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There are great many things to do in Italy, and so are in Saint-Ursanne.
Nestled in the heart of Switzerland’s Jura Mountains, Saint-Ursanne is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
With its charming cobblestone streets, ancient castle ruins, and breathtaking views of the Doubs river, there is no shortage of enchanting experiences to be had in this fairy tale-like town.
Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or simply seeking refuge from the busy world, Saint-Ursanne has something for everyone.
So, come along and explore all the wonders this captivating destination has to offer.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Saint-Ursanne:
1. Old town of Saint-Ursanne
The old town of Saint-Ursanne is a charming medieval village located in the canton of Jura, Switzerland. It is named after Saint Ursicinus, the patron saint of the town.
What to see or do: – Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the well-preserved medieval architecture.
Don’t miss: – The annual medieval festival, held in July, featuring music, dancing and jousting knights.
Insider travel tips: – The town can be reached by public transport, with regular trains and buses from major cities in Switzerland.
2. Collegiale of Saint-Ursanne
The Collegiale of Saint-Ursanne is a historic church located in the town of Saint-Ursanne in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can marvel at the stunning Romanesque architecture of the church, which dates back to the 12th century. The interior is equally impressive, with beautiful stained-glass windows, intricate carvings, and ornate altarpieces.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to climb the church tower for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The tower dates back to the 15th century and offers breathtaking views of the Jura Mountains and the Doubs River.
Insider travel tips: – Plan your visit for a sunny day to make the most of the beautiful views from the tower.
3. Cluniac Priory of Saint-Ursanne
What to see or do: Admire the impressive Romanesque architecture of the priory church and take a walk in the peaceful cloister garden. Visit the on-site museum to learn about the history and daily life of the monks who once lived there.
Don’t miss: The intricate Romanesque capitals in the church, featuring decorative carvings of biblical scenes and fantastic creatures.
Insider travel tips: Check out the priory’s website ahead of time for information on guided tours, concerts, and other events.
While in Saint-Ursanne, also take a stroll through the historic old town and cross the stunning medieval bridge over the Doubs River.
4. Maison du Tourisme
Maison du Tourisme is the tourist center of Saint-Ursanne, a charming medieval town in the Jura region of Switzerland.
What to see or do: Stop by the center to get information about the town’s history, culture, and attractions. Take a stroll on the cobblestone streets and admire the well-preserved buildings and churches.
Explore the Jura mountains on foot or by bike, and enjoy the breathtaking views from the surrounding hills.
Don’t miss: Visit the 12th-century Romanesque church, the Collégiale de St-Ursanne, which houses a beautiful organ and a collection of religious art.
Take a walk along the river Doubs, which runs through the town, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this idyllic place.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the autumn months to see the beautiful foliage of the Jura mountains. Don’t forget to try the local cheese, Comté, and the famous Jura wines.
If you’re traveling with kids, stop by the Musée du Jouet et de la Miniature, which showcases a collection of toys and miniatures from different eras.
And if you’re feeling adventurous, go on a night hike to see the stars in the clear Jura sky.
5. Ursuline Convent
Ursuline Convent is a historic building complex located in the charming town of Saint-Ursanne in Switzerland. It dates back to the 18th century and was initially a convent for nuns.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful Baroque architecture of the Ursuline Convent, including the impressive Chapel of Sainte-Ursule with its ornate interior.
There is also a museum on site that provides a fascinating insight into the history of the Ursulines and their way of life.
Don’t miss: Make sure to admire the views from the convent’s impressive terrace, which overlooks the surrounding valley and provides stunning vistas of the town and its medieval fortifications.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting in the summer months, be sure to attend one of the many concerts or cultural events that are held in the Ursuline Convent’s courtyard.
And for those interested in hiking, the nearby Jura Mountains offer some fantastic trails with spectacular views.
6. Castle of Neuhaus
What to see or do: Explore the ruins of the historical castle, experience the beautiful views of the village and countryside from the top of the castle towers, and take a step back in time as you walk through the castle corridors.
Don’t miss: The breathtaking views from the top of the castle towers and the beautifully preserved castle walls covered in lush greenery.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs to climb in order to reach the top of the castle towers.
Additionally, visit during the summer months to experience seasonal exhibitions and events.
