The Saut du Day, near Vallorbe, is a 13-metre waterfall formed by the Orbe in a limestone canyon in the Vaud Jura. From the trails, you can take in the falls, an 1886 railway bridge and a hydroelectric site founded in 1896.
Waterfalls & cascades
Saut du Day
Main highlights
- A 13-metre waterfall on the Orbe, whose flow varies markedly with the seasons
- A metal railway bridge from 1886, spanning the gorge at a height of almost 30 m
- Hydroelectric heritage with an 1896 plant, a dam and a power station still in operation
Overview
The Saut du Day lies about 3 km south-east of Vallorbe, in the canton of Vaud. Here the Orbe drops 13 metres, forming a waterfall in a narrow canyon carved into the limestone of a typical Jura karst landscape.
From the late 19th century, the power of the falls was harnessed to generate electricity. A first power station was built in 1896, and a station rebuilt in 1950 continues production today. The site, including the historic power station, is listed in the Swiss inventory of industrial heritage.
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What to see and do
The waterfall changes throughout the year. In spring, snowmelt produces a powerful torrent. In summer, the gentler flow reveals the rock formations. In autumn, the foliage turns colour, and during cold spells ice formations may appear. Several viewpoints, including the road bridge, let you see it from different angles.
The hydroelectric complex includes the former 1896 plant, the dam that regulates the Orbe, the modern power station and the penstocks. The interior is generally closed to the public, but the whole complex can be seen from outside. Above, the railway bridge on the Vallorbe-Lausanne line offers the chance to photograph a train crossing over the waterfall.
Waymarked trails start from the site : the Orbe gorges trail, the path linking Vallorbe to Les Clées, and loops of varying lengths for all levels.
Practical information
Getting there : by car from Vallorbe, heading towards Les Clées and Ballaigues, with a small car park nearby. By train, the “Le Day” stop is about 500 m away. On foot, around 40 minutes from Vallorbe along the Orbe. Waymarked cycle routes are also available.
Visit duration : 1 to 2 hours for the site and its surroundings.
On site : benches and rest areas, but no food outlets or public toilets.
Suitable for : walkers of all levels; take care with children.
Visitor tips
Wear suitable footwear, as the trails can be slippery after rain. Take care near the riverbanks and steep areas, especially with children. Bring a picnic or plan to eat in Vallorbe.
Spring brings the strongest flow, autumn the best colours. The site also makes a good stop on a hike along the Orbe gorges between Vallorbe and Orbe.
Nearby attractions
- Fort de Pré-Giroud, built between 1937 and 1941, can be visited on a guided tour.
- The Iron and Railway Museum is housed in the Grandes Forges of Vallorbe, whose origins date back to 1495.
- The Vallorbe Caves form an underground network of stalactites and stalagmites shaped by the Orbe.
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