All hikes in Val-de-Travers

Hike from Les Rochats up to the Chasseron. On foot: Beyond Lake Neuchâtel and, further south, Lake Geneva, more than 250 kilometres of high mountain peaks emerge on the horizon. After passing through vast expanses of grazing land, you reach the home of music boxes and music automatons.

This hike combines the legendary Val de Travers with the sun-drenched plateau of Ste-Croix. It offers one highlight after another, from the village of Môtiers and the bizarre gorge of Poëta Raisse through to the spectacular viewpoint on the Chasseron.

The Areuse stream roars through the gorge. This sometimes bold trail affords incredible views deep into this spectacle of nature. Even on hot summer days, a cool breeze blows.

The Romandy, the French-speaking part of Switzerland, holds many natural experiences. One leads from the charming village of Travers to Couvet in Canton Neuenburg. A stretch that promises unspoilt nature and tranquillity in the Val de Travers, which is famous for it's absinthe.

The first part of this stage is hard going, but worth the effort, as it takes you to the highlight of the tour: the imposing Creux du Van rock arena – Switzerland’s version of the Grand Canyon. Via rolling pastureland, the home of music boxes and music automatons awaits.

In the Creux du Van across Lake Neuchâtel, nature presents itself as a giant natural amphitheatre. Admittedly, though, the prime seats in the 160 metre high wall seem to have been reserved for the ibex!