Road Trip from Bienne to Putanges-le-Lac: The Scenic Routes

Are you planning a road trip from Switzerland to Normandy in France? If so, this guide will give you an idea of the different routes available and the time it takes to reach your destination.

The A5 and A1 Route

The quickest route from Bienne to Putanges-le-Lac involves taking the A5 and A1 motorway. Starting from Bienne, take the A5 towards Biel/Bienne Centre and follow the signs for Bern. Once you reach Bern, continue on the A6 and then merge onto the A1 towards Geneva/Lausanne. This route covers a total distance of 548km and it takes approximately 5 hours to reach Putanges-le-Lac.

Although this route is the fastest, it may not be the best option if you want to see the scenic routes. But, if you're in a rush and only want to get to your destination, then this route will do just fine.

The Jurabogen Route

For those who want to see some of Switzerland's natural beauty, the Jurabogen route is a great option. Starting from Bienne, head towards La Chaux-de-Fonds, a UNESCO World Heritage town, which is famous for its watchmaking industry. From there, continue on to the Vosges du Sud Nature Park and enjoy a scenic drive through the French countryside before reaching your destination. This route covers a total distance of 410km and takes approximately 5.5 hours.

The Zurich – Lucerne Route

Another scenic route involves starting from Bienne and heading towards Zurich. From there, take the A4 towards Lucerne and enjoy the stunning views of Switzerland's mountain ranges. Pass through the picturesque town of Brienz where you can take a break to admire the turquoise waters of Lake Brienz. From there, drive on to Interlaken and continue your journey towards your destination. This route covers a total distance of 389km and takes approximately 6 hours.

The Swiss Jura Route

If you're looking for a route that offers a bit of everything, from stunning Swiss scenery to French countryside, then the Swiss Jura route is perfect for you. Starting from Bienne, head towards Neuchatel, a charming town on the banks of Lake Neuchatel. Next, follow the signs towards Saint-Ursanne, a medieval town near the Swiss-French border. Cross into France and continue your journey through the beautiful countryside, passing through the town of Argentan before reaching your destination. This route covers a total distance of 427km and takes approximately 6 hours.

Pit stops and recommendations

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the sights. If you're travelling with kids, a stop at the Europa Park in Germany is a great option. The park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages and makes for a great day out.

For those interested in history, the Bayeux Tapestry in Normandy is a must-see. This 70-meter-long tapestry depicts the story of William the Conqueror's successful invasion of England in 1066.

If you're a foodie, make sure to try some of the local cuisine along the way. This region of France is famous for its dairy products such as butter, cheese and cream, so indulge in some delicious crepes and galettes, made with fresh ingredients.

Conclusion

While the quickest route is undoubtedly the A5 and A1 motorway, taking the scenic route will allow you to take in some of Switzerland and France's natural beauty and will make your road trip a memorable experience. Make sure to take breaks along the way, explore the towns and villages you pass through, and enjoy the journey.