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About this place
Le Suchet is a Jura mountain in the canton of Vaud, on the territory of Rances and close to the French border. Its main summit stands at 1,588 m, with a lower secondary top at 1,554 m. The panorama takes in both the Alps and Lake Neuchâtel, which makes it a rewarding day hike in the Vaud Jura.
Where is Le Suchet?
The peak belongs to the Jura range and rises above the Orbe valley. The nearest places are Rances, Ballaigues and Vallorbe. Hikers also reach it from Baulmes along the Aiguilles de Baulmes ridge, and from the French side via Jougne.
What can you see from the top?
Even on the southern slopes above the Orbe, the climb opens onto Lake Neuchâtel and the Swiss plain. From the summit on a clear day you can follow the Alps from the Eiger to Mont Blanc and pick out neighbouring Jura heights: the Chasseron, Aiguilles de Baulmes, Mont d'Or, Dent de Vaulion and Mont Tendre. In exceptional visibility the Vosges appear too.
How do you get up Le Suchet?
A common approach goes via the Chalet du Suchet. A steep road climbs there from Rances or Ballaigues, and the summit is about a quarter of an hour on foot from the chalet. Cyclists tackling the road from Ballaigues report roughly 860 m of ascent over 9 km.
The summit is also the high point of the Sainte-Croix to Vallorbe stage of the Jura crest trail (Jura Höhenweg). The path follows the ridge to the foot of the peak, climbs to the top, then descends through Ballaigues (about 864 m) toward Vallorbe (about 759 m).
From France, a route starts at the ski car park in Entre-les-Fourgs and follows the Petit Nerveau stream valley upward.
When should you go?
Pick a cloud-free day with sharp air for the best views. The area serves skiers in winter and walkers from summer into early autumn. Check the forecast first, since the ridge is windier than the valley.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Le Suchet?
The main summit is 1,588 m above sea level; the secondary top is 1,554 m.
Is Rances close to the summit?
Yes. The peak lies within the commune of Rances, and its slopes fall toward the Orbe valley.
How long is the walk from the Chalet du Suchet?
About fifteen minutes to the top.
What is visible from the summit?
The Alps from the Eiger to Mont Blanc, Lake Neuchâtel and Jura ridges such as the Chasseron and Mont Tendre.
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