BOUCLE CHAMPETRE DU NORD-VAUDOIS (signposted)

Jura on one side and the Alps on the other, quickly makes its way to the heights of the city. Overlooking Lake Neuchâtel, the route winds its way through the authentic rural landscape of northern Vaud.

Departing from Yverdon-les-Bains railway station, the route passes by the famous Place Pestalozzi and its medieval castle, before quickly leaving the town and gaining height. Looking back, you can admire Lake Neuchâtel and the Château de Grandson in the distance. The route climbs moderately uphill to the gates of Echallens, before dropping back down to the Plaine de l'Orbe. The landscape is predominantly rural. The path is lined with colorful fields and copses, with the Jura and the Alps in the background.

Along the way, enjoy the peace and quiet of typical villages. In Essertines and Vuarrens, you'll find stores selling local produce. There are magnificent views over the varied landscape of the Gros de Vaud, the breadbasket of the canton. Fields of wheat, barley, spelt and corn glisten in the sun. Depending on the season, you can also admire the splendor of the yellow flowers in the rapeseed and sunflower fields.

In the center of the village of Goumoens-la-Ville, you'll find a number of typical farmhouses dating from the 17th to 19th centuries. It's also a great place to fill your shopping basket. Numerous farmers offer a multitude of farm products on a self-service basis. The route crosses the Plaine de l'Orbe to return to Yverdon-les-Bains, where the day comes to a wonderful close by the lake.

Elevation gain : + 460m

Difficulty : Easy

Duration : 2h30 to 7h (depending on options chosen)

Length : 38 km

Type of paths : 100% paved roads