Sonvilier between the Suze and the Jura ranges

Sonvilier lies at 802 m above sea level in the upper part of the long Jura valley of Vallon de Saint-Imier, on both sides of the Suze (Schüss) and between the Jura ranges of Montagne du Droit and Mont d’Amin. Those looking for a hotel in Sonvilier can get their bearings by exploring the area’s landscape, cultural heritage and farm activities. These themes offer different clues as to what might shape a stay: the history of the castle, the architecture of the temple or insights into agriculture.

Location and elevation profile

The municipality covers 23.8 km² and includes a section of the Vallon de Saint-Imier valley basin through which the Suze flows. To the south, it extends to the Mont d’Amin anticline; to the north, it climbs the steep southern slope to the broad ridge of Montagne du Droit. The village and municipality therefore encompass different elevations: the highest point in the municipality is on Mont d’Amin at 1,269 m, while Montagne du Droit rises to 1,220 m. These figures help distinguish the valley village from the surrounding high ground.

As a general geographic reference point, Sonvilier is around 12 km east-northeast of La Chaux-de-Fonds as the crow flies. This figure describes the direct distance, not a road route. Within the municipality, the river area and valley basin are part of the landscape, as are the rising slopes and ridges of the two Jura ranges.

Erguel Castle: history and architecture

The ruins of Erguel Castle stand on a rocky promontory above Sonvilier, on a wooded rocky ridge. The widely visible remains of the round tower are considered the largest castle ruins in the Bernese Jura. The round keep has a maximum external diameter of 7.50 m; its walls are up to 2.50 m thick. These measurements give a tangible sense of the structure, without describing the castle solely in terms of its location.

Its history can also be told in several stages. The d’Erguel family, also known as d’Arguel, from Franche-Comté, probably settled in Château d’Erguël in the 11th century to serve as bailiffs there. From the 13th century, the castle was the centre of a bailiwick of the Prince-Bishopric of Basel. In 1284, Prince-Bishop Henri d’Isny had extensive restoration and fortification work carried out. The bourgeoisie of Sonvilier acquired Château d’Erguël in 1845. Its origins, function, expansion and later acquisition thus mark different chapters in local history.

The temple and a route through the landscape

Temple de Sonvilier was built between 1831 and 1832. It is an elongated building with an octagonal floor plan. The temple is closed and opens on request; arrange access before your visit. Planning a visit inside is therefore different from learning about the building’s architectural history.

The Chemin de Mont-Soleil between Sonvilier and Saint-Imier offers a different perspective, with views over wooded pastures. Together with the valley and the high ground, it reflects one aspect of the municipality’s landscape, while the castle and temple represent its cultural and architectural history.

Farm life at La Combe d’Humbert

At the on-site cheese dairy at La Combe d’Humbert, cheese is made from the milk of twelve cows. A range of the farm’s own products is processed and sold directly. The cheese cellar, with its homemade products, can be visited at any time; check the visiting arrangements before you travel. The cellar and products put the farm’s produce centre stage.

The Parc Chasseral programme “Un jour à la ferme” is offered at La Combe d’Humbert in Sonvilier. Participants meet the people who run the farm and try out everyday farm tasks. This differs from exploring the cheese cellar: the focus here is on meeting the farmers and taking part in practical activities on the farm. Registration and seasonal dates may change; check both before planning your visit.

Discover more destinations: Cormoret, Cortébert, Péry, La Ferrière Be, Renan, Orvin, St-Imier, Villeret Be

For the overview of the wider region: Courtelary.