Intro

Sun, sand and – shores: on the southern shore of Lake Neuchâtel, summer brings a holiday feeling. This area, which is rich in biodiversity and mostly protected, has several bathing beaches that can compete with well-known beaches worldwide thanks to the white sandy beaches, turquoise-blue waters and water sports activities on offer.

The southern shore of Lake Neuchâtel is generally visited by two kinds of people: conservationists and sun worshippers. After all, the southern part of Lake Neuchâtel is home to the largest lakeshore wetland and bird paradise in Switzerland (tip: visit the Grande Cariçaie together with biologists) – as well as several of the most beautiful natural sandy beaches in Switzerland. In summer, “beach-hopping” around the medieval village of Estavayer-le-Lac is all about swimming, sunbathing and water sports.

Beach of Cheyres

Just a few minutes’ walk from Cheyres train station and nestled between the nature reserve and the harbour is the beach of Cheyres. The popular public bathing beach makes for the perfect holiday atmosphere with its fine white sand beach, sweeping views of the lake and nearby nature trails. The beach has a restaurant, beach volleyball court, barbecue, picnic table and showers.

“Lacustres” beach, Estavayer-le-Lac

“Lacustres” beach is just a short walk from the Estavayer-le-Lac train station and has a sunbathing lawn and a sandy beach. The path into the refreshing water leads either via the shore directly or via the long wooden jetty, which is also a perfect spot from which to admire the spectacular sunsets. Tip: sip a cocktail between palm trees at the Ripper Bar while enjoying the expanse of Lake Neuchâtel under a straw parasol. 

La Nouvelle Plage, Estavayer-le-Lac

The longest water skiing lift in Switzerland, pedalos, sailing – La Nouvelle Plage offers one of Switzerland’s largest water sports centres. The family beach also has jetties, slides, bars and a campsite. Guests can choose between shady sunbathing areas and a fine sandy beach. The small bay is a great place to cool off. Tip: actively explore the surroundings by pedalo and enjoy wonderful views of the Château de Chenaux.

The beach of Gletterens

It almost feels like the seaside: the beach of Gletterens is a real gem. Fine white sand, a natural reed belt and turquoise-blue waters make this beach in the middle of the nature reserve a wonderful place to retreat to. Getting into the water is easy, and the refreshment is worth its weight in gold. The colourful beach huts are reminiscent of a picturesque beachfront in the north.

The beach of Portalban

The beach of Portalban can be found between the campsite and the harbour, and impresses with a large sandy beach that leads directly into the shimmering pale-blue water. The beach is a particularly popular spot for kitesurfing, but also has a beach volleyball court. Gastronomy, sports and relaxation all come together here. From the “Portalban, Village” bus stop, the beach can be reached in just a few minutes.

How to get there

  • By public transport: Start from the Estavayer-le-Lac train station (which has regular connections with Fribourg/Freiburg and Bern). To the timetable From the Estavayer-le-Lac train station, the route continues on foot or by public transport, depending on the beach.
  • By private transport: Parking is available at all beaches. The beaches are just a few minutes’ drive apart. 

General information

Show Technical information content
Season
June - August
Time required
2 to 4 hours (half day)
Suitable for
Children, Families, Groups, Individual, Women only, Couples
Accessible
Partially wheelchair accessible

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Contact

Association Touristique de la Broye
Rue de l'Hôtel-de-Ville 5
1470  Estavayer-le-Lac
Switzerland

Phone  +41 (0)26 301 60 30
tourisme@estavayerlelac.ch
estavayerlelac.ch
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Overview

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Overview
Estavayer-le-Lac
Region of Fribourg
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Contact

Association Touristique de la Broye
Rue de l'Hôtel-de-Ville 5
1470 Estavayer-le-Lac
Phone  +41 (0)26 301 60 30
estavayerlelac.ch
Show Route

Travel information: Estavayer-le-Lac