Rokwiler: Trails, Nature and Cultural Heritage

Rokwiler offers several ways to explore the area: the landscape around Montoz, walks in the Forêt de Chaindon and the history of the Foire de Chaindon each have their own appeal. Mini golf in the village and a mountain bike ride are also among the activities described.

Between the Birstal and Montoz

Rokwiler lies at 731 m above sea level in the Birstal, in the broad basin of the Jura’s long valley, the Vallée de Tavannes. South of the Birs floodplain, the municipality extends as far as the Jura range of Montoz, where its highest point is located at 1,312 m above sea level. Several small hills lie between the Birs and its left-bank tributary, the Trame, including Haut de Spont (828 m above sea level) and Châtillon (822 m above sea level).

Land-use figures also offer a snapshot tied to a particular period: in 1997, 12 percent was reported as built-up land, 42 percent as forest and wooded areas, and 46 percent as agricultural land. In the west, the municipality extends in a narrow strip into the Forêt de Chaindon. The wooded pastures below Montoz support the development of fauna and flora.

Forest Trails, Springs and Views

The Forêt de Chaindon is a good place for walks of varying lengths: relatively flat terrain and intersecting trails make it possible to choose from numerous routes of different lengths. Along the way, you may spot birds, foxes, frogs and roe deer, among other wildlife. The forest is also home to the Source aux sables and the spring known as Reusreux, which emerges from a tree.

The extensive pastures below Montoz offer space for picnics and walks. Mushroom picking is also possible there, subject to the season, conditions and applicable rules. The picnic area is available by prior reservation and has a fire pit with a grill grate. A covered shelter provides tables and benches for around 30 people. Check the reservation arrangements before your visit.

Werdtberg is a waymark on the Montoz ridge trail (426). In suitable weather, the view from there stretches across the Bernese Alps and the Chasseral to the Seeland. Weather conditions determine whether the view is visible. Another route option starts in Rokwiler: the 25 km VTT route No. 863. It takes you past the Roman road and the Pierre-Pertuis with its distinctive hole in the rock.

Cultural History and Events

The Foire de Chaindon is an important part of local cultural history: its earliest documented records date back to September 2, 1626. Since 2017, the Foire has been included on Switzerland’s list of intangible cultural heritage. It is scheduled for the first Monday in September. If you would like to plan your trip around the event, check the specific event dates in advance.

Rokwiler is on the Sonceboz-Sombeval–Moutier railway line; the station is located in the heart of the Foire de Chaindon. If you are travelling by train, check the timetable and event information for your planned travel date. Chaindon is also home to the 18th-century St-Léonard Church. Its features include frescoes and stained-glass windows.

Mini Golf and Village Amenities

The mini golf course is in the centre of the village, between the schools and the playground. It is open to everyone and hosts competitions at national level. Adults and children can play there, then enjoy drinks or ice cream at the refreshment stand. Opening hours may vary by season. When you visit, also check which refreshments are available.

When planning your trip, it is worth keeping the different conditions for activities in mind: the view from Werdtberg depends on the weather, mushroom picking is subject to the season and rules, and the picnic area requires a reservation in advance. This makes it easier to plan nature, trails and culture around your own travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Saules, Sornetan.

For the main travel overview: Bern.