Vineyard walk in Côtes de l'Orbe - Foot of the Jura

Christelle Pétremand

Route
Photo

Christelle Pétremand

Route
Photo

Description - Vineyard walk in Côtes de l'Orbe - Foot of the Jura

Forming a loop starting from the picturesque town of Orbe or the wine-producing villages of Valeyres-sous-Rances and Rances, this trail takes you from impressive Roman mosaics to the stunning gorges of the Orbe, via the venerable Montcherand Church and the traditional cellars of Côtes de l’Orbe AOC.

The Côtes de l'Orbe AOC vineyards cover 180 hectares and include 25 grape varieties, mainly red. This walk forms a loop starting from Orbe or the wine villages of Valeyres-sous-Rances and Rances. On the way, hikers discover the town of Orbe, the Roman mosaics, Montcherand church and above all the charming vineyard paths and winegrowing villages. During the walk, a stop at a restaurant or a producer to try the finest Côtes de l’Orbe AOC wines is a must!

Steps

1. Orbe Parking

This paid car park is a very good starting point to discover Orbe and its region.

2. Former Church of Our Lady

Built on the site of a chapel from the 12th Century, this church has had a turbulent history.

3. Esplanade of the Castle and Round Tower

A favourite recreation area, the esplanade and its Round Tower – open to visitors – offer a panoramic view of the Jura and Alps.

4. Camping TCS Le Signal

Just next to the swimming pool the camp site of Orbe is on a grassy field in a quiet area nicely shaded by tall trees.

5. Orbe roman mosaics

The finest set of Roman mosaics north of the Alps discovered near the town of Orbe, at Boscéaz with its panoramic views.

6. Côtes de l'Orbe AOC

The oldest wine-making region in Switzerland is known for its pretty villages and its smooth and robust red grape varieties.

7. Cave du Château de Valeyres

La cave du Château de Valeyres is located in the village of Valeyres-sous-Rances in the heart of the Côtes de l’Orbe vineyards.

8. Gorge of Orbe

Between Vallorbe and Orbe, this route of 17 km invites the hiker to the heart of a rich and diversified natural environment for a 4h and 20mn walk.

9. Montcherand Church

This Cluniac church, 2 km from Orbe, is decorated with frescoes from the 12th Century, the oldest figurative frescoes in Switzerland.

Access

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Agence ADNV / Office du Tourisme du Nord Vaudois

Avenue de la Gare 2

1401 Yverdon-les-Bains

tourisme@adnv.ch Open in Google Maps

Practical information

Transport
If you want to shorten the walk a bit, you could take the postal buses between Orbe and Rances.

Duration
The journey extends over 14 kms walking. Allow for more or less a four hour walk.

Accessibility
The walk is accessible for people of average fitness and children who can walk unaided. The bike route is not suitable for beginners, but it will appeal to seasoned cyclists.

When you need a break...
The scenery in Côtes de l'Orbe lends itself perfectly to well-deserved breaks. Be sure to respect nature and the private properties along the way; don't leave any other souvenirs of your passing-by than taking photos...
The village cafés and restaurants along the way will gladly welcome you for a drink or a meal.

Thank you for your attention and caution. Enjoy your stroll in the heart of the Côtes de l'Orbe vineyards!