Tour du Jura Vélo Sport is a mountain cycling loop based around Lons-le-Saunier in eastern France. Presented by Jura Tourisme, it connects the quieter landscapes of the Petite Montagne with the climbs and high valleys of the Haut-Jura before returning through lakes and vineyards.
From Lons-le-Saunier to the lake country
Jura Tourisme proposes Lons-le-Saunier as the starting point for the loop, although riders can also join it in places including Arinthod, Moirans-en-Montagne, Saint-Claude and Morez. The first suggested stage heads towards Arinthod through the first plateau and the rolling pastures of the Petite Montagne.
Beyond Arinthod, the journey moves towards Lac de Vouglans and its dam. France Vélo Tourisme highlights views of the reservoir along this section and the toy-making heritage of Moirans-en-Montagne. These stops give the southern part of the circuit a different character from the higher mountain roads ahead.
Saint-Claude and the Haut-Jura climbs
The section from Les Piards to Lamoura reaches Saint-Claude before climbing the Lacets de Septmoncel towards the Station des Rousses. Limestone gorges, upland forests and rounded valleys frame the ride through the Haut-Jura Regional Natural Park. Saint-Claude, Lajoux and Lamoura also offer opportunities to explore local crafts and museums.
This is a serious road ride. France Vélo Tourisme warns that the descent towards Saint-Claude includes a steep, winding section and a busier stretch on the D437. The D436 climb towards Lajoux is also winding and can be busy at peak times, so riders should stay particularly alert.
Lakes, waterfalls and the vineyard return
From the Rousses area, the itinerary continues towards Morez and the Grandvaux. Later, the suggested route reaches the four-lakes plateau and the upper Cascades du Hérisson before heading towards Lac de Chalain. France Vélo Tourisme identifies the Fontenu viewpoint as a possible out-and-back visit for a view over the lake.
The return towards Lons-le-Saunier passes through Jura vineyard country. Château-Chalon sits above the vines, while Baume-les-Messieurs lies in a limestone valley with an abbey and a waterfall. Both make worthwhile places to allow time for a stop before completing the loop.
Planning the ride
Jura Tourisme divides the circuit into six suggested stages, from Lons-le-Saunier to Arinthod, Les Piards, Lamoura, Prénovel and Pont-du-Navoy, then back to Lons-le-Saunier. The stages are a starting point for organising a trip rather than a fixed daily schedule.
The route uses shared minor roads and has substantial climbing; Jura Tourisme recommends it for experienced cyclists and notes that services exist but can be limited. Its green-and-white signs mark the route. Check accommodation, food and repair options for your chosen stages in advance, especially outside the larger towns.