Lake Neuchâtel
Neuchâtel, Switzerland
While it’s no match in size for mighty Lake Geneva just to the south, Lake Neuchâtel stakes the claim of Switzerland’s largest lake, as it’s the only one sitting entirely within the country’s borders. Whether you see it as big or small, it’s undeniably scenic, framed by the Jura Mountains and vineyards to the north, and sandy beaches and marshlands to the south.
The basics
The main tourist towns on the lake are Yverdon-Les-Bains, Estavayer, Grandson, and Neuchâtel, and these are linked up by boats in the warmer months. Beaches can be found all around the water’s perimeter, though there are more sandy stretches on the southern side of the lake.
The water itself is a launching pad for most activities here; sailing, swimming, and other water sports take place in the summer, while cycling and hiking are popular year-round.
Things to know before you go
French is the official language in the Neuchâtel region, which is where most of the lake lies. German and English are also widely spoken.
Use the Neuchâtel Tourist Card for free public transportation, select boat cruises, and museum entry in the canton of Neuchâtel.
For water sports, consider staying in Estavayer. The town has its own water-sports center, and is a renowned base for water skiing.
How to get there
Most Lake Neuchâtel cruises depart from Neuchâtel town, on the northwest tip of the lake. You can reach it within a couple of hours by rail or road from Geneva, Bern, Basel, or Zurich. Around the town, you’ll no find no shortage of lake beaches to choose from, some of which are walkable or easy to reach by bike or public transportation. Many hotels give overnight visitors a Neuchâtel Tourist Card, which provides free public transportation all around the canton.
When to get there
The lake has more visitors in the sunny summer months, when the water reaches a less frosty temperature for those who want to swim. While some cruises on Lake Neuchâtel take place year-round, the popular Three Lake Cruises, which also connects the lakes Biel and Murten via rivers, is only a summertime offering. Top events to look out for include the Estivale Open Air music festival in August and the Neuchâtel Grape Harvest Festival in September.
Views from Chaumont
For the best high-up views that span the lake, head to the Chaumont summit. After a 15-minute ride up La Coudre Funicular from Neuchâtel town, you’ll reach an altitude of about 3,940 feet (1,200 meters), for vistas that encompass both lake and mountains. The funicular is free with the Neuchâtel Tourist Card.
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