"Our hiking group is interested in caves and contemporary fortified castles - a hidden and fascinating world! Led by a pleasant bilingual guide, we explored the fortress of Chételat that was used as a forward bunker for the fortified position at Les Rangiers. The equipment, weapons and (inactive) munitions are still there beneath many meters of concrete and rocks. As you descend into the depths of the fortification, you sense the will to resist the German invaders on difficult terrain between 1940 and 1944. After the tour, groups can enjoy an aperitif and a fondue in the austere billet (space for 13 soldiers). This makes it feel like they are really in the bunker but they are also pleased to get back into the open air! We should have got our orders in early!"
Hervé de Weck
Info
The Chételat infantry fortress is built above Asuel, about 50 metres away from the Porrentruy - Delémont cantonal road that runs over the pass of Les Rangiers. It is one of the most advanced fortifications of the position of Les Rangiers built in the Second World War. It was constructed in the rock in less than twelve months and assigned to the troops in June 1940. It is now classified as an object of national importance.
Good to know
There are two ways to reach the fortress:
Important: tours must be booked in advance.
Arsène Plomb
Rue des Lignières 2
2926 Boncourt
T. +41 (0) 32 475 53 30
T. +41 (0) 79 330 18 78
Yves Domont
Impasse des Tilleuls 5
2926 Boncourt
T. +41 (0) 32 475 50 13
T. +41 (0) 78 853 24 11
Hervé de Weck
Rue St-Michel 7
2900 Porrentruy
T. +41 (0) 32 466 52 32
