Jura Mountains and Fribourg

Sights & Activities

The town of Charmey is the location of thermal baths which visitors from all over the country and the world visit to get pampered and take advantage of its therapeutic properties. The surrounding areas are also ideal for walking and mountain biking.

The nearby Jaun Pass features a beautiful waterfall and an old cemetery that bears interesting wood carvings. It is also ideal for nature walking and animal viewing during summer. In winter, the area is also popular among skiers who often take their families with them.

Water sports enthusiasts often head out to the town of Estavayer to use its marina and beaches. There is also a water ski lift that is popular among visiting families. An enjoyable stroll around town will let visitors behold medieval structures that are beautifully preserved for the enjoyment of present and future generations. Estavayer is also the location of an unusual attraction, the Frog Museum which contains stuffed frogs depicting human situations and scenes. These collections have been in display since 1850 and are definitely worth a visit. The town is also near the largest wetland area in the country—the Grande Caricaie. This nature preserve is also a popular bird watching destination.

Numerous medieval structures can also be found in the Old Town of Fribourg, most of them with lovely Gothic facades. The area also features the St. Nicolas Cathedral, distinctive with its unfinished tower. Visitors to the cathedral will also get to behold its magnificent glass stained windows.

The region is also where the famous Gruyère cheese is made, in the town of Gruyères. The town itself is surrounded by serene pastoral scenes that are both feast to the eyes and to the senses. The town also features its own medieval castle that houses a museum showcasing the history and culture of the area.

Most skiing activities in the region are done in Moléson, where several ski lifts provide services to vacationing families and friends.

The town of Murten is situated on the banks of the river bearing the same name. It is another idyllic town that boasts of spectacular sunset views over the lake. Several bicycle routes are found around town for leisurely use and for exercise. The lake itself provides opportunities for water sports, such as sailing, fishing, canoeing, water skiing, and wind surfing.

Weather

The climate in the Jura Mountains and Fribourg region is described as moderate. The summer months of July to August have temperatures that range from 18°C to 28°C. During winter, the temperature drops below freezing point, especially during the months of January to February. As one goes higher in altitude, the colder the temperature becomes. However, the area experiences no drastic changes in weather conditions, making it ideal for visit the whole year through, depending on the type of activities you wish to indulge in.