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Val-de-Travers
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valley
Val-de-Travers is an easy on the eye transverse valley in the Neuchâtel Jura, carved out by the Areuse River. The region gained worldwide fame as the birthplace of absinthe, the production of which began here in the 18th century and is legally practiced again today after a long prohibition. Another significant attraction are the La Presta asphalt mines, which were operational from 1711 to 1986 and whose tunnels can now be visited. The valley's natural beauty is particularly spectacular in the Areuse Gorges, where hiking trails lead over stone bridges and through narrow rock crevices. Geologically, the valley is closely linked to the Creux du Van cirque, which towers over the forested slopes. Val-de-Travers was also a historical center for watchmaking and has maintained its industrial charm in combination with pristine nature.
- Location: Switzerland
- Top sights: Musée Rousseau de Môtiers · A Côté · Le Manège
- Nearby: Creux du Van (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 0 | 0 | 4 | 8 | 12 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 4 | 1 |
| Rain mm | 102 | 81 | 97 | 85 | 122 | 109 | 104 | 109 | 85 | 106 | 102 | 116 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The valley is easily accessible by train from Neuchâtel, with stops in Noiraigue and Môtiers. By car, the route leads through scenic roads into the Jura mountains for all visitors to enjoy.
Best season
Hikes to Creux du Van are particularly rewarding from spring to late autumn. In winter it can get very cold in the valley, which however features a special appeal for winter hiking experiences.
Terrain & paths
The valley is famous for its spectacular limestone formations such as the Creux du Van rock circus. The paths often lead through dense forests, along rivers, or up to the wide Jura heights.
What to bring
Good footwear is essential for the partly steep climbs to the rock walls. Also think of a windbreaker, as it can often be drafty and significantly cooler on the ridges of the Jura mountains.
Parking
Parking is available at the train stations of Noiraigue and Môtiers as well as at restaurants near Creux du Van. On weekends, these parking spaces can fill up very quickly in good weather.
Safety
At the cliffs of Creux du Van there are often no railings; therefore, keep a sufficient distance from the abyss. Caution is also advised near gorges and caves in the limestone rock formations.
Time needed
For a hike to Creux du Van from Noiraigue, you should plan about 4 to 5 hours. A whole day is recommended if you also want to visit the asphalt mines or an absinthe distillery in the valley.
Geography
Facts
- Birthplace of absinthe in the 18th century
- La Presta asphalt mines (1711–1986)
- The Areuse River flows through it
- Nestled in the Neuchâtel Jura
- Provides access to the Creux du Van
- Historical center of the watch industry
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Val-de-Travers (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the connection between Val-de-Travers and absinthe?
The valley is considered the birthplace of absinthe, which was invented here in the 18th century.
What is Creux du Van?
A huge natural rock amphitheater on the border with the canton of Vaud, with 160-meter-high walls.
Can you visit the asphalt mines?
Yes, in Travers there are guided tours through the underground galleries of the former mines.
Which hike is recommended?
The trail through the Areuse Gorge has spectacular bridges and waterfalls.
When is the best time to visit?
From May to October for hiking, and in winter for cross-country skiing in the Jura mountains.
Val-de-Travers: where is it located?
Val-de-Travers is located in Switzerland.
Val-de-Travers: what is there to see?
Highlights include Musée Rousseau de Môtiers, A Côté, Le Manège.
Val-de-Travers: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Val-de-Travers: why is it worth visiting?
Val-de-Travers is an easy on the eye transverse valley in the Neuchâtel Jura, carved out by the Areuse River.
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