3 Must-See Natural Wonders in Canton Neuchâtel
Creux du Van
“Creux du Van” is located in Val-de-Travers, north from Neuchâtel. "Creux du Van" is a natural rock cirque of immense proportions that is located between the cantons of Neuenburg and Vaud. Its 160 meter high rock walls surround a four kilometer long and over one kilometer wide valley basin in a horseshoe shape.
This location offers an unbelievable panorama of the Swiss Alps and you can sight chamois and ibex if you’re lucky. The glaciers at first and then the brooks shaped the impressive rock formation. The regional climate in this 25 square kilometer natural reserve is exceptional because it hosts forests and alpine flora in the same arena.
Creux du Van is easily accessible on foot from Noiraigue or by car to the Restaurant du Soliat parking. The Creux du Van cirque is 300m on foot from the restaurant and there’s a hiking route taking you around the horseshoe that takes approximately 1 hour. Chamois and ibex can be spotted on the west end of this hike but I recommend going when the area isn’t too crowded for a better chance to spot them.
Val-de-Travers is also known for its absinthe production : a renowned Swiss speciality alcoholic beverage. There is also a hike called the Absinthe Route on which you can taste this drink. This hike starts in the town of Noiraigue . I haven’t tried it yet but if you have let me know what you think of it.
2. Areuse Gorge
Another wonder of nature close to Creux du Van is the Areuse Gorge between Noiraigue and Boudry. The is a venturous hiking path that goes alongside the gorge with steps and bridges to take you up close to the stream. You can start the hike in Noiraigues and end it in Boudry which is 11km and 3 hours long. Or you can focus on the most beautiful and breathtaking area that is between Champ du Moulin and Boudry and takes 2 hours.
I recommend this hike on hot summer days to escape the heat or in the fall to enjoy the leaves colors. However, in wet weather, the gorge trail is very slippery. Therefore it is recommended to wear good walking shoes and to supervise children well.
I went there in the fall and thought the autumn colors looked amazing.
3. Roches de Moron
I suggest this hike if you are looking for a memorable sunset experience. If you are here for the instagram-worthy picture, no need to go far. You can park your car at the Roches de Moron Restaurant and enjoy the view from here.
If you are feeling adventurous, you can venture out on this panoramic hike over the Doubs Gorge that takes you in a loop to the Chatelot dam.
The Doubs river is a natural border between Switzerland and France in this location. So you’ll be hiking while facing France part of the way.
Another must-see in the close vicinity of Roches de Morons is Le saut du Doubs, a waterfall between France and Switzerland.
