The Creux-du-Van is a rocky cirque shaped by glacial erosion, at the heart of a vast protected nature reserve. Here you will find a sweeping panorama, alpine wildlife and arctic-alpine flora that is unusual at this altitude.
Natural curiosity
Creux-du-Van
Main highlights
- A rocky cirque 1,400 m wide and 200 m high, shaped by glacial erosion
- A nature reserve protecting ibex, chamois, lynx and capercaillie on its slopes
- Two ways in : on foot from Noiraigue or by car to the Restaurant du Soliat
Overview
The Creux-du-Van is a rocky cirque located at the end of the Val-de-Travers valley, in the Neuchâtel Jura. It is 1,400 m wide and its cliffs reach 200 m in height. Its shape is the result of glacial erosion.
The site is part of a vast protected nature reserve. The area’s distinctive climate supports arctic-alpine flora, unusual at this altitude. The reserve is also home to alpine wildlife, including ibex, chamois, lynx and capercaillie.
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What to see and do
The main draw is the panorama. From the top of the cliffs, you can take in the entire rocky amphitheatre, with its 200 m walls towering over the floor of the cirque. The sheer scale of the site, 1,400 m across, is best appreciated from its rim.
The reserve offers the chance to observe alpine wildlife. Ibex and chamois roam the slopes and rocks. Lynx and capercaillie also live in the area, but are elusive.
The flora is also worth a closer look. The local climate allows arctic-alpine plants to grow here, at an altitude where you would not expect them. Hiking up from Noiraigue takes you through these habitats before you reach the cirque.
Practical information
Access : on foot from the village of Noiraigue, or by car to the Restaurant du Soliat, near the top of the cirque.
On site : the Restaurant du Soliat is close to the site.
Status : the cirque lies within a protected nature reserve, where wildlife and plants must be respected.
Visiting tips
If you hike up from Noiraigue, wear sturdy shoes and clothing suited to the mountains. Stay on the trails to protect the reserve’s flora. Binoculars are handy for spotting ibex and chamois.
Nearby
- The Asphalt Mines at the La Presta site can be visited wearing a helmet and carrying a lamp.
- The Môtiers Waterfall tumbles down a rock face near the village centre.
- The Vine and Wine Museum, at Boudry Castle, traces Neuchâtel’s winemaking tradition.
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