Following the winding River Birs the plain of the Jura capital to Delémont. Through a gorge to enter the ravines of the Gorges de Pichoux, soon to reach the raw grassland and pine landscape of Franches Montagnes.

Bustling Basel and its suburbs accompany the cyclist for a time, soon city, soon village, the hurrying tram, the serene concrete anthroposophic Goetheanum monument. The narrowness of the valley first forces a change in landscape, in Laufental between steep rock faces and forests wind the River Birs, lorries and the elegant ICN tilting train. Between two city gates, the rows of houses Laufen old town, the ceramics factory with the same name.

Upwards along the Birs to the plain of Delémont, the capital of young Canton Jura, a well-kept town complex, and the Wildmann fountain. Small villages along the River Sorne – the legendary military bicycle was made here – then up into a wild gorge, in the bizarre ravines of the Gorges de Pichoux.

Along the way, standing alone, the former Bellelay Monastery, further up the raw and windy landscape of Franches Montagnes, solitary farmsteads, grazing cattle and a beautiful 2-km-long avenue with over 250 maple trees.

Stages Places   Arrival / return travel  Rail, bus, boat recommendations 

Length79 km

 Height differenceBasel–Tramelan: 1'000 m
Tramelan–Basel: 280 m

 RequirementsGrade: medium
Conditions: medium

 SignalizationFor cycling, follow the logo indicated on the red signposts.