Tour du Vallon des Vaux

Circular hike from Yvonand through the Vallon des Vaux nature reserve. The trail through the canyon with its imposing cliffs is very scenic. Other sights on the way include the tower of St-Martin, with magnificent views of the Jura, followed by the church of Chêne-Paquier.

This circular hike of around three and a half hours begins at Yvonand railway station. After just a few steps, the path passes the Catholic church and leaves the village behind. Woodland and open fields soon dominate the scenery. The mostly waymarked hiking trail climbs steadily, gaining around 360 metres in total. The route reaches its highest point at approximately 670 m before turning towards Chavannes-le-Chêne.

At Moulin du Covet, the path re-enters the forest and then continues to Chêne-Pâquier. Close to the route stands the Temple de Chêne-Pâquier, Switzerland’s oldest oval church. It was built in 1667 by the Bernese architect Abraham Dünz. The route then continues through wooded terrain once more. The Grotte à Baptiste lies directly beside the path. Towards the end, the small Flonzel accompanies the route for a short stretch before the descent leads back to Yvonand. After around 13 kilometres, the circuit closes at the railway station.