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The canton of Neuchâtel
The canton of Neuchatel is divided into six districts (Neuchatel, Boudry, Val-de-Ruz, Val-de-Travers, La Chaux-de-Fonds and Le Locle) on two distinct areas: the "mountains" where industrial towns of La Chaux-de-Fonds and Le Locle flourish in a sunny climate over 1,000 meters, and the "plateau" on the shores of Lake Neuchatel.
Between theses two distinct areas, nice roads winding through wild valleys : "Vallée des Ponts", "la Brévine" and "la Sagne".
The "Val-de-Ruz" spread in a wide valley just minutes from Neuchatel, since the construction of the highway while "Val-de-Travers", on the border of French Franche-Comte, looks like the end of the world.
In fact, Val-de-Ruz plays a role of "dormitory city" for Neuchâtel workers, and we must admit that the region has no real identity.
Val-de-Travers however claims his identity. It is the only district in the Canton which is not connected to the highway, a "Swiss Corsica" , the birthplace of a famous beverage : Absinthe.
For almost a century, absinthe was banned but secretly produced in the secrecy of these small hills. On 1 March 2005, Absinthe is legal again, nearly 100 years after its ban passed by the Swiss people.
City of Neuchâtel
The city of Neuchâtel is the capital of the canton.
On the heights of the city, the castle of Neuchâtel - now the headquarters of the cantonal government and parliament - and the Collegiate (symbol of Reform of Farel, a statue pays tribute to the reformist). Both built in the 12th century, they are adjacent to the Prison Tower still operational today ... as a peak that rises above the old city and the lake, it is probably the best view of Neuchatel (but we did not try) and is also the oldest building in the lower part of the city.
Neuchâtel offers one of the largest and most charming pedestrian areas of Switzerland, barely disturbed by the yellow bus. Over the years, this pedestrian area continues to gradually expand.
Population : 32'000
Altitude : 430 m.
Canton of Neuchâtel / Practical information :
Area : 803 km2
Population : 168'000
Capital : Neuchâtel
Language : French
Predominant religion : Protestant
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