Best attractions and places to see around Sainte-Croix, located in the Jura-Nord Vaudois region of Switzerland, offer a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Situated on a protected sunny terrace at 1100m, the area is known for its expansive Jura landscape. The town also has a historical connection to music box manufacturing. This region provides diverse opportunities for exploration.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
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Nice Sunday morning Gravel ride. Arrived at 8 am in Miribel park, not a soul 🐈⬛ but a few hares and signs waking up quietly near the many beaches. I'm surprised by the quality of the singles and trails which are super well maintained. Would gladly do it again.
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Superb climb to pass in front of the Madonna...especially when there are few cars :)
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Nice little town, very calm and relaxing.
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After the Blessed Virgin Mary, "Sainte MARIE MADELEINE" is the woman most frequently mentioned in the writings of the New Testament. Originally called "Mary of Magdala", after her place of origin on the Sea of Galilee, the name "Mary Magdalene" has evolved over time. According to the biblical accounts, she is one of the women and men who followed Jesus of Nazareth. According to the testimony of the evangelists, Mary Magdalene is also one of the three women who, after the crucifixion and burial of Jesus Christ, wanted to anoint the body on Easter morning after the Sabbath rest, and the very first person who ever met the Risen Christ. In theology, she is therefore also known as the "Apostle of the Apostles". The feast day of Sainte Marie-Madeleine in the calendar of saints is July 22nd.
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Very beautiful medieval city. The village of my childhood. Absolutely taste the pancakes! 😉🍰
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This expansive park is a protected natural area offering a multitude of outdoor activities, including mountain biking, hiking and water sports. Created in the 1970s, the park was developed to preserve the ecosystem while providing a place of leisure for residents of the region. It is also an important site for biodiversity, sheltering many animal and plant species.
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Beautiful church with its little bus stop for a little snack break
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Perfect climb for winter outings when it's very cold! The return via Rillieux is less pleasant but be careful of the wind if you go through Ain! For more advice, don't hesitate to follow us on all networks @chouchou_team
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Sainte-Croix is renowned for its rich industrial past, particularly its connection to music box manufacturing. You can explore this heritage at the Musée de la mécanique d'art et du patrimoine de Sainte-Croix (MuMAPS), which showcases world-renowned music boxes and nickelodeons. Another cultural highlight is the Musée du St-Laurent, offering insights into local history and traditional crafts. Don't miss the vibrant Artisan Market for handmade crafts and local produce.
While Sainte-Croix itself is rich in industrial history, a short distance away, you can visit the Vieille ville d'Yverdon-les-Bains. This old town offers a historical point of interest with a beautiful pedestrian zone and a preserved waterfront promenade, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
The Sainte-Croix region is nestled within the expansive Jura landscape, offering stunning natural beauty. You can enjoy magnificent panoramic views from the Sommet du Chasseron, extending to the Savoy, Valais, and Bernese Alps. The Gorges de la Poëta Raisse also provide a scenic area for hiking and exploration. The town is situated on a protected sunny terrace at 1100m, making it ideal for enjoying the Jura mountains.
Yes, Sainte-Croix offers several family-friendly options. The Sentier des Frères Chappuis is a nature trail designed for families, featuring educational signs about local flora and fauna. The Musée du St-Laurent also provides interactive displays suitable for families interested in cultural activities.
The Jura landscape around Sainte-Croix is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. In summer, it's popular for rambling and cycling. In winter, it transforms into a destination for cross-country skiing. You can find various routes for different sports, such as MTB trails, hiking trails, and gravel biking routes, all accessible from the region.
Sainte-Croix offers numerous hiking opportunities within the Jura mountains. A notable family-friendly option is the Sentier des Frères Chappuis. For more extensive hikes, consider exploring the trails leading to the Sommet du Chasseron for panoramic views or the scenic Gorges de la Poëta Raisse. You can find detailed hiking routes and guides for the area on the Hiking around Sainte-Croix page.
Sainte-Croix is a year-round destination for outdoor activities. Summer is ideal for rambling and cycling, while winter is perfect for cross-country skiing, thanks to its location on a protected sunny terrace at 1100m amidst the Jura landscape.
Yes, the Artisan Market in Sainte-Croix is a vibrant cultural highlight. It's held regularly and offers a chance to discover handmade crafts, local produce, and Swiss delicacies, providing an authentic regional experience and opportunities to find unique souvenirs.
From the Sommet du Chasseron, which stands at 1,607 meters, you can enjoy magnificent panoramic views. These vistas extend across the Savoy, Valais, and Bernese Alps, and on clear days, you can even see as far as Säntis in the Appenzell Prealps.
Sainte-Croix holds a significant historical connection to music box manufacturing. From 1811 until the late 19th century, it was a global center for producing intricate mechanical musical instruments. The Musée de la mécanique d'art et du patrimoine de Sainte-Croix (MuMAPS), also known as the CIMA Music Box and Nickelodeon Museum, preserves and showcases this unique heritage.
Absolutely. The Jura landscape around Sainte-Croix is very popular for cycling. You can find various routes, including MTB trails and gravel biking routes, suitable for different skill levels. The generally flat terrain in some areas makes it accessible for many riders.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The expansive Jura landscape offers breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities, while the museums provide deep dives into the region's unique history, especially its music box legacy. The charm of the local markets and historical towns also leaves a lasting impression.


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