Jura Crest Trail, Stage 9/16

Enjoy the fantastic panoramic view from the high mountain chain with the Tête de Ran and Mont Racine peaks. The slabs of the rocky spur provide a breathtaking view down to Lac de Neuchâtel, before making the steep descent to Noiraigue.

The crossing of the Jura begins at the Vue-des-Alpes bus stop on the 1'283-metre pass. Its name alludes to the panorama of the Alps. The yellow-waymarked hiking trail leads across the open Jura heights to the Tête de Ran and onwards to Mont Racine. At 1'439 metres, its summit is the highest point of the hike, reached after around a third of the route.

The trail initially remains on the broad heights before woodland increasingly comes to dominate the landscape. The route continues in a steady succession of ascents and descents along the elongated ridge. The rocky viewpoint of Les Tablettes offers another sweeping view before the descent sets the pace.

The trail now loses considerable altitude through the forest and eventually reaches Noiraigue. After 22 kilometres and a good six and a half hours, the hike ends just a few steps from the railway station. In total, there are around 860 metres of ascent and 1'400 metres of descent: a hike that demands good fitness but is technically straightforward, following waymarked hiking trails throughout.