In Nods, there are several ways to discover the Jura’s landscape and cultural heritage, from the ski area and snowshoe trail to the historic forge and local cheese production. For planning, the specific route details are just as useful as the seasonal conditions for winter activities. This helps you decide whether you’re looking for a clearly defined trail, winter sports, or an insight into local crafts and products.
Winter sports and snowshoe trails
The Téléski de Nods ski area has two red and two blue runs, with a total length of 2 kilometres. The area also includes a 270-metre bob and toboggan run, which is open to everyone. These winter activities operate seasonally, and the time of year also affects snow conditions. Skiing, bobsledding and snowboarding are offered at the Nods-Chasseral station.
Another option is the Parcours de Nods: this snowshoe trail starts and ends in Nods, is 6 kilometres long and takes around 2 hours and 55 minutes. It reaches an altitude of around 1,200 metres and offers views of the Plateau de Diesse and the Alps in a forest setting. This gives you the distance and approximate duration for this trail, while the runs are described by their colours and total length. Check seasonal conditions before setting out.
Cross-country skiing is also available on the Circuit Nods - Le Caillou. This trail runs from the Parking de Nods through typical Jura forests to the Prés-Vaillons. The cross-country ski trail is at Le Caillou, at the far end of the Prés-Vaillons. The trails therefore differ not only in activity, but also in their specific location and route details.
Ridge trails and scenery at Chasseral
The Sentier de la crête de Chasseral is a short themed trail from the hotel to the highest point of the ridge, following the watershed. A prominent section is protected with wooden pieces because sensitive plants grow there. If you’re interested in the ridge landscape, this trail offers both a route and a specific reminder to take special care around the plants.
The «Par dessus le Mont-Sujet» trail features a section with wooden sculptures and a rock fresco. The summit plateau of Mont Sujet is notable for its particularly rich flora and fauna. Conditions on this route can vary seasonally. For another perspective on the mountain ridge, the ViaBerna stage from Nods to Magglingen leads from the foot of Chasseral over Mont Sujet. The southern side of Chasseral also offers mountain biking opportunities among forests and wooded pastures.
The Chasseral regional nature reserve works to promote sustainable development in the region and preserve its cultural heritage. This mission adds a regional context to the nature and cultural experiences without treating the individual trails and places as if they were the same.
Blacksmithing culture, cheese and rides
The Forge de Nods is a heritage treasure dating from 1876. Numerous machines from the late 19th and early 20th centuries are still preserved in the current building. The forge includes tools and machinery, and a demonstration is also available. Visits are arranged on request. If you’d like to see the workshop, please enquire in advance.
Another local discovery is the Fromagerie de Nods. It produces cheese and dairy products exclusively from high-quality raw milk supplied by producers in the village. Visitors can sample products at any time during opening hours. Check the opening hours before your visit if you’re planning to sample the products.
The Poney Ranch is located on the southern slope of Chasseral at an altitude of 900 metres. It offers horse and pony rides for adults and children; reservations are required. The activities range from trails and winter sports to crafts, tastings and rides. Which ones suit your stay depends primarily on whether you’re planning a particular route, a seasonal activity, or a visit that requires a reservation.
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