Montbeliardot: Arboretum and Hiking Trails

Montbeliardot can be explored through a range of nature spots and hiking destinations. The Arboretum de Montbéliardot is a place to explore, picnic, and relax. Several routes also pass through the commune or include the arboretum in their route description. You can choose from a range of options: botanical theme trails, circular walks with stated distances and walking times, and viewpoints across the landscape.

Arboretum and Orchid Trails

The arboretum lies on the outskirts of Montbeliardot, in the direction of Bonnétage, and is a nature viewpoint. Visitors can explore nature there, as well as find a place to picnic or relax. A picnic spot is located there halfway along the Circuit des Crêts. The Ruisseau du Pissoux route also passes by the arboretum, where hikers can take a short break.

The Sentier des Orchidées focuses on flora, especially orchids. This themed trail is 2 km long. The Chemin des Orchidées is different: it leads from the Sentier Botanique de l’Arboretum de Montbéliardot along an old dry-stone wall and over a ridge. Those interested in the route will find a sequence of a botanical trail, wall, and ridge. Individual obstacles can vary by season; check trail conditions before setting out.

Comparing Two Circular Walks

The Circuit des Crêts is a moderately difficult circular walk covering 9.8 km, with a stated duration of 3 hours and 15 minutes. The route passes through Montbeliardot and runs between the Plateau du Russey and the Dessoubre Valley. It is located in the Parc naturel régional du Doubs Horloger. On the return, the trail follows the Vie au Loup along the edge of the cliffs, where there is a panoramic view across the entire plateau. Yellow-and-blue markings and signposts marked 42 indicate the route.

The Ruisseau du Pissoux is a difficult circular walk covering 20.1 km; the stated duration is 6 hours. The route is described as challenging and as passing through a wild, green natural landscape. Compared with the Circuit des Crêts, it is longer and takes more time according to the stated figures. The different distances, times, and difficulty ratings help you compare the scope of the two circular walks. Conditions and signage on the Ruisseau du Pissoux route may change; check the latest route information before setting out.

Nature Experiences and Trip Planning

When choosing an outing, it is worth considering what you would like to see along the way and how much time you want to set aside. The Circuit des Crêts combines its circular walk with a return along the cliffs and views across the plateau; there is also a picnic spot at the arboretum halfway along the route. The Ruisseau du Pissoux emphasizes a longer walking time and a challenging character, with the option of a short break at the arboretum. The Sentier des Orchidées, by contrast, focuses on flora and orchids, while the Chemin des Orchidées follows a different sequence, with a wall and a ridge.

Montbeliardot therefore offers several specific options for nature-focused days: a botanically themed trail, a longer route with a picnic spot, and a shorter circular walk with a stated moderate difficulty rating. Before planning, compare the stated route lengths and walking times, and for the relevant trails, take into account obstacles or route conditions that may vary by season.

Discover more destinations: Mouthe, La Chaux, Larnod, Saint-Point-Lac, Nans-sous-Sainte-Anne, Granges-Narboz, La Grange, Lods

See the overview of the wider region: Doubs.