The Tour du Jura Vélo — Loisirs is a cycling loop through the western Jura and neighbouring Doubs. Presented by Jura Tourisme, it links riverside riding with forest, wine villages and the ponds of Bresse. Dole is the suggested starting town, although riders can join elsewhere.
From Dole into the forest
Begin with time in Dole, where the collegiate church and the birthplace of Louis Pasteur offer reasons to explore before riding. The first part of the loop shares EuroVelo 6, following the Doubs valley towards Ranchot. Towpaths, locks and waterside villages give this section a distinct river character.
At Ranchot, the itinerary turns towards the Voie des Salines and the forest of Chaux. The forest once supported crafts that depended on wood and furnaces, including pottery, glassmaking and metalworking. The route continues towards Arc-et-Senans and its Royal Saltworks, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Vineyards, cheese and the return through Bresse
Beyond the Loue valley, the route heads towards Arbois through Jura wine country. Arbois has a long connection with Louis Pasteur: his family home is now a museum. Poligny, further along the itinerary, is associated with Comté cheese and has a museum devoted to it.
From Poligny the ride passes vineyard villages, Frontenay, Domblans and Arlay before entering Bresse Jurassienne. Fields, waterways and ponds change the scenery on the way towards Chaumergy. The return crosses the Finage plain and passes Chaussin and Tavaux, where the route rejoins EuroVelo 6 for the journey beside the Doubs back to Dole.
Side trips and planning
Jura Tourisme proposes five stages, with optional excursions to Salins-les-Bains and Baume-les-Messieurs. The Grande Saline at Salins-les-Bains shares UNESCO World Heritage recognition with the Royal Saltworks at Arc-et-Senans. Allow separate time for these visits when choosing daily stops.
The loop combines greenways and cycle routes with small roads shared with motor traffic. Jura Tourisme advises that riders need some experience to feel comfortable on the shared sections. The route is signed clockwise with green and white signs. Dole is one possible base; Arbois and Poligny are among the other suggested entry towns.
The tourism office's stage guide identifies accommodation and nearby services, while its Jura cycling guide covers practical needs such as food, pharmacies and cycle repairs. Check the individual stage information when arranging stops, and choose a schedule that leaves room for the places you want to visit.