On hot days, hikes to the water, where you can cool off, or between rocks, where the mountains provide welcome shade and mountain streams babble in gorges, are best. I set out on just such an excursion one summer day in the Jura Mountains. But I tell you – I sweated more than if I had been lying on a blanket by the pool. The pleasant shade of the forest and a babbling stream awaited me, but so did a steep climb with an elevation gain of about 500 meters. But what wouldn’t I do for beautiful views and a bit of adventure in a forgotten corner of the Jura, right?
Twannbach Gorge, Taubenloch Gorge, Devil’s Gorge… those of you who have already spent some time in the Jura will certainly be familiar with these gorges. But until recently, even I knew nothing about the existence of the Gore Virat Gorge.
Just how hidden it is from tourists is evident from the fact that on the Sunday afternoon when I went on my hike, I only met a few fellow hikers, whom I could count on the fingers of one hand. And that was in weather that was perfect for excursions!
At moments like these, you realize that the Jura Mountains still hide places that feel like little secret gems.
How to get there
By train: You can start this loop trail either in the village of Crémines or in neighboring Corcelles, both of which have small train stations.
By car: Since a train closure occurred during my trip (although trains were replaced by buses, of course), I opted to drive. Both villages are about an hour away from Bern and Basel, and an hour and a half from Zurich. I parked in Crémines behind the local school (free of charge).
Route
I left Crémines and followed the yellow trail towards Corcelles. At the local administrative building, I turned left and took a dirt road towards the forest.
Then I entered the shade of the forest, but instead of welcome coolness, there was an uphill climb and sweating. Wooden and natural steps made the steep ascent a little easier. About halfway through the gorge, you will find a wooden bridge and a beautiful waterfall cascading down the rock.
The path continues to climb along narrow zigzagging trails, accompanied by the gurgling of a stream so crystal clear that you wouldn’t be afraid to drink from it (I at least dipped my scarf in it to refresh myself).
If sweat isn’t dripping into your eyes, you’re sure to notice the amazing landscape—this is how I imagine Hobbiton.
Viewpoint
The viewpoint is definitely worth a longer stop. Not only are the views from here wonderful, but there are also several wooden tables and a large barbecue place.
Then the path finally descends, and in addition to the views that peek out here and there between the trees, you can learn something about the local fauna and flora.
The path descends in a zigzag pattern, and when you reach the spot with the viewing bench, be sure to turn right. It is a very inconspicuous turn. The route then continues across a pasture – if there are cows present, be cautious and avoid teasing or trying to pet them. You will then come to a wide dirt road that leads to Crémines.
Summary
- The route is 7.6 km long and is not suitable for strollers.
- If you arrive in Crémines by train, turn right at the signpost before the village. I shortened the route a little because, as I mentioned, I parked in the center of the village.
