Creux Du Van

Creux Du Van is a breathtaking natural amphitheatre carved into the Swiss Jura mountains, a dramatic rock basin that feels like a cathedral of stone. The sheer cliffs drop 160 metres to a flat valley floor, and the panoramic views from the rim stretch across the Swiss Alps on a clear day. This is a place for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a profound encounter with raw geology.

Highlights & What to See

• Hike the Rim Trail: The classic 13.5 km loop around the entire cirque takes about 4–5 hours and offers ever-changing perspectives of the vertical walls and the valley below. The trail is moderately challenging but well-marked.
• Spot Ibex and Marmots: Creux Du Van is a protected nature reserve, home to a thriving colony of Alpine ibex. You’ll often see them clambering on the cliffs, and marmots whistle from the rocky slopes.
• Summit the Soliat: For the best views, hike to the peak of Le Soliat (1,464 m) on the eastern rim. On a clear day, Mont Blanc is visible in the distance.
• Visit the Ferme du Soliat: A rustic mountain farm near the car park that serves local cheese, rosti, and beer. It’s a perfect spot for a post-hike meal with a view.
• Sunset and Stargazing: The cirque faces west, making it an ideal location for sunset. After dark, the lack of light pollution offers spectacular stargazing.

Suggested Time to Spend

Most visitors spend a full day hiking the rim trail and enjoying the scenery. If you're short on time, a half-day (3–4 hours) allows you to walk part of the rim and still soak in the atmosphere. To truly appreciate the scale, consider arriving early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best light.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Noiraigue: The nearest village and starting point for the hike. A charming Jura settlement with a train station and a few cafés.
• Areuse Gorge: A dramatic limestone canyon near Noiraigue with a spectacular walking trail through tunnels and along the river.
• Neuchâtel: A historic lakeside city with a medieval old town, the Laténium archaeology museum, and excellent restaurants. About 30 minutes by car.
• Lac de Neuchâtel: Switzerland’s largest lake entirely within its borders, perfect for a swim, boat trip, or lakeside stroll.
• Chaumont: A viewpoint above Neuchâtel offering panoramic views over the lake and Alps, accessible by funicular.

Please check official sources for current details.