Attractions and Places To See around Les Planchettes - Top 20

The region boasts several stunning natural features. The magnificent Saut du Doubs Waterfall, a 27-meter high cascade on the French-Swiss border, is a major national site often compared to Canadian canyons. For panoramic vistas, visit the Vue des Alpes Pass, offering fantastic views of the Alps from 1,283 meters altitude. The Doubs River itself, forming part of the border, provides scenic landscapes, especially around Lake Moron.

Yes, for those seeking adventure, The Ladders of Death (Échelles de la Mort) offers a unique and challenging experience. This trail features metal ladders and wooden platforms along the Ronde river, providing a thrilling route through the Doubs gorges. Similarly, the Combe de Biaufond also includes sections with ladders and platforms along the Ronde river, though it's not recommended for young children or dogs due to its difficulty.

In Les Planchettes, you can visit the historic Temple des Planchettes, a classified monument dating back to 1702, known for its magnificent wooden ceiling and pine pulpit. The village itself has a rich history, recognized as a commune in 1812. Nearby, in La Chaux-de-Fonds, approximately 4.6 km away, is the International Museum of Watches, showcasing the region's renowned watchmaking heritage.

The Jura Mountains surrounding Les Planchettes offer numerous opportunities for outdoor activities. For cycling enthusiasts, there are various routes available, including challenging gravel biking trails like the 'View of the Doubs – Le Gros-Crêt loop' and scenic road cycling routes such as the 'Chasseral Climb Loop'. You can find more details on these and other cycling routes in the Cycling around Les Planchettes guide, the Gravel biking around Les Planchettes guide, and the Road Cycling Routes around Les Planchettes guide.

Yes, the region offers options for families. The Vue des Alpes Pass is considered family-friendly, featuring a restaurant and a summer toboggan run. Additionally, the Zoo du Bois du Petit-Chateau in La Chaux-de-Fonds, about 4 km from Les Planchettes, provides an opportunity to observe various animals, making it a great outing for families.

Visitors particularly appreciate the dramatic natural landscapes and the sense of adventure. The Saut du Doubs Waterfall is praised for its magnificent, canyon-like scenery, especially enjoyable during hot summer days due to the shady gorge. The Vue des Alpes Pass is loved for its fantastic mountain panorama, while challenging routes like The Ladders of Death offer a breathtaking and playful experience for those seeking thrills.

The region is beautiful year-round, but for hiking and cycling, the warmer months from spring to autumn are ideal. The shady gorge along the Doubs is particularly pleasant for walks during hot summer days. However, it's important to note that challenging trails like Combe de Biaufond should be avoided in case of rain or thunderstorms due to potential river level increases.

While some trails are challenging, there are easier options. The Col de la Vue des Alpes offers an easy hike with a very rewarding view of the alpine panorama. Many trails along the Doubs River, particularly around Lake Moron, also provide diverse landscapes suitable for more relaxed walks, though specific difficulty levels can vary.

Yes, amenities are available near some key attractions. At the Vue des Alpes Pass, you'll find a hotel and a restaurant, making it a convenient stop for refreshments or an overnight stay. The village of Les Planchettes itself, and nearby towns like La Chaux-de-Fonds, also offer various dining and accommodation options.

While specific public transport details for each attraction are not provided, Les Planchettes is a municipality in the canton of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, and the region generally has public transport infrastructure. For attractions like the Vue des Alpes Pass, its accessibility suggests public transport options might be available, though checking local schedules is recommended.

Beyond the well-known Saut du Doubs Waterfall, the Combe de Biaufond is a beautiful wild gorge with a path featuring ladders and wooden platforms along the Ronde river, offering a more secluded and adventurous experience. It's a less frequented spot that provides stunning natural beauty and a sense of discovery.