Nordic: St-Cergue, Vallée de Joux, Sainte-Croix/Les Rasses

Its still valleys and high plateaux breathe a timeless tranquillity. Nature plays the main role here in the contrasting, sparsely populated landscape of the Jura massif. It also creates perfect conditions for crosscountry skiing, everywhere you look: no less than 300 km of perfectly prepared trails extend through the Jura of canton Vaud alone.

Of watches and music boxes

The heart of this cross-country ski paradise, one of the most extensive in Europe, is the Vallée de Joux, a picturesque valley known as the cradle of the watchmaking industry. Nature has been generous here, creating a richly contrasting, romantic and magical landscape. Another scenic gem and popular cross-country area extends around St. Cergue at the Givrine pass. In this almost Arctic setting, husky dogs feel at home, and treat guests to thrilling rides on dog sleds – including evocative trips by moonlight. A third cross-country area extends around the charming musical-box village of Sainte-Croix. Visitors can discover the wonderful world of these magical gadgets and other mechanical automata at the CIMA Museum.

The largest lake in the Jura massif is the Lac de Joux. When it freezes over in winter, hundreds of skaters take to the ice – an event that often culminates in a small outdoor fair, and is always a delight to see.