The «Chemin du Jura bernois» begins in Moutier. Where else if not here, where the Jura question was the often the subject of heated, controversial discussion. And hiking in the Jura is often the subject of discussion. Granted: the Jura lacks heady heights, but this hiking destination can be headed for early in the year and well into autumn. It offers surprisingly colourful meadows, lush green woodland, dark gorges and rugged rock basins. Picturesque little towns nestle between high scenic ridges and wide high plains. Ancient monasteries and churches lie on the path and there’s no shortage of culinary delights.
The path through the Berner Jura combines all these: at the beginning easily up to the Tour de Moron vantage tower, the work of apprentice bricklayers and stonemasons. Spicy Tête de Moine cheese is made in the Freiberge dairies, the show dairy at Bellelay Monastery gives a look behind the scenes. On Mont Crosin and Mont Soleil, one of the most important centres for renewable energy and at the end of the route, fascinating Swiss perfection: on the track of time, you hike to La Chaux-de-Fonds and the International Watch Museum.
Stages
Places
Arrival / return travel
Our recommendations for arrival by public transport.
Rail, bus, boat recommendations
SwitzerlandMobility recommends covering the following sections by rail, bus or boat to shorten the route, to negotiate height differences or simply because it’s beautiful.
Length64 km
Height differenceMoutier–La Chaux-de-Fonds: 2'300 m
La Chaux-de-Fonds–Moutier: 1'900 m
RequirementsGrade: easy (hiking trail)
Conditions: medium
SignalizationFor hiking, follow the logo indicated on the yellow signposts. Take a printout of our web map on your hike for safety's sake.