Orbe-Schlucht

A fantastic hike that starts in Vallorbe, near the French border. The path leads through the mystical Orbe Gorges, the most spectacular of which is the Saut du Day, where the Orbe falls in several waterfalls. The path then passes the Barrage du Day, a dam built in 1955 following the river.

Surefootedness and good footwear are a matter of course, especially the section from the railway viaduct to Saut du Day. As it is today, it can be slippery even when the weather is nice and therefore dangerous in steep places. The hike is not recommended when it rains. The hike along the dammed river L'Orbe, which sometimes rushes between steep cliffs and rushes into the valley, is varied and suitable for everyone. Below Vallorbe, the river L'Orbe is still calm, backed up by the barrage at Le Day. After the imposing Railway Viaduct Day, that will change quickly when the river picks up speed and foams and plunges down in several steps over the famous Saut du Day (waterfall). The water, the moss-covered stones, the sometimes dramatic landscape, which suddenly appears lovely again around the next corner, make the tour something very special. On the way you can marvel at many witnesses from the industrial pioneering days - weirs, dams, tunnels, canals and turbine houses at the Saut du Day and in Montcherand.

Not quite an easy hike (especially in wet weather), but absolutely worthwhile. Narrow beautiful gorge and increasingly impressive waterfalls.