4.6
(18)
224
hikers
Le Soliat-La Grand Vy Trail
01:50
6.07km
190m
Hiking
Hike the easy 3.8-mile Le Soliat-La Grand Vy Trail in Creux du Van Nature Reserve, featuring panoramic views and dramatic rock cirques.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
552 m
Creux du Van
Highlight • Gorge
Translated by Google •
Tip by
1.97 km
Creux du Van
Highlight (Segment) • Canyon
Translated by Google •
Tip by
2.07 km
Viewpoint over the Creux du Van
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
3.07 km
La Grand Vy
Highlight • Restaurant
Translated by Google •
Tip by
6.07 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.94 km
115 m
Surfaces
5.34 km
694 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (1,450 m)
Lowest point (1,360 m)
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Weather
Powered by Foreca
Tuesday 19 May
16°C
4°C
30 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is the Le Soliat-La Grand Vy Trail?
This specific trail is rated as easy by komoot, making it accessible for most hikers. While longer routes in the area can be moderate, this particular path offers gentle slopes and a manageable distance.
What kind of terrain will I encounter on the trail?
You can expect a varied terrain, including forest roads and root-filled paths through dense woods. Sections may involve walking along cliff edges, through pastures, and over rocky steps. Swiss trails are generally well-maintained and signposted.
What are the main highlights and viewpoints along the route?
The primary highlight is the magnificent Creux du Van, a colossal natural rock cirque. You'll also find a stunning Viewpoint over the Creux du Van, offering panoramic vistas. The alpine farmhouse La Grand Vy is another notable spot.
What wildlife might I encounter on this hike?
The area is a designated tranquility zone for wildlife. Keep an eye out for ibexes, chamois, and wild goats, especially near the Creux du Van.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail is beautiful in spring, summer, and autumn. Spring brings lush greenery and wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. Summer is ideal for longer daylight hours. Always check local weather conditions before you go.
How do I get to the trailhead for the Le Soliat-La Grand Vy Trail, and where can I park?
The trail typically starts near Le Soliat. While specific parking details for this exact trailhead aren't provided, the region generally has parking available at popular starting points. For public transport, consider routes that connect to nearby villages like Noiraigue, which often serve as access points for the wider Creux du Van area.
Is the Le Soliat-La Grand Vy Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is generally dog-friendly. However, as it passes through a nature reserve and areas with wildlife, it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash to protect local fauna and ensure their safety, especially near cliff edges.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in the Creux du Van Nature Reserve?
No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to hike the trails within the Creux du Van Nature Reserve. It's freely accessible to the public.
Does this trail connect with other hiking routes?
Yes, this route covers significant portions of other official trails. You'll find yourself on sections of the Le Soliat-La Grand Vy, Bas du Single - Le Soliat Cirque Creux du Van, and the famous Jura Crest Trail, among others.
Are there any specific tips for hiking this trail?
Given the trail's easy rating and the presence of La Grand Vy, an alpine farmhouse, consider planning your hike to include a stop there for refreshments or a meal. This can enhance your experience and provide a pleasant break.
How long does it typically take to complete this hike?
The Le Soliat-La Grand Vy Trail is estimated to take approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes to complete, making it a great option for a shorter outing.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Short hike along the Creux du Van ridge. In glorious weather. Today's hike was an acclimatization to the local temperatures, which are 20°C lower than when diving in Egypt a few days ago. This year I haven't made it up the Creux du Van by bike (so far) so we visited it on foot. And experienced a glorious day. The hike starts at the parking lot of the Grand Vy restaurant. The drive up here from Boudry is winding and runs on a narrow road. This should prevent one or the other from driving up. The hike is easy, not much to say about that. Wear good shoes though, you'll stumble along a T1 trail at times, with stepped boulders and coarse roots and rocks. Just for fun, I entered the name "Creux du van" into the Google translator. The result is amusing and once again shows the limits of technical translations: "cavity of the transporter" was the unexpected answer. Well, of course you can translate it like that... Huge and formidable, the Rock Horseshoe is anything but a simple transport cavity. It is phenomenal and unique in Switzerland. And you have a wonderful view over the Jura mountains in the north to France and in the south to the Alps. You can see the Weisshorn, Rothorn, Schwarzhorn and the Schreckhorn on the left. And then many more mountains. For the way back we chose the small hill ranges right next to the rock face. But first we go across the cow meadow up towards the edge of the forest, because we couldn't see the hiking trail marked in Komoot. Later, follow the path that is not at all or barely visible up to the two highest points. Here you have a 360° view. Today the view was great. Back at the restaurant we treated ourselves to a Vermicelle. The reward after the hike, so to speak. The route is easy to walk on and the scenery is hard to beat.