The distinguishing features of La Brévine’s high valley are its impressive scenery and climatic extremes: it is known as «Switzerland’s Siberia» on account of its harsh and damp winter climate. Winter temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees are not unusual. The lowest temperature in Switzerland was recorded here in 1987: minus 41.8 degrees. This makes the valley of La Brévine an Eldorado for snowshoe trekking and cross-country skiing. Nearby Les Sagnettes has year-round glacial caves at an altitude of a mere 1100 metres.

The Lac des Taillères to the south-west of La Brévine has no tributaries above ground and is fed solely by rainwater and sources beneath the lake. There is no outflow; the water trickles away to re-emerge at the karst source of the Areuse River. The southern shore is bordered by pine trees and the northern shore borders on rolling pastures ideal for summer walks and bathing. In winter, the lake is transformed into a beautiful natural ice rink.

The high valley was first cultivated in the 13th century via the Val de Travers. Today, the municipality of La Brévine has a population of 692, living in several hamlets in a total area of 41 square kilometres. There are several 17th to 19th century farmhouses of historic interest, and there are three signposted trails to help visitors explore the many scenic and historic facets of this widespread valley settlement.