"Teeter Over the Edge of a Vast Rock Basin The canton of Neuchâtel is delightful territory for keen walkers, the best of which is a quite spectacular natural basin (cirque). Creux-du-Van can be approached by car from the Val de Travers, a spot of wondrous beauty where Genevan philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau walked regularly preparing theories. Then, on foot, head left at Noiraigue and on the ‘path with 14 bends’ to find the immense nature reserve measuring approximately 1,400 meters wide and 150 meters in depth. The walk is not for the faint hearted especially if you try the ascent through the basin and up the side path, the Sentier du Single. Those who do, however, can prepare themselves for most magnificent views across Lake Neuchâtel to the Alps."
Gorgeous hike up and down, but your knees have to be fit enough! About 14km, took us 5h up and down including a break and stops to watch the animals and nature. The views at the top are stunning!
Rhys B.
Google
Beautiful hike and very customizable to the people you are with. The food at the different restaurants is amazing and the views are breathtaking. Even though it was very hot the day we went, the tree coverage protects you from the worst heat. Recommend to go in the morning though!
Nicole K.
Google
Beautiful view, great hikes, nice place. We even saw mountain goats - Steinböcke.
Jean-Michel “J-MP” P.
Google
It’s an amazing scenic view on the Neuchâtel region and its lake. If you come early in the morning, you will see a beautiful sunrise on Alps and if you come for a picnic at the sunset you will see awesome colours (yellow, orange and red) on Alps. During the high séance, you can have dinner there at the restaurant “le Soliat”.
Alejandro M.
Google
You can hike from the city of Noiraigue. Depending on how fit you are it will take more or less time. I needed about an hour and a half to reach the top (and the trail is steep!) but it is absolutely worth it. It is a great place to visit and I will certainly go again someday! If you are not that fit I am afraid this is not the place for you.
Stephanie A.
Google
Beautiful place with plenty of nice hikes available in the area
barb H.
Google
a massive natural amphitheater (the "Swiss Grand Canyon") with 160m cliffs, stunning 360° panoramas of Lake Neuchâtel, the Alps, and Jura, and abundant wildlife like ibex, chamois, and marmots, with hiking loops from Noiraigue offering stunning views, farm restaurants for local food, and the nearby Gorges de l'Areuse for more adventure.
Crusoe W.
Google
Great view but hard trail to hike up
How to get there?
If you take public transportation, you get off at railway station: Noiraigue. The way up: you will turn left, then right, then you follow the signs to sightsee spot: Le Soliat. That are two paths upwards: I took the right side one, it is relatively long, but not so steep. Be careful that the way up is very nature, you will need good hiking shoes!
Plan more time if you have kids with you. It took us 3 hours to up, and 2 hours downhill. The path is quite rough and tough, I warned you 😂
If you drive there, it might drive up to the restaurant Le Soliat. Please call them to verify. I would recommend this way for my next visit.