Grand Chasseral region
Between nature and tradition, shaped by deep valleys, flower-filled mountain pastures and steep ridges, the Grand Chasseral region offers both a place to escape and an enchanting natural setting for hikes and relaxation. The Chasseral summit, towering at 1,606 metres, is the highest point in the region, providing a stunning 360° panoramic view over valleys, the Alps, and lakes. The peaks and valleys of Grand Chasseral offer visitors a wide range of activities: hiking and outdoor sports, cultural and historical heritage, industry, innovation, and gastronomy — all are part of the experience this remarkable region offers its visitors.
The must-see sights
Grand Chasseral is home to many must-see attractions: a gem on Lake Biel, the medieval town of La Neuveville reveals its secrets through various guided tours.
The Combe Grède, a protected nature reserve, offers peace and unspoiled nature in a refreshing setting on the slopes of the Chasseral. The “Espace découverte Énergie” is a national hub in the field of renewable energy, especially to be enjoyed through guided tours of the solar power station and a wind turbine at Mont-Soleil. For families, Sikypark — the Swiss animal rescue park — and the Camille Bloch chocolate visitor center are sure to delight both young and old.
Local products also take center stage: Bellelay is the birthplace of the famous Tête de Moine AOP cheese. Many other specialties are born of the creativity and passion of the region’s producers.
A rich diversity, waiting to be discovered!
Métairies – farmhouse restaurants
A true symbol of the Jura way of living, the métairies are farmhouse restaurants found near high-altitude pastures. Open mainly from May to October – and sometimes in winter – they welcome hikers, cyclists and the simply curious over simple, generous dishes prepared with local specialties, such as fondue, jambon-rösti or cornet à la crème. Convivial and authentic, they are an integral part of the landscape, particularly in the Chasseral Regional Park, where some offer the famous Chasseral plates made exclusively from local produce. Managed by tenant farmers who are also cooks, farmers and sometimes cheese-makers, these places offer much more than a meal: they are places to share and to discover. Since 2023, métairies have been included in Switzerland's register of living traditions, in recognition of their heritage and cultural importance.
Terroir – local delicacies
A great way to discover the Grand Chasseral region is through food. As the birthplace of Tête de Moine AOP and home of the chocolate haven Camille Bloch, the region has a rich, vibrant and deeply rooted range of terroir products. Each reflects the character of an area and is shaped by the passion of its artisans. Throughout the year, markets, festivals and tours celebrate this gourmet heritage. In Bellelay, the Maison de la Tête de Moine shows you the history of an iconic cheese, while in Courtelary, the Camille Bloch visitor centre takes you behind the scenes of making Ragusa and Torino chocolate. For a completely immersive experience, head to La Couronne – Cœur du Grand Chasseral, in Sonceboz, a lively place where local produce can be tasted, experienced and shared.
Contact and information
Grand Chasseral Tourisme
Rue Pierre Pertuis 1
CH-2605 Sonceboz-Sombeval
