Alpine Panorama Trail, Stage 21/29

Leisure walkers, culture fans and nature lovers are sure to be in their element on this route from Jaun to Gruyères. The stretch that initially follows the Jaunbach stream and then the river Saane offers a fine demonstration of how water has shaped the landscape. Churches, chapels and the unique heritage of La Gruyère give this route its distinctive character.

The roughly six-hour hike begins at the Jaun, Dorf bus stop, at just over 1,000 metres and also the highest point on the route. The trail leaves the village and crosses open meadows to Im Fang. Woodland and pastures alternate, with gentle intervening climbs bringing the total ascent to around 500 metres.

Around halfway along, the route reaches Charmey. After passing the church of Saint-Laurent, it soon arrives at Lac de Montsalvens, a reservoir on the Jogne. The trail follows its shore before continuing downhill through the rural surroundings of Châtel-sur-Montsalvens.

Near Broc, the pilgrimage chapel of Notre-Dame des Marches stands directly on the route. It is a cultural heritage site of national significance. The final section crosses open countryside to Gruyères. After passing the church of Saint-Théodule and Château Saint-Germain, the trail runs through the village before finally descending to Gruyères railway station. The hike ends there after around 22 kilometres.