Bernese Jura
Overview
Intro
The high points of this outing for well-prepared cyclists are the panoramic view at the top of the Chasseral and the back roads of the Bernese Jura.
Description
Bienne is quickly left behind as you climb to Orvin then Lamboing. The imposing mast of the Chasseral – the day’s main challenge – heaves into view as you leave Diesse (km 19).
The 8.5km ascent starts at Nods; the 8% average gradient is steady, apart from a welcome level section halfway up. The road passes though woodland, and only on nearing the pass do you again spot the mast of the Chasseral, much closer this time.
The Chasseral pass is at alt 1502m. The descent through the Bugnenets-Savagnières skiing area leads to Saint-Imier, well-known in Swiss watch and clock making circles. This is also where the Mont Crosin pass (alt. 1227m) begins: the road to the summit, 2.5km in length, features a gradient of 7%.
Once this challenge has been overcome, the rest of the loop is generally downhill. After a brief foray into Canton Jura, the route takes you through Bellelay, home of Tête de Moine cheese. Just after Tavannes, a climb of a few hundred metres allows you to add the Pierre-Pertuis pass (alt. 827m) to your list of successes.
At Sonceboz, you have two options for returning to Bienne: the first is the main road down through a number of tunnels, for which you need lights. The alternative is to take the train; the supplement payable for the bike is CHF 1. Either way, the loop ends at Bienne railway station.
Tip from the Grand Tours Project
At the Chasseral pass, carry on up to the summit of the Chasseral (alt. 1606m). The wide-ranging views over the Mittelland region and the Bernese Alps is worth the detour.
www.grandtoursproject.com
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
| Type |
Performance
|
|---|---|
| Start location |
Biel / Bienne
|
| Ascent |
2350 m
|
| Descent |
2350 m
|
| Distance |
93 km
|
| Physical requirements |
Difficult
|
| Season |
April - October
|
