Unique moor landscape at Etang de la Gruère
Overview
Intro
The highlight of this hike is the nature reserve of Etang de la Gruère, where a path takes you around Switzerland’s largest moor lake, and the acidic boggy soil provides the ideal conditions for unique flora and fauna to thrive.
Description
Moulin de la Gruère – Etang de la Gruère – La Theurre – La Cerlatez – Saignelégier
The hike begins at the Moulin de la Gruère bus stop and takes you up to Etang de la Gruère. A lake was formed in the 17th century in this former peat extraction area and a dam was built on the lake for a mill. Today, Switzerland’s largest upland moor is a protected landscape and provides a habitat for many different species of plants and animals, some of which are threatened with extinction. Children will love walking over the springy moor soil and crossing the wooden boardwalks and small bridges along the lake trail. Boards positioned around the lake provide information about the flora and fauna in the surrounding environment. It is worth taking a detour to the nearby Les Cerlataz nature centre.
The vast, open plateau at Saignelégier conveys a sense of independence and freedom. As you head towards Saignelégier, take the time to admire the vast landscape of the Franches-Montagnes region. The gentle, rolling plateau is picture-postcard material with grazing horses and cows and small spruce forests. The town of Saignelégier is home to the Freiberger horse. The famous “Marché-Concours”, a national festival dedicated to the breed, is held here every August.
An enjoyable tour includes the careful planning of the same. Please inform yourself in advance at the local information center about the route and weather conditions. Depending on the season and weather conditions, this route may be blocked or interrupted
Start location |
Saignelégier
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Direction |
One way
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Altitude (meter above sea level) |
1019 m
|
Ascent |
123 m
|
Descent |
135 m
|
Distance |
8.5 km
|
Duration |
2 h 5 min
|
Technical requirements |
Easy
|
Physical requirements |
Easy
|
Season |
April - October
|
Theme |
Along Water, Through a nature conservation area
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Category |
Active, Hiking, Nature
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Suitable for children with age |
6 - 9 years, 10 - 13 years, 14+ Years
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