Neuchâtel Bike

The route ascends almost from the beginning all the way up to Chaumont mountain at 1100 m. The La Coudre – Chaumont funicular is a good alternative to ease into this trail. A short side trip to the observation tower at the top should not be disregarded because the views of the town and the lake of Neuchâtel, Lake Biel and Lake Murten are fantastic. First in the forest, then across meadows the route follows the ridge to Chuffort before it circles the Val-de-Ruz district and climbs up to the Vue des Alpes Pass. In good weather, the amazing views from there of the entire Alpine mountain chain are a well-earned reward. The city of La Chaux-de-Fonds lays claim to famous former inhabitants, among them the architect Le Corbusier and the automobile pioneer Louis Chevrolet. It is still considered the cradle of the watchmaking industry.

The route continues to the Saut de Doubs, where the waters of this border river thunder an impressive 27 metres to the depths. After Le Locle, the route winds its way to La Brévine along the Swiss-French border along the famous «Sentier des Douaniers» (customs officers’ trail). Continue via the border hills to the banks of the Areuse and take a short detour to the Creux du Van, the scenic highlight of the tour. The impressive rock basin is one of the most stunning places in the Jura Mountains.

The forests and vineyards of the lower part of the region can be explored on the section passing through the famous Areuse Gorge. The last section is a flat and easy ride, and a well-earned treat too. On the way to your destination Neuchâtel, you will pass the «Pointe du Grain» headland as well as numerous beaches, kiosks and welcoming restaurants.