The Tine de Conflens is a limestone gorge carved by the Venoge, near Ferreyres, between La Sarraz and L’Isle. Trails lead you to a 13 m waterfall at the foot of rock walls that form a natural amphitheatre.
Waterfalls & cascades
Tine de Conflens and Venoge Waterfall
Main highlights
- A 13 m waterfall where the Venoge plunges to the bottom of a gorge carved into limestone
- A network of trails with a loop of about 5 km between the plateau and the gorge floor
- A river celebrated in song by Gilles, home to white-throated dippers, ferns and orchids
Overview
The Tine de Conflens is a deep gorge formed by the erosion of the Venoge on the Jura limestone plateau. At the bottom of this canyon, the river drops 13 m before continuing its course towards Lake Geneva. The site marks the start of the Venoge’s lower course.
The word “Tine”, found in several place names in French-speaking Switzerland, refers to a natural basin or a rocky gorge carved by water. “Conflens” refers to the nearby confluence of the Venoge and the Veyron. The Venoge is the river celebrated by the poet and songwriter Jean Villard Gilles.
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Things to see and do
The waterfall changes with the flow : powerful in spring when the snow melts, more subdued in summer. The walls surrounding it rise several dozen metres. Several viewpoints let you see it from different angles, which appeals to photographers.
A network of well-maintained trails crisscrosses the area. The main path is suitable for most walkers. Secondary trails lead down closer to the riverbed. A loop of about 5 km links the upper plateau with the gorge floor.
The gorge’s microclimate encourages ferns and mosses on the damp walls, and a few wild orchids in spring on the sunny slopes. You can spot the white-throated dipper and, with luck, white-clawed crayfish.
Practical information
Getting there : from La Sarraz, follow signs for Ferreyres and then L’Isle. A small unofficial car park is located near the hamlet of La Tine, about a 10-minute walk from the waterfall. By public transport, take the train to La Sarraz, then a bus to Ferreyres, followed by a signposted walk of about 3 km.
Suitable for : the main path is suitable for most walkers.
On site : no food or drink facilities, so bring water and snacks.
Visitor tips
Wear shoes with good grip : some sections are damp and slippery, especially after rain or in freezing weather. Bring a warm layer, as the gorge is cooler than the surrounding area. Spring offers the strongest flow.
Swimming at the foot of the waterfall is not recommended. Keep an eye on children near drop-offs and riverbanks, stay on marked trails and carry a map, as mobile coverage is limited.
Nearby
- La Sarraz Castle, part medieval fortress and part stately residence, houses the Horse Museum.
- Romainmôtier Abbey Church traces fifteen centuries of monastic history in well-preserved architecture.
- The Nozon Gorges feature limestone veins sculpted by the torrent and clear pools.
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