The canton of Neuchâtel is home to five of Switzerland’s 56 UNESCO sites related to prehistoric pile dwellings around the Alps. This is a good introduction to a region whose history spans several periods: at Laténium, the story extends from prehistory to the modern era, while watchmaking has shaped an urban landscape that remains visible in Le Locle and La Chaux-de-Fonds. The region also offers striking landscapes and trails. On your trip, cultural history and experiences in nature can go hand in hand without requiring a set itinerary.

Archaeology and watchmaking

Laténium’s collections present more than 50,000 years of history. The archaeological park complements this sweep through time with an immediate look at earlier forms of settlement. Here, you can explore the past in two different ways: through the collection’s broad time span and through a vivid look at former living environments.

In Le Locle and La Chaux-de-Fonds, urban planning is closely linked to the development of watchmaking. The UNESCO-recognised layout features parallel city blocks, with homes and workshops interspersed. The knowledge and skills of watchmaking and mechanical art were added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2020. In Switzerland, these traditions are concentrated along the Jura Arc, including the canton of Neuchâtel.

The Musée international d'horlogerie in La Chaux-de-Fonds displays 4,000 objects, including sundials and atomic clocks. The range between these instruments brings the breadth of the collection to life. Together with the urban planning, the museum offers a chance to discover watchmaking both as a craft and a body of knowledge, and in its connection to city life.

Absinthe and local history

In Môtiers, the Maison de l'Absinthe explores absinthe’s botanical origins, its tasting rituals, the period when it was illegal, and its role in local life. The subject brings together knowledge of nature and a turbulent history. A tasting or a visit to the bar can complement your visit; opening arrangements may vary.

Cliffs, gorges and trails

Creux du Van is a rocky cirque more than a kilometre across, formed by water and ice erosion. Its vertical cliffs are more than 160 metres high; the 360-degree panorama stretches across the lakes of the Swiss Plateau, the Alps, the Jura valleys and France. The canton of Neuchâtel recognises Creux du Van for its exceptional landscape, geological and ecological value. Its varied flora and fauna include ibex, chamois, lynx and marmots; sightings of these animals are not guaranteed.

Hiking trails to Creux du Van start from the railway stations in Noiraigue, Travers, Champ-du-Moulin, Bevaix and Saint-Aubin. Trail conditions may vary by season. The route covers 14 kilometres and includes 14 hairpin bends; some ascents and descents require stamina. These details can help you assess the route options and effort involved in advance.

Another specific hiking option is the Gorges de l'Areuse: the 12-kilometre trail runs from Noiraigue to Boudry and takes about 3 hours and 7 minutes. Along the way, stone bridges, footbridges, stairs, narrow rocky passages and impressive cliffs shape the route. From Neuchâtel, you can reach the trail by train to Noiraigue or Champ-du-Moulin; from Boudry, you can take the tram back. Check the current timetable when planning your trip.

Lake Neuchâtel

Lake Neuchâtel is the largest lake located entirely within Switzerland. In the Three Lakes Region, it is connected to Lake Biel and Lake Murten by the Zihl and Broye canals. Bays, reed beds and trails shape the shoreline along the eastern part of Lake Neuchâtel. Seasonal stand-up paddleboarding is also possible on the lake. Alongside historical discoveries, the area therefore offers shore walks and a seasonal water activity as options in their own right.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Boudry, Neuchâtel, Val-De-Ruz, Le Locle, La Chaux-De-Fonds, Val-De-Travers, Obwalden, Zurich.

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