Discovery of caves 1966 (≈ 1966)
By Fred Meyer, Patrice Meyer and Pierre Murat.
1989
Open to the public
Open to the public 1989 (≈ 1989)
Start of tourist exploitation.
2013
New Gallery Fitted
New Gallery Fitted 2013 (≈ 2013)
Easy access for visitors.
23 mars 2024
Fire of the host building
Fire of the host building 23 mars 2024 (≈ 2024)
A week before the seasonal reopening.
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui
Aujourd'hui Aujourd'hui (≈ 2025)
Position de référence.
Key figures
Fred Meyer - Discoverer
Co-discoverer of caves in 1966.
Patrice Meyer - Discoverer
Co-discoverer of caves in 1966.
Pierre Murat - Discoverer
Co-discoverer of caves in 1966.
Origin and history
The Moido caves are an underground network located in the Jura forest, in the commune of Molain. Discovered in 1966 by Fred Meyer, Patrice Meyer and Pierre Murat, they became an emblematic site of the region. Their opening to the public in 1989 marked the beginning of their tourist exploitation, with a current attendance of over 50,000 annual visitors.
The tour, lasting about 50 minutes, includes a presentation film, a guided tour of the galleries, a sound and light show in the last room, and a space dedicated to bats with a labyrinth for children. In 2013, a new gallery was designed to facilitate access, but a fire ravaged the welcoming building in March 2024, shortly before the seasonal reopening.
These caves occupy an important place in the franc-comtois karst heritage, as evidenced by their mention in specialized works such as Le Karst franc-comtois (2024). Their management combines natural preservation and tourist development, with facilities designed for the public while respecting the underground ecosystem.
The site ranks among the most visited in the Jura department, attracting as much for its geological formations as for its pedagogical and playful approach. The 2024 fire is a challenge for its sustainability, but also highlights its anchoring in the local tourist landscape.
