The park was designed in the late 19th century to cater to high-society tourists visiting the Jura for thermal cures.
The thermal waters in the area are naturally saline and were historically extracted for salt production before the spa was developed.
The arboretum features trees classified as 'remarquables' due to their age and size, including giant sequoias planted shortly after the park's founding.
The park layout follows the classic English landscape aesthetic, prioritizing curved paths and hidden vistas rather than symmetrical geometry.
Parc des Bains is a 7-hectare landscaped English-style garden located in Lons-le-Saunier, surrounding the city's historic thermal establishment. The park features a diverse arboretum with notable specimen trees, including ancient sequoias and ginkgo biloba. It is centered around the Lédonia thermal spa complex, which utilizes the town's naturally salty mineral springs. The grounds include formal flower beds, winding gravel paths, and a reflective pond that supports local waterfowl. The site is a heritage landmark associated with the 19th-century hydrotherapy movement in the Jura region. Visitors can access a dedicated music kiosk frequently used for community events. It serves as the primary green lung for the municipality, connected directly to the thermal bath facilities.
The wooden footbridge overlooking the central pond with the thermal building in the background.
Follow the peripheral walking loops to see the largest specimen trees in the arboretum.
Visit the adjacent Lédonia spa complex if you intend to experience the thermal waters firsthand.
Bring a portable chair or blanket, as shaded bench availability varies during high-occupancy summer weekends.
Do not attempt to collect mineral water from non-designated fountains; avoid littering in the duck pond area.
Maintain quiet near the spa area; stay on marked paths to protect sensitive plant beds.
