Parc du Doubs

Parc du Doubs is a regional nature park in the Swiss Jura, and the municipality of Le Noirmont is one of its members. The park has existed since 2013, covers roughly 312 km² and spans the cantons of Jura, Neuchâtel and Bern. The federal authorities recognise it as a regional nature park of national importance, tasked with preserving the landscape and supporting sustainable development.

Where is Parc du Doubs?

The park stretches more than 40 kilometres along the River Doubs. Its administrative office is in Saignelégier. Member municipalities include Le Noirmont, Saignelégier, Les Bois, Les Breuleux, Muriaux, Montfaucon, Soubey and Clos du Doubs, along with the watchmaking cities of La Chaux-de-Fonds and Le Locle. Sources give slightly different municipality counts (15 to 16), reflecting changes in membership over time.

What is the landscape like?

The high Franches-Montagnes plateau sits at about 1,000 m above sea level and is covered in pastures and forest. To the north the land drops steeply towards the Doubs valley. The river carves deep gorges and forms the border with France over long stretches. In the north the park reaches well into French territory, giving it a cross-border character.

What can you do around Le Noirmont?

Le Noirmont is a good starting point for hikes. Popular loops descend from the plateau along paths towards the Doubs, where the contrast between the gentle high plain and the steep slope is most striking. The region also suits quiet walks across pastureland, cycling and horse-riding trips.

What shapes the region's identity?

Horse breeding has marked the area for centuries, and the region is also known for cattle farming. Watchmaking, strongly tied to La Chaux-de-Fonds and Le Locle, is part of the local identity too. The park therefore combines rural traditions with an industrial heritage.

Frequently asked questions

Is Parc du Doubs in Switzerland? Yes. It is a Swiss regional nature park, although its northern part extends into France.

Since when has the park existed? Since 2013.

How big is it? About 312 km², running more than 40 km along the river.

Where is the park administration? In Saignelégier.

Is Le Noirmont part of the park? Yes, it is a member municipality and a convenient base for walks on the plateau and down to the Doubs.

When is the best time to visit? Hiking is most pleasant in the warmer months, when pastures and forests are green and the descent to the Doubs is easy. Check current information on the park's website before travelling.

Parc du Doubs suits travellers looking for a quiet, uncommercial side of Switzerland: pastures, horses, river gorges and small towns rather than high alpine peaks. It works well for a few days of hiking, with Le Noirmont as a practical base.