When I looked at the map of Swissmobile, I discovered that there was a long-distance hike route across Switzerland between Bellelay and the Susten Pass. It was because of that that I decided to follow one part of that long-distance hike route. So, destination Bellelay. This place is best known because it is the birthplace of the famous Cheese of Tête de Moine. This cheese has been produced since the 12th century by the monks of Bellelay Abbey. For those who are not familiar with it, this cheese is supposed not eaten like a traditional cheese. You must scrape the surface with the blade of a knife to produce chips. This is the creamiest way. The best thing, however, is to have a “Girolle” to produce the chips effortlessly.
The starting point of the Via Berna is in fact in front of the Domaine, which are the remains of the former abbey and now houses the Museum of the Tête de Moine.
The first part of this stage would be interesting, if you didn’t have to follow the road from Tavannes to the Gorges du Pichoux. Fortunately, you cross a bog that has been designated as a nature reserve. The trail, at this point, runs over wooden bridges. It is only at Croix Boillat that you leave the road and enter a much quieter environment. You then take a forest road that climbs steeply in places towards Montbautier. Towards the end, the trail runs along the steep coast overlooking the Trame valley.
After a corner, where there is a picnic spot, we cross the hillside pastures to reach a road. A little further up, we notice a small building in front of which there are some gymnastics devices, in particular climbing poles. The presence of these may be surprising when one looks out of context. However, a consultation on the historical maps confirms that this is in fact an old school. It was intended to accommodate the children of Montbautier, Rière Jorat, or even Chalet (Haut de Bémont).
After crossing a small forest, you arrive at the ridge, from which the view becomes increasingly wide. You must then follow the road that leads to the Haut de Bémont. Even if it is not very busy, it is never very pleasant to have to walk on the asphalt. It is only at Haut de Bémont that you leave the road and follow the crest that goes towards Pâturage du Droit. You then arrive at a curious little pass that, according to historical maps, had to be retraced in the 1960s. In fact, continuing towards Tramelan, you follow a road that splits the current road.
A little further, we start the descent towards Tramelan. Here, don’t make a mistake in following the signs, because you can easily find yourself at the other end of the town.
Itinerary : Bellelay (Le Domaine) – La Rouge Eau – Montbautier de Saicourt – Les Voitines – Rière Jorat – Haut de Bémont – Les Saignes – Pâturage du Droit – Tramelan
Distance: 11Km
Altitude gain: 340 m
Duration: 3 hours