Creux du Van: how to get there, the route and tips

What is the Creux du Van?

The Creux du Van is a natural amphitheatre in the canton of Neuchâtel, often called the "Swiss Grand Canyon". It is about 1,400 metres wide with walls more than 150 metres high. It is a nature reserve, and on its ledges lives a colony of ibex (alpine wild goats) that was reintroduced in the 1960s.

It is one of the most spectacular day hikes in the Jura, and it is easy to reach by public transport.

Two ibex face to face with crossed horns, on a stone path at the Creux du Van — Ibex on the Creux du Van trail

Distance

~12 km

Elevation gain

~800 m

Duration

4–6 h

Highest point

~1,460 m

Difficulty

T2

Data for the classic circular route from Noiraigue station. They vary slightly depending on the variant you choose.

Getting to the Creux du Van

By train (the most convenient option)

The classic hike starts at Noiraigue station, at about 725 m altitude. There are hourly trains from Neuchâtel and the journey takes around 20 minutes. If you are coming from Biel/Bienne, the route goes via Neuchâtel. Always check the up-to-date timetables at SBB, and confirm the last train back before setting off.

By car

There are official car parks, and parking outside them is prohibited within the reserve (camping is not allowed either):

May to October, from the north: Couvet (Soliat), about a 5-minute walk from the edge, and Noiraigue (Ferme Robert), at the foot of the cirque.
May to October, from the south: Provence (Soliat), about 5 minutes from the edge, and Gorgier or Bevaix (Grand'Vy), about 15 minutes.
November to April: the Couvet and Provence car parks are about a 40-minute walk from the Creux. The road between Provence and Couvet is not salted and requires winter tyres or chains.

Source: Tourisme neuchâtelois, access and parking. Check conditions there before you go.

The circular route from Noiraigue, step by step

It is the most complete route and the easiest to organise by public transport. It is well signposted.

Noiraigue station. You leave along Rue des Tilleuls, cross the railway line and the River Areuse.
To Les Œillons. Gradual uphill path through the forest.≈ 50 min
Sentier des 14 Contours. Fourteen bends up to Le Soliat, with yellow markings.≈ 1 h 30
The edge of the cirque. You walk along the ridge with views into the void and, on clear days, towards the Alps. Look at the ledges and the forest: this is where ibex are most often seen. This is where it is worth spending the most time on photos and a break.
Descent to Ferme Robert. Descent via the Fontaine Froide to the farm, at about 970 m.≈ 1 h 30
Back to Noiraigue.≈ 35 min

Reference times for continuous walking. With breaks, lunch and photos, allow 4 to 6 hours in total.

Edge of the Creux du Van amphitheatre with the rock wall and forest — The edge of the amphitheatre

View of the Creux du Van from the trail, with clouds over the Jura — View from the trail

Rock walls of the Creux du Van from above — The walls of the cirque

Ibex in the forest near the Creux du Van — Ibex on the path

Safety at the edge

The edge has no railings. The outer trail, marked white-red-white, runs along the wall with no protection at all. It is not for anyone with a fear of heights, and demands care with children and dogs.

Keep your distance from the edge, especially in wind, fog or wet ground. A photo isn't worth the risk.
There is a steeper variant, the Sentier du Single, which gets slippery with wet leaves and damp rock.
At 1,400 m it can be very cold, even close to 0 °C in the cold months. Bring a warm layer even if the weather is nice down below.
At the end of October it gets dark around 6pm. Plan an early start and check the last train.
Check the forecast before setting off on MeteoSwiss.

Nature reserve rules

Dogs must be on a lead.
With the ibex, keep your distance: don't feed them, chase them or disturb them, even if they approach the trail.
No fires (except in authorised places) or camping.
Do not pick plants, flowers or mushrooms, or disturb the animals.

Based on the regulations of the Neuchâtel nature reserves. Rules can change, so check the official information before you go.

Best time to go

Autumn: the best time for many. The air is clearer, views reach as far as the Alps and there are fewer people. Ibex are often seen on the ledges below the edge.
Summer: the trail is in its best condition, but it is when there are the most visitors. Better on weekdays or early.
Winter: it can be done, but under different conditions. With snow you need hiking crampons, and paths can be dangerous.

What to bring

Hiking footwear with a good sole (mandatory).
Layered clothing and a jacket, plus a warm layer for the edge.
Water and something to eat. There is a restaurant at Le Soliat, but don't count on it without confirming it is open.
Poles (recommended in winter) and hiking crampons if there is snow.
Cap, sunscreen and a headlamp if you'll be out late.

FAQ

How long does it take to hike the Creux du Van?

The classic circuit from Noiraigue is about 12 km and takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on pace and breaks.

Can you get there by public transport?

Yes. There are trains to Noiraigue from Neuchâtel, and the walking route starts from there. Confirm the timetables, especially the last train back.

Can it be done in winter?

Yes, in the right conditions and with equipment (hiking crampons if there is snow). Paths can be dangerous, so check conditions before you go.

Do you see ibex at the Creux du Van?

Often, yes. The reserve is home to a colony of ibex (alpine wild goats) reintroduced in the 1960s, and they are seen on the ledges below the edge and sometimes on the trail itself. In autumn they tend to be easier to spot. Watch from a distance and without disturbing them.

Can you go with a dog?

Yes, but always on a lead, and with great care: the edge of the cirque has no railings.

Is it suitable for people with a fear of heights or with children?

The route itself is of moderate difficulty, but the edge is unprotected. Anyone with a fear of heights should avoid the outer trail, and with children you need to hold their hand near the edge.

Do I need previous experience?

You don't need technical experience, but you do need basic fitness: it's about 800 metres of cumulative ascent in a day.

Prefer to go with a guide, in Spanish?

I run this tour with small groups: planning, pre-trip guidance and all the information in your language, so all you have to do is enjoy it.

Creux du Van with Clas Tours

CHF 140

per person · guide included · minimum 2 people
Groups of 7 or more: CHF 110 per person · maximum 10 people

See the full tour → See departures

Any questions?

Write to me directly and I'll reply with no forms. I can also organise a date for your group.

Write on WhatsApp → FAQ

Other tours

Kandersteg with a night in a mountain hut Kandersteg guide (2 days) Augstmatthorn → Harderkulm Watches & Chocolate in the Jura About me