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Location: Jura Mountains, between the towns of Vallorbe and Orbe
Distance: 10.5 miles/17 km
Duration: 4-5 hours (Starting at Vallorbe train station, concluding at Orbe Poste)
Overall elevation descent: 1083 ft/330 m
A walk under the forest canopy through the Gorges de l'Orbe is an inviting journey into the heart of a peaceful and luxuriant natural enclosure. It's a protected nature reserve where fox, chamois, kingfishers, and trout find habitat, and where you can find seclusion and escape from the stress of city life.
The Orbe River has its source in the Jura Mountains of France, then cuts it's course through the limestone caves of Vallorbe, only to emerge again as it nourishes the villages of Vallorbe, Les Clées, and Orbe. Its flow is never hurried, and although the trail rises and descends along the rivers banks, the journey is a relaxing stroll from one picturesque village to another.
The nearest city is Yverdon-les-Bains at the west end of Lake Neuchâtel where you can pick up a map and other area information at the tourist office near the train station. The logical starting point for the walk is the train station at Vallorbe, which is served by both rail and bus connections from Yverdon.
From the train station you'll be following the familiar yellow walking trail signs, often marked "Gorges de l'Orbe," as you descend through the town of Vallorbe. It will take about 30 minutes to pass through Vallorbe, so watch the signs carefully. Once at the river, you may want to consider a stop at the Musée du Fer and Chemin de Fer, which will give you insights into the history of the area.
Beyond Vallorbe and the small train station at Le Day, the trail crosses a small dam and the surrounding forest becomes enveloping. Wild blackberries abound, and primroses, violets, and even Hart's-tongue Fern (Phyllitis scolopendrium) provide a plush undercover. Limestone tunnels, catwalks, and occasional river crossings add a bit of intrigue to the route.
The village of Les Clées is a scenic midday stop, and the La Croix Blanche restaurant is a good choice for lunch before continuing on through the lower gorge to Montcherand and Orbe.
Arriving in Orbe is a pleasant surprise since this village, which dates to Roman times, doesn't detract one bit from the charm and pastoral ambiance of the gorge. You can stay in Orbe for a few hours or a day. You'll find the best way back to Yverdon is to take the direct bus (hourly service) from Orbe Poste to Yverdon Gare.
