ViaJura, Stage 5/7

Following the stream through deep, rocky gorges, on beautiful paths along the forest's edge and across pastures on the broad ridge of the Moron, the route shows the Jura's diversity. From the tower of Moron, you can see the Alpine arc from Säntis to Mont Blanc and in the north from the Vosges to the Black Forest (temporarily closed).

From Moutier railway station, the consistently yellow-waymarked route initially leads through the town. At Chalière, it passes the Romanesque chapel, which was consecrated in 1019 in the presence of Emperor Henry II. The trail then follows La Birse for several kilometres before beginning the long ascent out of the valley.

Stretches of woodland alternate with open meadows and pastures. Via Droit de Mévilier, the route continues to Champoz, reached roughly halfway through the hike. Beyond the village, the hiking trail climbs further to the Jura heights near Moron. At around 1,330 metres, this is the highest point of the hike. Broad, open stretches characterise this scenic section, interspersed with woodland.

The descent then leads via Montagne de Saules to Sornetan. At 23 kilometres, with around 1,100 metres of elevation gain and just under seven hours of walking time, the hike requires stamina but remains on well-maintained hiking trails throughout. The Sornetan bus stop is only a few minutes’ walk from the finish.