- Route: 95 Au fil du Doubs Etappe 3 Goumois – Soubey
- Region: Urwald-Weg (Canton Jura)
- Theme: Forest Hikes
- Distance: 13 km
- Duration: 3.5 h
- Ascent: 200 m
- Difficulty (SAC scale): T1
- Terrain: Wanderland-Route 95 · regionales Netz · SAC T1
- Attractions along the route: Rocher du Singe, Les Hormets
- Legend: Das weisse Pferd der Freiberge (Le Cheval Blanc des Franches-Montagnes)
Discover this enchanting fairytale forest hike on the 95 Au fil du Doubs Etappe 3 Goumois – Soubey, featuring the legend of Das weisse Pferd der Freiberge (Le Cheval Blanc des Franches-Montagnes) across a 13 km route with a SAC T1 difficulty and a 3.5 h walking time in the Canton of Jura.
Through the Wilderness Along the Doubs
Your journey begins in the picturesque border village of Goumois, where the river Doubs carves its way through steep, wooded limestone cliffs. From here, you follow the regional hiking network along the gently flowing water, stepping into a magical landscape that feels wonderfully untouched by modern time. The trail is classified as SAC T1, making it an accessible and technically straightforward adventure, though the sheer distance of 13 km requires a decent baseline of endurance for the 3.5 h walking time. As you navigate the winding paths beneath a dense canopy of ancient trees, you will quickly understand why this stretch is celebrated as a true paradise for nature lovers.
Is this hike suitable for children? Yes, absolutely! Thanks to the easy terrain (SAC T1) and the absence of technical hazards, families can safely enjoy the great outdoors here. However, because of the total length of 13 km, it is best suited for older children and teenagers who are already accustomed to longer walking days. Regular breaks by the riverbanks provide plenty of opportunities for young explorers to rest and discover the local wildlife.
Along the way, several striking landmarks enhance the experience. One major touristenattraktion is the impressive Rocher du Singe, a prominent rock formation offering breathtaking viewpoints over the river valley. Further along the trail, another notable touristenattraktion awaits at Les Hormets, where sweeping vistas open up across the wild, meandering course of the Doubs. These scenic highlights invite you to pause, breathe in the fresh forest air, and capture unforgettable memories before you eventually reach your destination in the tranquil village of Soubey.
The Legend of the White Horse of the Franches-Montagnes
As you wander deeper into the primeval ambiance of the Urwald-Weg, the whispers of local folklore seem to echo through the whispering branches. The region is famously shrouded in the tale of Das weisse Pferd der Freiberge (Le Cheval Blanc des Franches-Montagnes), a ghostly and magnificent creature said to roam the misty plateaus and dense forests under the moonlight. According to legend, this ethereal white steed appears only to pure-hearted travelers who have lost their way, guiding them silently through the dark woods to safety before vanishing like morning fog. Immersed in these ancient woodlands, every rustle in the undergrowth feels like a fleeting glimpse of the mythical animal, adding a deeply atmospheric and magical dimension to your hiking adventure in the Swiss Jura.
Experience this hike with a GPS audio guide and the matching legend right in the app: Legends & Stories, Navigation & Offline Maps.
Photo: Adrian Rivera / Pexels
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour take?
The hike takes approximately 3.5 hours over a distance of 13 km with a difficulty rating of SAC T1.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, because the technical terrain is rated SAC T1, but it is best suited for older children due to the 13 km length.
How do I get to the starting point?
You can reach Goumois by car via regional roads, or by taking public transportation using local bus services connecting from regional train stations.
Which legend will you hear along the route?
You will encounter the legend of Das weisse Pferd der Freiberge (Le Cheval Blanc des Franches-Montagnes).
