Saicourt brings together Bellelay’s cultural heritage and discoveries involving cheese, hydropower and wetlands. The former Premonstratensian abbey is located in Bellelay, within the municipality of Saicourt. Its history spans the 12th to the 18th century; today, the abbey church serves as a cultural venue and hosts contemporary art exhibitions in summer.
Abbey History and Architecture in Bellelay
The former Bellelay abbey estate forms an architectural and landscape ensemble dating from the 18th century, considered unique in the territory of the former Prince-Bishopric of Basel. The historical context includes the abbey’s former farm. Dating from 1766 to 1768, it is an important testament to the rural heritage of the former Baroque abbey. The farm is also considered the birthplace of Tête de Moine AOP: the history of the abbey and that of the famous cheese come together here in one place.
The Hôtel de l’Ours also tells of the abbey’s former hospitality. It was built in 1698 as an inn for Bellelay Abbey and is the oldest fully preserved testament to the hospitality associated with the abbey. The abbey church itself is the westernmost example of a church built according to the Vorarlberg scheme. This architectural distinction can be explored on guided tours, which also cover the origins of Tête de Moine.
On a guided tour of the abbey church, you can climb one of the church towers and enjoy views across the Petit-Val. The tower is part of the guided visit, while the view puts the valley centre stage. The church also hosts concerts under the title “Concerts au balcon”. Performers include organists from the region, from France and from elsewhere.
Tête de Moine and Traditional Crafts
The interactive Maison de la Tête de Moine museum offers insights into the cheese and how it is made. At the end of the visit, you can sample Tête de Moine. Visitors interested in the product can learn about its production and round off their visit with a tasting.
The Scierie Paroz offers another perspective on local heritage. The current building dates from 1785 and was restored and recommissioned in 2014. The Scierie is one of the last remaining operational sawmills powered by hydropower. Individual visits and guided tours are available by appointment for individuals or small groups. Check appointment arrangements and seasonal access before setting out.
Ponds, Marshland and Nature Trail
The Étang de la Noz covers 1.5 hectares and is located in Saicourt, about one kilometre west of the hamlet of Bellelay. In Bellelay, the Libell’lay nature trail winds its way among ponds, a river and marshes. These habitats provide a home for dragonflies, which are therefore the focus of the trail’s stops.
Libell’lay is 4.8 kilometres long and has twelve stops where visitors can learn about dragonflies. The trail follows the model of a nature detective trail: most stops feature an activity and a riddle. The route therefore offers not only a path through different landscapes, but also a clear thematic focus. Its length, number of stops and riddles are useful details for planning and help distinguish the nature trail from Bellelay’s cultural and historical visits.
Saicourt caters to a range of interests: abbey history and architecture, Tête de Moine and traditional crafts, or a nature trail focused on dragonflies. Visits to the Scierie Paroz require an appointment; for the seasonal exhibition in the abbey church and guided activities, it is worth checking dates and access before travelling.
Discover more destinations: Perrefitte, Roches, Valbirse.
Go to the regional travel overview: Moutier.
