Bois-d'Amont

Bois-d'Amont is a commune in the High Jura, nestled in the Jura massif at approximately 1,100 metres altitude, near the Swiss border. A forest village par excellence, it is known for its traditional wood craftsmanship — notably the manufacture of eyeglasses and wooden toys — and for its landscapes of coniferous forests, peatlands and pastures. In winter, it comes alive around cross-country skiing; in summer, it offers hiking routes through preserved countryside.

Practical information at a glance

• Altitude: approximately 1,100 m — pack warm clothing even in summer.
• Access: car recommended from Saint-Claude (approximately 20 km) or Morez; roads sometimes snowy in winter.
• Cross-country skiing season: December to March depending on snowfall.
• Summer hiking: marked trails accessible from June to October.
• Accessibility for disabled visitors: limited on natural trails; the village centre is accessible.

What to see

The village stretches along the Bienne valley, surrounded by spruce and fir forests. The High Jura peatlands, classified as a Natura 2000 zone, are accessible on foot from Bois-d'Amont. Traditional Comté farmhouses — large timber buildings with overhanging roofs — dot the landscape. In winter, the cross-country skiing trails of the Espace Nordique Jurassien network depart from the village.

History and context

Bois-d'Amont developed around forestry and wood craftsmanship from the 18th century onwards. The High Jura region is historically the cradle of French eyeglass manufacturing: Morez and its surroundings, including Bois-d'Amont, supplied a large portion of national production. Wooden toy manufacturing also shaped the local economy, perpetuating expertise passed down through generations.

Highlights of your visit

The High Jura peatlands

The peatlands near Bois-d'Amont are home to rare flora: sphagnum mosses, sundews, cotton grasses. Marked trails allow you to explore them without causing damage. These wetland habitats rank among the best preserved in the Jura massif.

Cross-country skiing

In winter, Bois-d'Amont is a starting point for the Espace Nordique Jurassien network, one of France's largest cross-country skiing areas. The trails traverse forests and snow-covered glades, with routes for all levels.

Wood craftsmanship

The local tradition of woodworking remains vibrant. A few workshops and producers continue the manufacture of wooden toys and objects. The Eyeglass Museum in Morez traces the history of this regional industry.

Photography tips

The low morning light on snow-covered coniferous forests offers striking contrasts in winter. In summer, peatlands photographed at day's end reveal golden reflections on the water. Comté farmhouses lend themselves well to wide-angle framing with the massif as a backdrop.

Location and access

Bois-d'Amont is located in the Jura department (39), in the Bourgogne-Franche-Comté region, on the border with Switzerland. The commune is accessible by car from Morez (a few kilometres away) or Saint-Claude. The nearest railway station is Morez, on the Hirondelles line connecting Dole to Saint-Claude — a line renowned for its spectacular viaducts and tunnels. In winter, shuttle services may serve the Nordic domains depending on the season.

Nearby attractions

• Morez — world capital of eyeglass manufacturing, just a few kilometres away, with its dedicated museum and railway viaducts.
• Lac des Rousses — High Jura lake ideal for summer bathing and winter skating.
• Les Rousses — neighbouring winter sports resort, with alpine and cross-country skiing, on the Swiss border.
• Saint-Claude — town known for briar pipes and diamond cutting, set in the Bienne gorges.
• High Jura Regional Natural Park — protected setting encompassing Bois-d'Amont, with trails, peatlands and wildlife.