- Route: K12 NE Chemin de l’abeille rouge Arêtes (Bus 301) – Cerisier (Bus 311)
- Region: Chasseral (Canton Neuenburg)
- Theme: Family Hikes
- Distance: 7 km
- Duration: 2 h
- Ascent: 132 m
- Difficulty (SAC scale): T1
- Terrain: Wanderland-Route Rouge · SAC T1
- Attractions along the route: Ancien tunnel ferroviaire désaffecté, Bunker militaire
- Legend: The Secret of the Underground Mills of Le Locle
This delightful family hiking adventure along the K12 NE Chemin de l’abeille rouge Arêtes (Bus 301) – Cerisier (Bus 311) route in Chasseral offers a refreshing 7 km journey taking about 2 hours with a gentle SAC T1 difficulty, perfectly blending scenic exploration of Neuenburg with the captivating legend of the underground mills.
Discovering the Ridges and Historic Sights of Chasseral
Your journey begins at the designated starting point easily accessible via public transport using Bus 301. Stepping onto the trail, you are immediately greeted by the crisp mountain air of the Neuenburg region. The path meanders gently through open terrain and tranquil landscapes, making it an ideal choice for families looking to enjoy nature without extreme physical exertion. Over the course of 2 hours and covering 7 km, you will experience the peaceful ambiance of the Chasseral heights, rated as an easy SAC T1 route that ensures safe and steady walking for all ages.
As you hike along, the trail reveals fascinating glimpses into the past. Keep your eyes open for intriguing historical remnants scattered along the route. One notable touristenattraktion is the Ancien tunnel ferroviaire désaffecté, a hauntingly quiet reminder of early regional infrastructure now reclaimed by nature. A short distance further, you will encounter another captivating Sehenswürdigkeit, the old Bunker militaire, standing silently as a relic of times gone by. These cultural touchstones enrich the natural beauty of the landscape, providing wonderful educational moments for children and history enthusiasts alike.
The Mystery of the Underground Mills of Le Locle
Beyond the visible history of the trail lies a realm of shadow and myth deeply rooted in the local folklore of Neuenburg. According to legend, the hidden depths beneath the earth near Le Locle harbor secret hydraulic operations and mysterious machinery. Long ago, locals whispered of clandestine subterranean waters turning heavy millstones in absolute darkness, operated by unseen hands and echoing through the limestone caverns. This haunting tale of the underground mills has enchanted generations, adding a layer of eerie magic to your exploration of the Chasseral heights. As you walk the peaceful ridges, let your imagination wander into the depths of the earth where the legendary waters still turn their silent wheels.
Find all the details on this route, including the map, on the route page for K12 NE Chemin de l’abeille rouge Arêtes (Bus 301) – Cerisier (Bus 311).
You can read the full legend “The Secret of the Underground Mills of Le Locle” here: The Secret of the Underground Mills of Le Locle.
Experience this hike with a GPS audio guide and the matching legend right in the app: Legends & Stories, Navigation & Offline Maps.
Photo: Christopher Politano / Pexels
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the tour take?
The tour takes approximately 2 hours over a distance of 7 km, classified as an easy SAC T1 route.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes – the gentle terrain, short duration, and interesting historical sights make it an ideal family-friendly outing.
How do I get to the starting point?
You can easily reach the trailhead by taking Bus 301 to the starting stop of the Chemin de l’abeille rouge Arêtes.
What legend is associated with the route?
Along the trail, hikers can discover the captivating tale known as The Secret of the Underground Mills of Le Locle.
