In Roches, traces of past work meet a striking Jura landscape. Discoveries include a protected iron furnace, archaeological evidence and historic architectural features. The Gorges de Moutier also shape the surrounding landscape. If you choose Roches as your destination, you’ll find a range of ways to explore the area’s culture, nature and activities.
Archaeological traces of ironworking
The remains of the iron furnace in Roches are protected by a glazed shelter and are open to the public. The iron furnace at the archaeological site dates to around 1200 AD. In Combe Chopin, archaeologists found several charcoal-burning platforms from different periods, ranging in diameter from 10 to 14 metres. Three lime kilns uncovered in Roches are considered representative examples of modern-era installations. The evidence therefore spans several periods, from the charcoal-burning platforms to the medieval iron furnace and the modern-era lime kilns. The Roches–Combe Chopin archaeological trail explores the Jura’s pre-industrial history.
Gorges de Moutier and the landscape
The Gorges de Moutier are part of the nationally important IFP 1021 landscape area, which also includes Roches. Between Moutier and Roches, they form a narrow, winding and unspoilt passage. A series of limestone ridges runs along both sides of the Birse, often crowned with pine trees. Between them lie wooded ravines filled with scree. This succession of rocky ridges and ravines gives the landscape its distinctive character.
You can also explore the area on two wheels: the Tour du Raimeux starts in Moutier, initially passes through the Gorges de Moutier towards Roches, and then continues to Rebeuvelier. The route is 26 kilometres long, with 644 metres of ascent and 644 metres of descent. The stated direction is important: the route heads towards Roches before continuing to Rebeuvelier. In the surrounding area, hikers, climbers and paragliders make use of the Raimeux area.
Historic routes and buildings
The nationally important historic transport route IVS JU 1.0.3 includes the section from Moulin des Roches to La Roche St-Jean (BE). At the start of the section, by Moulin des Roches, stands a carved limestone bearing the inscription “XVI Lieues”, indicating the distance from Bern. In the Chaives Roches section, an opening in the rock contains a wrought-iron cross on a white limestone pedestal.
The Forge de Roches lies on the Birse in a wooded ravine between Delémont and Moutier. Its two wheels were powered by the river. The industrial buildings were once accessible via a narrow wooden bridge; check the current access arrangements locally before visiting.
The Trondai is a former farmhouse dated to 1696 and is considered typical of the region. Its Jura-style architecture includes a raised masonry living area, a mixed timber-and-stone outbuilding and a two-part gabled roof. Authentic features have been preserved inside, including a vaulted kitchen. These described architectural features give the former farm its distinctive character.
Farm cooking and activities in the surrounding area
The Ferme de la Combe in Roches is located on the Montagne de Moutier, with views of the Weissenstein. Isabelle Habegger cooks for guests visiting the farm, using produce from the farm itself and from the Bernese Jura. This adds a distinctive culinary perspective to a visit to the area. Along the Birse, the stretches around Roches are among the best for dry-fly fishing. Check the current regulations before fishing.
The area offers a range of themes: archaeological evidence and historic architectural features sit alongside the landscape of the Gorges de Moutier and activities in the wider area. You can focus your visit to Roches on Jura history, scenery or activities, without combining them into a single excursion.
Discover more destinations: Valbirse, Perrefitte, Saicourt.
Return to the main travel guide: Moutier.
