The region "Jura & Three-Lakes" is famous for its great variety of landscapes, its intact and well-protected nature, its history and rich architectural heritage which is often related to the watch-making industry.
The mountains of Neuchâtel seem just like a green paradise between the blue sky and lake. Marked by nature and tradition, the Bernese Jura offers its visitors an abundance of free spaces between valleys, mountains and meadows of flowers, the ideal place for hiking. The Chasseral, highest point of the region, is a nature reserve. From its summit at an altitude of 1607 m, you can enjoy an incredible all-around panorama across lakes and valleys.
How can one best describe the Jura & Three-Lakes district? It makes you think of nature, vegetable plantations, vineyards, modern towns, picturesque villages, the mixture of the German and French languages, but also of water. As a matter of fact, a boat trip on the lakes of Biel, Murten and Neuchâtel or the river Aare is an unforgettable experience. The great classic cruise, the Three-Lakes Tour, should not be missed in any case. Bikers also appreciate the Three-Lakes district. Two national routes run across it, and many other trails invite to enjoy the sport at all levels. The trails leading through the vegetable plantations are especially suitable for families.
Delémont, the capital of Switzerland's newest canton, formed in 1979, has a population of 12,000 and a pretty, baroque Old Town, containing numerous fountains with statues, narrow streets and secluded rear courtyards. Visit the baroque castle, which was once the summer residence of the ruling bishops of Basle. The magnificent wide open spaces of the surrounding Jura landscape are an inviting location for adventurous sports activities: cycling, horse-riding, canoeing, etc.
On the edge of town
The modern, cosy
youth hostel of Delémont is located on the outskirts of the town. The building is surrounded by a large garden, filled with plants and wild flowers. The woods and stream next to the youth hostel provide an area for adventure and play. The pretty little town of Delémont is only a 15 minutes’ walk away. Families often bring their bicycles along so that they can go on trips into the Jura countryside.
Offer “Bed & Bike in the Jura”
2 nights in dormitory incl. HB, one lunch pack with drink, touring bike for one day, tour tips, maps.
Costs:
• Adults CHF 117.-
• Children aged 6-15 CHF 102.50
• E-bike surcharge CHF 19.- from aged 16
General information:
• Minimum age: 6 years
• valid for up to four persons
Valid: 02 Apr - 18 Oct 2015
The
Le Bémont Youth Hostel is in the heart of the village of Le Bémont and surrounded by an enormous playing field. There's quite a lot to look at, even from the garden: the little red Jura train passing by and the groups of cyclists, getting their bikes ready in front of the youth hostel, before setting off on a trip around the paths and tracks of the Jura Mountains. The high plateau and fold mountains of the Jura.
High plateau, Jura folds and the “Trans Swiss Trail”
Visitors arriving on the Freiberge high plateau by train will experience a fascinating piece of Swiss geology at close quarters. The journey takes you straight through a fold in the Jura mountains. The little train winds its way to the top of the narrow Tabeillon gorge. The youth hostel is next to the tiny railway station at Le Bémont.
Le Bémont lies on the “Trans Swiss Trail”. It runs from Porrentruy via Saignelégier to Mendrisio – one of the most beautiful, long-distance hiking and cross-country skiing routes traversing Switzerland. This long-distance trail from Porrentruy to Mendrisio is one of the last great adventures in highly developed Switzerland. Diverse landscapes, cultures and sights are waiting to be discovered on 32 stages covering 488 kilometres.
It is especially suited for family holidays with small children, as well as for schools carrying out project/sports weeks in the Freiberge region.
Offer “On horseback in the Franches Montagnes”
At gait, trot or gallop: enjoy unforgettable days in the land of horses and at Le Bémont Youth Hostel, on the romantic plateau of the Jura’s Franches Montagnes.
3 nights in a multi-bedded room incl. HB, 2 x 2 hours accompanied rides plus an entrance to the public swimming pool (indoor and outdoor).
Costs:
• Adults CHF 239.-
• children aged 8-15 CHF 227.-
General information/Equipment:
• Min. number of participants: 2.
• Suitable for adults and children as of age 8 (beginners and advanced riders).
• Insurance is the participants own responsibility.
• Recommended footwear: sturdy sports shoes. Riding or cycling helmet compulsory.
Valid: 04 Apr - 31 Oct 2015
Good to know
JURA PASS: Travel through Jura free of charge! If you spend at least one night at the youth hostel, you receive a free ticket for this region for the time of your stay.