Le Cerneux-Péquignot: Village History and Winter Trails

The area of Le Cerneux-Péquignot follows the French-Swiss border along wooded ridges; its highest point reaches 1,285 metres. The village lies between 1,043 and 1,285 metres above sea level. Gardens, open spaces, passageways, steps, dry-stone walls and smaller dry-stone walls shape the character of the old village centre.

Churches, Chapels and Village History

The Church of Notre-Dame de la Visitation originated as a chapel built in 1690 with the permission of the prior of Morteau in neighbouring France. Its furnishings include a remarkable Baroque high altar and an organ installed in 1995. It was made by Manufacture d’Orgues de St-Martin SA and has eight stops, one manual and a pedal. These details tell different chapters of the church’s history: the chapel marks its early origins, while the organ is a specific later addition.

The Chapelle de Bétod also has several distinctive historical and artistic features. It was built in 1773 or 1776; both years are cited as possible construction dates. The chapel houses a statue of the Black Madonna of Einsiedeln. Four carved and painted panels depict the Passion of Christ. A visit to the two churches and chapels therefore offers a chance to compare different forms of sacred art and different periods of origin.

Near the international border, the Vierge de Gardot monument was erected in 1866. It is surrounded by a garden listed in the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens of the Canton of Neuchâtel. The village’s history also includes a devastating episode: in 1639, Swedish bands killed, looted and burned the village. Only two of its 58 houses survived.

Winter Activities and Trails

The winter activities vary in type: cross-country ski trails run near typical Jura farmhouses, the village has a small ski lift with an illuminated downhill run, and a 4.5-kilometre groomed trail is available for walks in the snow. There is also a toboggan run for children in the hamlet of Bas-du-Cerneux. A winter walk from Le Cerneux-Péquignot passes through fir-tree landscapes and by individual farms on its way to the French-Swiss border. Snow and trail conditions can vary; take them into account when planning your trip.

In winter, Le Cerneux-Péquignot and the Vallée de La Brévine are connected by various cross-country ski trails. This means you can consider local winter activities alongside cross-country skiing in the region without treating the different activities as the same. In the wider region, a 4.5-kilometre groomed trail is also described for snowshoeing and winter walking. Numerous marked trails invite you to hike; conditions may vary.

For the warmer months, marked trails for hiking, cycling and mountain biking are noted in the wider area. The regional landscape also includes valleys, lakes such as Lac des Taillères and notable geological formations. Creux du Van is a rocky cirque with panoramic views, as well as ibex and chamois.

Cheese Dairy and Local Produce

At the Fromagerie du Cerneux-Péquignot, visitors can discover and buy cheese directly from the dairy. As direct-sales arrangements may change, it is advisable to check them before travelling. Distillerie La Sapinière makes and sells absinthe, gentian schnapps and fruit brandies; if you are interested in visiting, ask about arrangements in advance. In Bétod, In Vino Veritas offers wine tastings by appointment. Arrange your preferred time directly with the business, as such offers may change.

A historical connection to cheesemaking is also recorded: in 2024, Olivier Baudois of the Fromagerie du Cerneux-Péquignot received the Gruyère-neuchâtelois award. Together with the local produce, this dated reference offers another insight into local food culture, though it is not itself a visitor activity.

Discover more destinations: Les Brenets, Les Ponts-De-Martel, La Brévine, Brot-Plamboz, Le Locle

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