The best walks and hikes around Les Ponts-de-Martel

There are over 15 hiking trails around Les Ponts-de-Martel, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. You'll find everything from easy loops to more challenging ascents.

The terrain around Les Ponts-de-Martel is quite diverse, featuring extensive peat bogs, vast forests, and expansive pastures. You'll also encounter karstic features like dolines and the Bied stream. While many routes are easy, some, like those leading to Grand Sommartel, involve moderate ascents. The region offers 8 easy, 6 moderate, and 1 difficult trail.

Yes, Les Ponts-de-Martel offers several family-friendly hikes. An excellent option is the Grotte de l'Ours — loop from Les-Ponts-de-Martel, an easy 5.4 km trail that takes you through forests and past the fascinating Grotte de l'Ours (Bear Cave). Another easy choice is the Picnic area loop from Les Ponts-de-Martel, which is only 3.25 km long with minimal elevation gain.

Most hiking trails in Les Ponts-de-Martel are dog-friendly, allowing you to explore the beautiful landscapes with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves like the peat bogs, to protect the fragile ecosystem and local wildlife. Always check specific trail regulations before you go.

Yes, many of the popular routes in Les Ponts-de-Martel are circular, making them convenient for day trips. Examples include the Grotte de l'Ours — loop from Les-Ponts-de-Martel, the Grand Sommartel and Bear Cave Loop, and the Peat bog trail – Picnic area loop from Les Ponts-de-Martel.

Les Ponts-de-Martel is rich in unique natural features. You shouldn't miss the extensive peat bogs, home to diverse flora and fauna, which you can explore on the Peat bog trail – Picnic area loop from Les Ponts-de-Martel. The Grotte de l'Ours (Bear Cave) is another fascinating rock formation. For panoramic views, hike towards Grand Sommartel, the highest point in the area, offering vistas of Val-de-Ruz and the Chasseral Regional Park.

While not directly within Les Ponts-de-Martel, the region is close to several impressive waterfalls. The magnificent Saut du Doubs Waterfall, located on the Swiss-French border, is a spectacular natural wonder. You can also find other beautiful cascades like the Chute de la Verrière and the Areuse Gorge Waterfalls a bit further afield.

The best time for hiking in Les Ponts-de-Martel is generally from spring to autumn, when the weather is mild and the trails are clear. Spring brings blooming wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage. In winter, the area transforms into a cross-country skiing paradise, but some trails may still be accessible for winter hiking, especially along the Bied stream.

The hiking trails in Les Ponts-de-Martel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 900 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique peat bog landscapes, the peaceful forests, and the diverse scenery. The well-maintained paths and variety of routes for all skill levels are also frequently highlighted.

While many routes are easy to moderate, experienced trekkers can find more challenging sections or combine trails for longer, more demanding hikes. The region is also part of longer trekking routes like stages of the HexaTrek and the Jura route, offering opportunities for multi-day adventures through the Neuchâtel Jura mountains.

Yes, parking is generally available at or near the main trailheads in Les Ponts-de-Martel. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route descriptions or local tourism websites. It's advisable to check in advance, especially during peak season.

Beyond the immediate hiking trails, the region offers other points of interest. You can explore nearby mountain passes like Col de la Vue des Alpes, which offers stunning views. The area is also close to the magnificent Creux du Van rock cirque, a natural reserve known for its breathtaking panoramic views and wildlife.