Highlight • Settlement
La Cure
Hiking
4.7
(36)
Running
5.0
(2)
Road cycling
5.0
(2)
La Cure is a truly unique settlement nestled high in the Jura Mountains, famously straddling the Franco-Swiss border. Situated at an elevation of approximately 1161 metres, this village is split between the municipality of Saint-Cergue in the Swiss canton of Vaud and Les Rousses in the French department of Haute-Savoie. Its defining feature is the international boundary that runs directly through the village, creating a fascinating geographical curiosity.
What draws many visitors to La Cure is the extraordinary experience of…
Tips
May 19, 2023
Hiking
Note, the city has a train station where regular and daily trains arrive from Nyon.
•July 7, 2024
Hiking
•July 26, 2024
Running
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Nearby routes
Best routes near La Cure
4.8
(33)
255
hikers
13.9km
04:31
510m
510m
4.3
(6)
108
hikers
12.5km
03:30
260m
260m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(6)
110
hikers
11.1km
03:06
220m
220m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,160 m
Weather
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Friday 10 April
19°C
6°C
50 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 10.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What makes La Cure's location unique?
La Cure is famously bisected by the Franco-Swiss border, with half of the village in Switzerland (Saint-Cergue, Vaud) and the other half in France (Les Rousses, Haute-Savoie). This unique geographical situation means you can literally be in two countries at once, with the border running through several buildings, including the historic Hotel Arbez.
Are there specific hiking trails recommended for beginners or families near La Cure?
Yes, the area around La Cure offers a variety of trails suitable for different skill levels. While the intro mentions general options, you can find easier, family-friendly walks that explore the village's unique character and the immediate Jura landscape. For specific routes, look for trails with lower elevation gain and shorter distances, often starting directly from the village.
Is La Cure accessible by public transport, and what are the options?
Absolutely. La Cure has its own railway station, Gare de La Cure, which is the northern terminus of the Nyon–St-Cergue–Morez line. Regular train services connect La Cure with Nyon in Switzerland, making it very convenient for visitors relying on public transport to reach the village and access nearby hiking routes.
What are the parking options like in La Cure, especially for hikers?
Parking availability in La Cure can vary. While there are typically parking areas within the village, it's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak season or on weekends, as spaces can fill up quickly. Consider using public transport via the train station if you prefer to avoid potential parking challenges.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails around La Cure?
Generally, dogs are welcome on many of the hiking trails in the Jura Mountains around La Cure. However, it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in nature reserves, near livestock, or in crowded areas, and to clean up after them. Check specific trail regulations if you plan to enter protected areas.
Beyond the Hotel Arbez, are there other notable landmarks or natural features to see in La Cure?
While the Hotel Arbez is the most famous landmark due to the border running through it, the village itself offers charming chalet-style architecture and a pleasant atmosphere. The surrounding Jura Mountains provide beautiful alpine scenery and viewpoints. The unique visual presence of the border throughout the village, even outside the hotel, is a continuous point of interest.
What kind of accommodation and dining options are available in La Cure?
La Cure offers a few options for accommodation and dining. The most prominent is the historic Hotel Arbez (also known as Hotel Franco-Suisse or Arbézie), which functions as both a hotel and a restaurant, famously straddling the border. You can find other local cafes and pubs within the village, offering a taste of both Swiss and French hospitality.
How does the Franco-Swiss border impact visitors in La Cure today?
While the Schengen Area has significantly reduced formal border checks, the physical presence of the border remains a fascinating attraction. Visitors can still experience the novelty of being in two countries at once, with the border visibly marked through buildings and the village itself. It's a unique historical and geographical curiosity that adds to the charm of La Cure.
Is La Cure a good destination for winter activities, specifically cross-country skiing?
Yes, La Cure is an excellent base for winter activities. Its location in the Jura Mountains means it's in proximity to skiing areas like Les Rousses, which are well-known for cross-country skiing. The scenic winter landscape provides a beautiful backdrop for snow sports, making it a convenient spot for enthusiasts.
What are the typical distances and durations for walking routes near La Cure?
Walking routes near La Cure vary widely. You can find short, leisurely strolls within the village and its immediate surroundings, lasting under an hour. For more dedicated hikers, there are longer trails extending into the Jura mountains, which can range from a few hours to half-day or full-day excursions, covering several kilometers with varying elevation changes.
Can I find information about the difficulty and elevation of hiking trails near Saint-Cergue and Les Rousses from La Cure?
Yes, from La Cure, you have access to trails leading towards both Saint-Cergue (Switzerland) and Les Rousses (France). These trails offer a range of difficulties, from moderate paths suitable for most hikers to more challenging routes with significant elevation gains in the higher Jura peaks. It's recommended to consult detailed trail maps or hiking apps to understand the specific difficulty, distance, and elevation profiles for your chosen route.