Saint-Imier

Born of the watchmaking industry, Saint-Imier has preserved its industrial past in its orderly town planning and light-filled facades. On the banks of the River Suze, the historic buildings of Longines, still in use today, is a testament to this tradition of precision. More than just an economic hub, the city was also an intellectual and social centre of the avant-garde, as the birthplace of the Swiss anarchist movement. This rich heritage can be discovered through the Circuit Secret, an immersive tour punctuated by videos, archives and stories.

Saint-Imier lies in the heart of the Chasseral nature park. A funicular railway runs from the station to Mont-Soleil, a panoramic plateau dedicated to renewable energies. Guided tours of the solar power plant, as well as exploring the interior of a wind turbine and the astronomical observatory combine hiking and learning. In summer, the region is perfect for exploring on foot, by mountain bike, scooter or even on a paragliding flight. In winter, the cross-country ski trails and the Bugnenets-Savagnières ski area offer winter sports experiences away from the crowds.