The Jura Crest Trail is considered the classic among national long-distance trails. Signalization of the route, starting at Zurich and ending just before Genève, began as early as 1905. It links two major Swiss towns and as the name suggests, leads over the Swiss Jura heights. This makes a sweeping arc towards the northwest, so those hiking this trail go a little round the bend – and over the language boundary!
Luggage drop-off in Solothurn. Short train ride to Oberdorf and by cable car up to Weissenstein, where you reach the Jura Crest Trail. From the roof of Canton Solothurn, with views across the Jura arc to the Mittelland and snow-capped Alps and on through forests and typical Jura meadows. The first third is also a Planetenweg (planet path). Language border at Montagne de Romont.
From the low-lying Schüss-Valley to the crest of the Bernese Jura. An almost constant, yet comfortable climb to scale the Chasseral, already seen from afar. Sensational panoramic view with the Mittelland lakes: a feast for the eyes. From Chasseral transfer down to Nods.
In the morning transfer up to Chasseral where you continue your walk. A varied hike between the upper St. Imier Valley and the Val de Ruz Valley with the winter-sports resort, Le Pâquier (hometown of ski-ace Didier Cuche). From the top of the pass Vue-des-Alpes by bus or taxi to La Chaux-de-Fonds.
By bus or taxi back to the Vue-des-Alpes pass. Enjoy the fantastic panoramic view from the high mountain chain with the Tête de Ran and Mont Racine peaks. The slabs of the rocky spur provide a breathtaking view down to Lac de Neuchâtel, before making the steep descent to Noiraigue.
The perspiration at the start of this stage is well worth it: the highlight of the tour is the natural rock amphitheatre of Creux du Van, Swiss equivalent of the Grand Canyon. From the heights you can enjoy wonderful views on the sparkling waters of Lake Neuenburg. You continue down to Couvet after your hike.
approx. 5 h
approx. 16 km
915 m
420 m
Day
7
Departure or extension
Tour character
For the steep ascents a good physical condition is needed. The trails are easy to walk, but they may be slippery on wet days.
Transfer Vue-des-Alpes – La Chaux-de-Fonds – Vue-des-Alpes
Costs for luggage pick-up at the station (for direct arrival)
Subsidy for arrival by train
Carefully elaborated route description
Detailed travel documents (1 x per room) incl. SwitzerlandMobility Plus subscription
Service-Hotline
Note:
Rides with cable cars and public transport (approx. CHF 35.- per person with half fare) not included.
Tourist tax, if due, is not included in the price!
Reservation fee of CHF 15 per adult (incl. legally required customer money protection)
Information
Arrival/Parking/Departure:
Arrival by public transport to Solothurn. If you arrive directly, hand in your luggage at the luggage counter by 10:00 a.m. at the latest.
Departure by public transport from Couvet. In case of direct departure, luggage can be picked-up at the partner hotel.
Travel Documents
Travel documents "digital”
In future we will reduce the amount of printed documents. You will receive instructions to help you find your way around using the SwitzerlandMobility app. We will provide you with further information online. In advance you will receive a small package of documents with the following contents:
On the way, you can easily find your way with the SwitzerlandMobility app and other freely accessible aids. Background information and all other documents are delivered electronically and can be downloaded to your mobile phone in advance.
Let us know if you don't want to do without maps. We will send them to you free of charge.