7. Porte Saint-Pierre
Porte Saint-Pierre is a historic gate located in the charming town of Saint-Ursanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the gate’s impressive architecture, which dates back to the 13th century. Walk through the gate to enter the old town and explore its quaint streets and beautiful buildings.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to take in the stunning views of the town and the surrounding valley from the top of the gate.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the summer months when the town holds various festivals and events.
8. Chapelle du Vorbourg
A charming chapel located on top of a hill overlooking the picturesque town of Saint-Ursanne in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visit the chapel and admire its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains. Take a peaceful walk around the hillside and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The beautiful stained glass windows, which add a colorful touch to the chapel’s interior.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the walk up to the chapel can be steep.
9. Musee d’histoire ancienne de l’abbaye
Musee d’histoire ancienne de l’abbaye is a history museum located in the ancient Abbey of Saint-Ursanne in Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the museum’s collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history of the abbey and the region. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the 18th-century model of the abbey, which provides a unique perspective on the layout and architecture of the historic site.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays, so plan your visit accordingly.
10. Musee de la boissellerie
Musee de la boissellerie is a small museum located in the charming medieval village of Saint-Ursanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: The museum offers a fascinating insight into the history of Swiss woodworking and traditional barrel-making techniques.
Visitors can admire the intricate tools and machinery used in the process, as well as a collection of beautifully crafted wooden objects.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to see demonstrations of the ancient art of coopering, where skilled craftsmen use age-old techniques to shape and assemble wooden barrels.
Insider travel tips: Check the museum’s website for opening times, as they are limited.
11. Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Haut
Chapelle Notre-Dame-du-Haut in Saint-Ursanne is a famous pilgrimage site and an iconic work of modern architecture.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the unique and unconventional design of the chapel, which features a curved roof and tilted walls. Inside the chapel, visitors can admire the intricate stained glass windows and minimalist interior.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to see the chapel from different angles and perspectives. Exploring the grounds around the chapel will offer amazing views of the building and its surroundings.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear comfortable shoes as they will need to walk up a hill to reach the chapel. Additionally, visitors should plan their visit for the morning or afternoon as the chapel is closed from 12pm to 2pm.
The town of Saint-Ursanne itself is also worth exploring, and visitors can find cafes, restaurants, and shops nearby.
12. Eglise Saint-Maurice
Eglise Saint-Maurice is a Romanesque-style church located in the charming medieval town of Saint-Ursanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Admire the impressive stone architecture of the church and learn about its history dating back to the 11th century. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of Saint-Ursanne and soak in the medieval atmosphere.
Don’t miss: The beautiful stained glass windows dating back to the 12th century and the organ built in 1764 by Swiss organ builder, Carl Joseph Riepp.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the annual Saint-Ursanne medieval festival held in July to experience the lively street performances, markets, and concerts. Take a hike in the surrounding Doubs Nature Park for stunning views of the landscape.
13. Jura Aventure Parc
Jura Aventure Parc is a high ropes course and adventure park located in the picturesque town of Saint-Ursanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Visitors can test their limits and challenge themselves on a variety of tree-top courses with varying levels of difficulty. Activities include zip lines, climbing walls, suspended bridges, and more.
Don’t miss: The park offers a unique “night adventure” experience where visitors can navigate the courses in the dark with headlamps and glow sticks.
Insider travel tips: – The park can get busy during peak season, so it’s recommended to book tickets in advance.
14. Les Échelles de la Mort
Les Échelles de la Mort (The Ladders of Death) is a historic hiking trail that takes visitors through the Jura Mountains in Switzerland.
What to see or do: The trail is known for its steep incline and narrow paths that are carved into the rock face. The hike offers stunning views of Saint-Ursanne and the surrounding valleys.
Don’t miss: At the top of the trail, visitors can explore the ruins of an old castle and a small chapel.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should wear sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for a challenging climb. It can also get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it’s best to go earlier in the day.
15. La Grotte aux Fées
A stunning underground cave system located in the medieval town of Saint-Ursanne, Switzerland.
What to see or do: Explore the spectacular stalactites and stalagmites that adorn the cave’s walls. Take in the eerie atmosphere and natural beauty of the underground formations on a guided tour.
Don’t miss: The impressive underground lake, which adds an extra element of mystery to this already enchanting attraction.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the cave can be slippery. Also, bring a jacket as the temperature can drop significantly below ground.
Photography is not permitted inside the cave.