La line of swallows crosses the Jura from north to south, from Dole to Saint-Claude. This is'one of the most beautiful railway lines in France which will allow you to discover the different facets of the Jura (plains, mountains, gorges, etc.).
Crossing gorges and rivers, passing through viaducts on the side of cliffs, you will be surprised by its impressive works of art and breathtaking landscapes.
Along its 123 km you will discover the variety of Jura landscapes, as well as his viaducts and tunnels, works of art symbols of technical prowess and true testimony of a human adventure from the beginning of the last century!
The fierce desire of Haut-Jura industrialists not to remain isolated in the mountains gave its birth certificate in the 1860s. To convince the Government, a handful of men began to build this route themselves and contributed to its financing. . The original route linking Andelot-en-Montagne to La Cluse via Morez was finally inaugurated on August 10, 1912.
No less than 36 tunnels and 22 viaducts punctuate this line, allowing passengers to enjoy sumptuous and dizzying landscapes from the Dole plain to the Haut-Jura plateaus, passing through the foothills of the vineyards!
This line is today classified by the SNCF as one of its tourist trains and new wagons with large bay windows have replaced the old railcars.
The tourist offices of Morez, Saint-Laurent-en-Grandvaux, Dole and Saint-Claude work together to set up tourist offers on this line throughout the year.
Personalized organized and commented trips will allow you to fully appreciate your excursion in all seasons.
What we see from this line:
- the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans (listed as a UNESCO world heritage site)
- the Chaux forest: the second largest French deciduous forest
- towns including Dole, Arbois, Champagnole, Saint-Laurent, Morez and Saint-Claude for great cultural, historical and artisanal discoveries
- old forges and historic buildings
- peasant houses
- vineyards
- valleys and remote areas...
Swallows: why this name?
The legend says... that the inhabitants of the town of Morez watched from their windows the workers working on the Morbier / Morez Viaduct line and that they had the impression that the workers were talking to swallows! It is said that the Jura residents called the workers working on the line this at the end of the 19th century. A poetic name for a caption line.
You can also travel individually on the line, during regular train times (timetable here, line “St-Claude/Pontarlier/Dole”).
The pets can travel on the TER with their owner with a pet rate ticket. The ticket can be taken directly at the station terminal.
Almost all TERs welcome free bikes Within the limit of available seats. The 3 to 6 locations are accessible depending on the trains. These locations cannot be reserved. It is best to avoid peak times.
Accessibility for people with disabilities or reduced mobility: all the information here. Book your free support service at the latest 24 hours before your trip.
