Its surroundings offer an exceptional setting, especially in good weather, perfect for discovering the region’s natural wonders.
Picturesque hikes, breathtaking panoramas: the beauty of Saint-Claude is ideal for outdoor adventures and uncovering the region’s hidden treasures.
Just a short distance from Saint-Claude lies the Grosdar Canyon, perfect for adventurers of all levels! Beginners and families can enjoy a fun, easy section, while more experienced canyoneers will love the challenge of a 50-meter abseiling descent. Along the way, you’ll discover the stunning Queue de Cheval waterfall and take in the canyon’s exotic scenery. Several organizations, like La Boite à Montagne, offer guided canyoning trips so you can experience this thrilling outdoor activity firsthand.
Nestled at the foot of peaks reaching 1,000 metres, the Cascades de Flumen offer a magnificent hike near Saint-Claude. These three waterfalls are particularly impressive during the spring thaw or after heavy rains! The easiest access is from Martinet. From Saint-Claude, head towards the campsite, cross two small bridges near the swimming pool, and you’ll see a fountain marking the start of the trail.
For a more adventurous route, you can start from the top, at the Belvedère de la Roche Blanche or Saut du Chien. This option offers exceptional panoramic views, but the descent is steep! You can even combine it with a visit to the Lacets de Septmoncel (Hairpin Bends). If you enjoy hiking, I also recommend exploring the Chamois Trail, which crosses this region!
The Lacets de Septmoncel
I’ve driven the Lacets de Septmoncel road thousands of times, and I never tire of it! This winding road hugs the cliffs, climbing to nearly 900 metres in altitude. It is particularly spectacular in autumn, when the trees are ablaze with colour before shedding their leaves. There are several magnificent viewpoints along the way, such as the Saut du Chien (Dog’s Leap) and the Chapeau de Gendarme (Gendarme’s Hat), a rock formation reminiscent of the bicorn hats worn by Napoleonic gendarmes.
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, you might recognize this road from the 2010 Tour de France, as it’s very popular with cyclists. For a breathtaking view of the hairpin bends, head to the Roche Blanche viewpoint, located in the Hautes Combes.
Discover the Hautes-Combes Area
To explore the Hautes-Combes, take the winding road from Saint-Claude towards Les Moussières. Welcome to the Hautes-Combes, a vast plateau, situated between 1,000 and 1,300 metres above sea level, which offers a breathtaking landscape, a blend of valleys, forests, and scattered villages. Charming villages such as La Pesse, Les Bouchoux, Les Moussières, Les Molunes, Bellecombe, and Lajoux dot the landscape.
In summer, the Hautes-Combes are a paradise for hikers, mountain bikers, and anyone who appreciates peace and nature. In winter, they transform into a true haven for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding. Located in the heart of the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park, they are a magnificent, serene, and peaceful destination!
Testing Jura culinary specialties
Finally, Saint-Claude is the perfect place to discover the culinary delights of the Jura! From Comté to Pontarlier, not forgetting Macvin, Morbier, and local honey, you’ll find everything you need to fill your refrigerator! The shopkeepers in the town centre will be delighted to introduce you to our delicious local products.
As you can see, Saint-Claude may be a small town, but its rich history and magnificent setting give it a strong identity. While its location in the valley might seem a bit gloomy in winter, the region’s artisanal and natural treasures remain captivating all year round.
Credits: Article and photos ©Passion Jura – Translated in English and edited by and for Travel France Online
