Gorges de l'Areuse, River canyon in Neuchâtel, Switzerland.
Gorges de l'Areuse is a limestone canyon in the Neuchâtel region where the river has carved deep walls over time, creating a narrow passage bordered by rock faces and vegetation. The valley contains natural pools and small cascades that form as the water moves downstream.
The canyon was carved by the Areuse River over millions of years as it cut through limestone bedrock, shaping the landscape into its current form. In the 1800s, people started building water mills in the gorge to use the river's power.
The gorge contains several hydroelectric plants that represent the industrial development of the Neuchâtel region during the early twentieth century.
The best way to experience the gorge is by walking on marked trails that connect different sections of the valley. The paths can be steep and slippery in places, especially after rain, so sturdy footwear is helpful.
A remarkable limestone arch called Saut de Brot spans across the narrowest part of the gorge, forming a natural bridge that pedestrians can cross. This stone span is an unusual feature that many visitors simply walk past without noticing.
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