The Absinthe Route
The Route de l’Absinthe is a cross-border itinerary linking the emblematic absinthe sites between Pontarlier and the Val-de-Travers.
Born from a shared heritage between France and Switzerland, it brings together distilleries, museums, artisans, accommodations, restaurants, and heritage sites within a single network.
More than a tourist route, the Route de l’Absinthe invites visitors to discover the landscapes, expertise, and people who continue to keep the history of the Green Fairy alive.
Explore the places, plan your visit, and discover a truly unique territory.
History of Absinthe
Between France and Switzerland, a unique story shaped by time.
Absinthe, known as the Green Fairy, originated in Couvet, in the Val-de-Travers. Rapidly adopted and distributed, it experienced remarkable industrial growth in Pontarlier, which became one of the world’s leading centres of absinthe production during the 19th century.
Highly popular throughout Europe, absinthe left a lasting mark on the culture of its time before being banned at the beginning of the 20th century.
After nearly a century of clandestine production and the discreet transmission of traditional know-how, absinthe gradually returned in the early 2000s and reclaimed its place within its homeland.
Today, the Route de l’Absinthe invites visitors to rediscover this remarkable story through its landscapes, traditions, and the people who continue to shape its future
Did You Know
A single border crossing
Since its origins, absinthe has always been a shared story between France and Switzerland. Born in the Val-de-Travers and developed on a large scale in Pontarlier, absinthe shaped the history of two territories that are now united through the Route de l’Absinthe. This cross-border itinerary brings together nearly 80 places to discover, including distilleries, museums, artisans, accommodations, restaurants, heritage sites, and remarkable landscapes. Whether on foot, by bicycle, or by car, visitors can explore the Route at their own pace and experience a living heritage that continues to thrive today. Follow the Route de l’Absinthe on social media to discover the latest news, events, and stories throughout the year.
Ambassadors
The Ambassadors of the Absinthe Route are prominent figures from a variety of fields—culture, crafts, tourism, media, heritage, institutions, and gastronomy—who share a special connection with the Absinthe Region. Through their backgrounds and their attachment to the region, they help bring to life and promote the history, craftsmanship, and culture of absinthe in both Switzerland and France.
