98 times, clandestinely, Michel Hollard crossed the border to deliver military information to the Allies in Switzerland.
The content of his messages allowed the discovery of most of the Hitler's V1 missile launching bases. Intended for destroy London, these missiles were put out of action by the Allies at the beginning of 1944.
Every border crossing was an act of resistance and danger. Michel Hollard walked this path 98 times, helping to save London whose impact was decisive on the outcome of the war.
The path follows the authentic route of Michel Hollard which left from the hamlet of Louadey, located in the valley of Derrière-le-Mont, above Morteau, up to its point of entry into Switzerland, in the village of La Brévine.
If part of the path was hidden from view under the forest cover, crossing the border represented a real dangerThe valley was watched by German patrols and their dogs. No crossing would have been possible without the complicity of the Cuenot familyTheir farm, placed in a slight overhang, offered a ideal observation postToday it has become an inn that preserves historical memories of the time.
To walk this path is also to remember the memory of the resistance smugglers of the Val de MorteauAlong the route, a stele pays homage to them.
The hiking route is done in 4h about in round trip.
The authentic path connects Louadey in the commune of Montlebon in La Brévine in Switzerland, a distance of 6,8 km (400 m elevation gain).
At each start of the trail, welcome signs offer a general summary, a map and the possibility of downloading all the content via QR codes. Along the way, 12 illustrated panels allow to immerse yourself in this human and resistant adventure.
In Louadey,
next to Derrière-le-Mont in the commune of Montlebon
At the Châteleu inn,
Place called Vieux Châteleu in the commune of Grand'combe-Châteleu for an intermediate departure.
At La Brévine
in Swizterland.
– The 3 starting points offer a parking.
- An experienced management pedestrian junction tagged was created Swiss side from Lac des Taillères (parking and public restrooms) to Chobert. It adds 3,4 km to the hike without elevation gain, through the meadows.
– It is possible to eat:
→ to theChâteleu Inn “At the Heart of Dreams”, intermediate starting point.
→ at La Brévine.
Download the route of the Chemin Michel Hollard
To best support you during your journey along the Michel Hollard path, a comprehensive and very useful leaflet is available in our offices. de Morteau, from Maîche et of Saint-Hippolyte.
Find the marked hikes of Pays Horloger as well as our selections by sector and theme.