On the cantonal border between Neuchâtel and Vaud there is a 1200 metre wide gap which oppresses the visitor due to its sheer size and at the same time gives a feeling for the magic of nature.
When the keen hiker stands in front of the 500-metre-drop gorge, he or she not only needs to have a good sense of stability, but above all a head for heights. It is not without reason that the Creux du Van is also called the small Grand Canyon of Switzerland.
The area lies at up to 1450 metres above sea level and has been protected as a natural monument. The basin was probably formed by erosion after the Ice Age. If visitors are lucky and have a good eye, they will not fail to notice the ibexes, chamois and lynx that roam the area. The Creux du Van is impressive and spectacular not only because of the rock formations.
Location and directions
By car, you can get to the Ferme du Soliat restaurant on the edge of the cirque via Couvet or Saint-Aubin-Sauges. From there, it's a few metres' walk to the precipice. The Creux du Van is worth a detour, especially on motorbike tours or other excursions in the Jura! If you like absinthe, you're also very close to the Val-de-Travers.
