The Trans Jurassienne: cycling holiday in the Swiss Jura

Forested pastures as far as the eye can see, unforgettable views of the Alps, charming villages, locals attached to their land: these are just some of the ingredients in the Jura & Three Lakes region recipe. The Trans Jurassienne is an electric bike tour on which you can discover the sights emblematic of the Jura & Three Lakes region, such as the Doubs Regional Nature Park, the horses of the Franches Montagnes, the Creux du Van nature reserve, the long watchmaking tradition of the Jura Arc or absinthe in Val-de-Travers, surrounded by much myth. Freedom, escape, disconnection... but also a sporting challenge and beautiful encounters are part of the programme!

This trip offers you a comfortable cycling trip: the organisation and the reservations are entirely taken care of by the agency out & ABOUT - Switzerland Trekking, so you don't have to worry about anything! Moreover, you will travel light, simply carrying your picnic, because your luggage will be transported for you along each stage.
 

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in St Ursanne 

The holiday starts in St Ursanne, a medieval village on the banks of the River Doubs in the heart of the Swiss Jura. Your guide, a connoisseur of the Jura & Three Lakes region, will welcome you at the railway station in St Ursanne and offer you a short tour of the town.
Evening meal and first night at the Peanut Medieval Lodge, completely renovated in 2022.

Day 2: St Ursanne - La Chaux-de-Fonds

After a tasty breakfast, it’s time to hop on your electric bike and head for the Franches Montagnes. This high plateau comprises large areas dotted with fir trees, where Franches Montagnes horses live in semi-liberty. Your guide will take you to admire the small natural lake Etang de la Gruère, a timeless and peaceful haven.
The day ends in La Chaux-de-Fonds, a town situated at an altitude of 1000m, famous for its grid layout, a legacy of the watchmaking industry that shaped the history of the region.
Evening meal and second night at the Hotel Chez Gilles

Time cycling, without breaks: 4-5 hrs
Distance: 47km
Climb/descent: 1270m / 720m 

Day 3: La Chaux-de-Fonds - Couvet

Perhaps you are curious about the special history of La Chaux-de-Fonds and the watches that are the pride of the region's inhabitants? Then visit the International Watchmaking Museum (MIH) to learn more about the art of time!
After the morning visit to the museum, the route continues to the Val-de-Travers. Your guide will ask if you want to cross the Ponts-de-Martel valley. With your hair blowing in the wind, breathe in the fresh air of nature in this valley, which gives the feeling of infinite space!
On arrival in the Val-de-Travers, enjoy tasting the famous local aperitif, absinthe.
Evening meal and third night at the Hôtel de l’Aigle

Time cycling, without breaks: 3-4 hrs
Distance: 55km
Climb/descent: 800m / 1310m

Day 4: Couvet - Neuchâtel

From Couvet, your guide takes you to the top of the extraordinary Creux du Van, a rocky cirque offering a spectacular view. Stopping for a photo and a moment of contemplation is a must. The route then descends along the Areuse river and its refreshing gorges, before continuing along the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, the largest lake located entirely in Switzerland. Here you have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip if you fancy it. The route continues to your final destination, the beautiful thousand-year-old town of Neuchâtel, where a visit to the historic centre is well worthwhile. The tour ends at around 4pm at the Neuchâtel train station.

Time cycling, without breaks: 4 hrs
Distance: 53km
Climb/descent: 960m / 1230m
 

Worth knowing

Level: easy

The Trans Jurassienne takes you along asphalt and gravel roads without any particular difficulties. In order to preserve the local fauna and flora, the route follows the official paths marked by SwitzerlandMobility. There is little difference in altitude. No previous cycling experience is required.

Physical condition: easy, but active.

This tour involves gentle physical effort. However, it is recommended that you exercise regularly beforehand to prepare for the three days of cycling. Each stage involves about four hours in the saddle, not including breaks.

Group size

6 to 12 persons
 

All-female option

There are two different options on the Trans Jurassienne cycling tour:

• Women-only option, aged 18 and above. This is part of Switzerland Tourism's promotional campaign to encourage women to take on sporting challenges in complete freedom and safety.
• An option open to all those aged 18 and above.

 

Organiser

This trip is organised by the out & ABOUT - Switzerland Trekking travel agency, which is specialised in organising sporting holidays and trekking in Switzerland.
 

Material and equipment required

• Electric bike incl. charger and helmet (NB Electric bikes can be hired separately; please indicate when booking)
• Backpack of about 20 litres with rain protection
• Waterproof, windproof jacket
• Light jacket and/or fleece
• Cycling trousers
• Light, waterproof trouser cover (e.g. Gore-Tex)
• T-shirts
• Sports underwear
• Cap or hat
• Cycling gloves
• Sports socks and spare socks
• Trainers or trekking shoes (waterproof)
• Clothing and shoes for the evening (accommodation and village life)
• Personal toiletries, earplugs if required
• Snacks (e.g. cereal bars, dried fruit)
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen and lip cream (SPF 30 or higher)
• Camera and binoculars (optional)
• Half-fare card (if available)
• Water bottle
• Small first-aid kit for personal needs