On the border between the cantons of Neuchâtel and Vaud is a spectacular horseshoe-shaped gorge with the French-sounding name Creux du Van. A scenic route leads to it from the station in Noiraigue.
Listed in the Federal Inventory of Landscapes and Natural Monuments of National Importance
Water and ice sculpted the huge rock arena, more than a kilometre in diameter and over 160 metres high, over millions of years. In the middle of the gorge is the “Fontaine Froide” spring, whose water has a constant temperature of 4°C all year round. Therefore, the area has been protected since 1972 and is listed in the Federal Inventory of Landscapes and Natural Monuments of National Importance.
A paradise for wildlife – Creux du Van
The arctic-alpine flora here is a paradise for chamois, marmots, ptarmigan, lynx, birds of prey and other wildlife. Therefore, if you are even more interested in wildlife, I recommend a trip to the Nature Reserve and Wildlife Park Goldau.
The chamois are very curious and come very close to people. However, you should be wary of the ibex, which closely observes its surroundings, flexes its muscles and shows off its impressive antlers.
You may get dizzy looking down
The first stage of the trail up to the gorge requires endurance and patience. The road leads up through the forest. So there are few views, but only at the beginning. At the top, a sensational panorama and a spectacular gorge await you. I warn, however, that you may get dizzy looking down.