Map
Elevation Profile
Useful Links
Short Description
The “Sentier du Creux du Van” route leads onto and around the natural rock amphitheater Creux du Van in Neuchatel, Switzerland.
Formed by erosion, this spectacle of nature offers a great view both of itself, and from its top/ridge.
The circular route leads to the top through a forested, relatively steep ascent, follows the semicircle ridge, then descends through alp farms and forests roads.
Impressions
Since this is a relatively popular tourist attraction, we figured the lockdown and travel restrictions made for a great opportunity to see the Creux du Van a bit less populated than usually. So as soon as the site was reopened to the public, we went and were proven right.
The semicircle of sheer rock walls is awesome to behold in person, and we enjoyed the ascent as well as the views from the top.
We also met a number of capricorns along the way, one of which seemed not just used to tourists, but to downright enjoy posing for pictures. Of course we can’t say for sure if these animals felt more comfortable because there were fewer hikers around than usual, or if such close encounters are usual on this route.
The descent through forest roads and grazing lands made for a relaxing end to a great hike with fantastic views. We enjoyed ourselves thoroughly.
Would you like to share your own experiences with this hike? Do you have any questions? Something to add? Feel free to leave a comment below 🙂
Route Report / Gallery
Full size images without watermarks are available for licensing to interested parties. Check romans.pictures for a selection of my favorites, or contact me for details.
View during the ascent. 
View during the ascent. 
View during the ascent. 
View along the ridge. 
View along the ridge. 
View along the ridge. The Rock Amphitheater in question. 
View from the ridge. 
View along the ridge. 
“Something something danger of death something punishment §.” 
View along the ridge. 
View along the ridge. 
Lunch spot 🙂 
Lunch spot 🙂 
Interesting tree. 
More trees. 
View along the ridge. 
Jenny enjoying said view. 
Female capricorn 🙂 
Female capricorn 🙂 
Female capricorn 🙂 
And there’s the male. We kept our distance since we didn’t want to be acquainted with those horns. 
He seems rather chill though. He’s just modeling for pictures 🙂 In front of the gate we have to take. 
Slightly different animals, just as relaxed though. 
Much less chill animals, these. But no less cute 🙂 
View during the descent. 
View during the descent. 
View during the descent. 
Such flattering proportions ^^ 
Parking space in view, hike almost over.
NEWSLETTER
Don’t miss a hike 🙂
Basic Data
| Date of Hike: | 2020-05-29 |
| Participants: | Roman, Jenny |
| Technical Difficulty: | T2: Mountain Trail (Partially) |
Stats
| Km | 14 |
| Net Hours (Est.) | 4.5 |
| Net Hours (Act.) | 4 |
| Ascent (m) | 778 |
| Descent (m) | 778 |
| Max. Alt. (m) | 1458 |
| Loop? | Yes |
| Cable Car? | No |