Leisure activities / Culture / Tourism

Though Saignelégier may not belong to those areas of economic importance, it is inarguably one of the most important tourist areas of the Canton of Jura. The local infrastructure is ideal for the comfort of guests. The grandiose community hall houses an indoor swimming pool with an outdoor slide, an ice rink, a fitness and gymnastics hall, a sauna, tanning beds, a large conference room, a Dojo for judo as well as a hotel and sleeping accommodations. Saignelégier offers sporting attractions such as a tennis hall, a horseback riding hall complete with riding school, bowling lanes, and an outdoor training parcours, „La Randoline“, which also features interesting aspects of the natural surroundings on its individual signs. Camping enthusiasts need not travel far to pitch their tent – the Lake of Gruère is very nearby.

Hikers can enjoy the beautiful trails surrounding the lake year-round. Nature lovers can learn all about this important nature reserve by reading the accompanying guides, learning all about the function of a lake swamp on the local ecosystem. The nature centre La Cerlatez is not far from the lake and offers its countless visitors plentiful information about the area’s natural treasures.

Two magnificent outlooks feature the cliffs of Sommêtres and Cortinat.

There is plenty of culture in the area. Those who enjoy ecclesiastical art will wish to visit the Church of Saignelégier, which happens to be the biggest church in the Jura. The precious altar in the church once stood in the Abbey of Bellelay.

The Café du Soleil plays host to concerts, readings, exhibitions and other cultural activities throughout the year.

Given the humble demographic of the capital of the Franches-Montagnes, it is amazing how many wonderful events occur throughout the year: Overwhelming proof of the dynamic nature of its inhabitants.

Amongst these events is the Marché-Concours, held every year on the second Sunday in August. This event is the most spectacular local tradition on offer in the Jura. Held for the first time in 1897, this celebration of horse fancy has drawn countless visitors near and far in the years since its debut.

Thanks to a relatively high altitude, the area of the Franches -Montagnes is assured plenty of snowfall during winter. This is Saignelégier’s chance to really shine as a winter sport destination. During January of each year, the renowned dogsled race takes place, drawing numerous crowds.