Waterfalls around Vugelles-La Mothe are found in the Jura-Nord vaudois region, known for its natural beauty, including notable waterfalls and impressive gorges. This area features dramatic landscapes carved by streams, with paths winding alongside water and through rock formations. The region offers a variety of hydrological phenomena, from permanent cascades to temporary karstic emergences.
Last updated: May 16, 2026
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The hiking trail through the Covatannaz Gorge is beautifully laid out and offers breathtaking views down into the Arnon River. More exposed sections are equipped with metal railings, making this easy hike suitable for families.
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Just a few hundred meters from the edge of the village is the entrance (or, coming from the other direction, the exit) of the Poëta Raisse Gorge. It can be visited and hiked free of charge. There are a few parking spaces, a large log cabin for picnics, and a signpost.
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Impressive area. The climb is not suitable for people who are afraid of heights.
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Very pretty, even on the way down!
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The iroute is open again. We did it today.
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The Areuse karst spring is a natural spring which emerges from limestone rocks and forms the Areuse river. You can start your hike from the village of Noiraigue and go up the river to the source, located at the foot of the Clusette cliffs. Along the way, you will enjoy views of gorges, bridges and waterfalls. The Areuse karst source is a good example of underground water circulation in a karst system.
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A remarkable waterfall for the Jura. The grotto, however, is a little cave at best 😃
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The region around Vugelles-La Mothe is known for its dramatic landscapes, including deep gorges carved by streams and unique karstic phenomena. You can explore permanent cascades like the one in Gorges de Covatannaz, as well as impressive temporary karstic emergences such as the Fontannets de la Mothe, which form magnificent cascades after heavy rainfall.
Yes, the Cascade and Cave of Môtiers, located within the Gorges de Poëta-Raisse, holds historical importance due to its connection with the philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau. He famously described a beautiful waterfall in the vicinity, and bronze pebbles inscribed with his quotes line the path from Môtiers to the waterfall.
Among the most appreciated by the komoot community are the Gorges de Covatannaz, known for its beautifully laid out hiking trail. Another popular spot is the Cascade and Cave of Môtiers, noted for its impressive cascade and historical ties. The Starting point of the Poëta-Raisse gorge is also a favorite, offering a scenic entrance to a hiking trail with a picnic area.
Yes, the Fontannets de la Mothe, located directly in Vugelles-la-Mothe, are a series of temporary karstic springs. They are particularly impressive during periods of heavy rainfall and high water levels, when the underground water system overflows to create powerful and magnificent cascades.
Many trails are suitable for families, though some sections can be intermediate in difficulty. For example, the hiking trail through the Gorges de Covatannaz is beautifully laid out, and more exposed sections are equipped with metal railings, making it accessible for families.
Most trails around the waterfalls, such as those in the Gorges de Poëta-Raisse or leading to the Saut de l'Eau waterfall, are generally rated as intermediate. The Gorges de Poëta-Raisse trail, for instance, is 7.6 km long with an elevation gain of 570 m, featuring stairs and walkways. Some sections, like near Saut de l'Eau, may not be suitable for those afraid of heights.
The best time to visit depends on the specific waterfall. For the Gorges de Poëta-Raisse, including the Cascade and Cave of Môtiers, the gorges are generally open from April 30th to November 1st. For the Fontannets de la Mothe, the most impressive cascades occur after heavy rainfall, making them a dynamic spectacle during wetter periods.
The Starting point of the Poëta-Raisse gorge offers a dedicated parking lot, making it a convenient access point for exploring that area. For other waterfalls, parking availability may vary, so it's advisable to check specific location details.
The region around Vugelles-La Mothe offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including touring bicycle and road cycling options, as well as challenging mountain biking trails. For example, explore routes like 'Col des Étroits Pass – Chasseron Summit loop' for cycling or 'View from Le Chasseron – Téléski des Rasses parking loop' for MTB. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Vugelles-La Mothe, Road Cycling Routes around Vugelles-La Mothe, and MTB Trails around Vugelles-La Mothe guides.
Yes, many waterfalls are integrated into hiking trails. The Gorges de Covatannaz features a well-maintained hiking trail with views of the Arnon River. The Gorges de Poëta-Raisse offers a challenging but rewarding hike alongside the Breuil stream, leading to the Cascade and Cave of Môtiers. The Saut de l'Eau waterfall is also part of an impressive hiking area.
Visitors frequently praise the natural beauty and the well-maintained trails. For instance, the trail through the Gorges de Covatannaz is described as 'beautifully laid out' with 'breathtaking views.' The Cascade and Cave of Môtiers is highlighted as a 'remarkable waterfall for the Jura,' and the Starting point of the Poëta-Raisse gorge is appreciated for its beautiful picnic area and convenient parking.
Yes, the Karst Spring of the Areuse is a notable natural monument in the vicinity. It's a natural spring emerging from limestone rocks that forms the Areuse river, offering a good example of underground water circulation in a karst system. You can hike from Noiraigue up the river to its source, enjoying views of gorges and waterfalls along the way.


Happy to travel a little further afield? Then browse these guides for the best waterfalls around Vugelles-La Mothe: