Erlach on Lake Biel: Old Town, Wine and Island Trails

Erlach lies on the western shore of Lake Biel. Picturesque lanes and squares, the castle and its proximity to St. Peter’s Island shape the town. Your interests will help you choose what to explore: history and wine take centre stage in the town, while the lake and island add water activities and trails through nature.

Historic townscape and sightseeing

Erlach Castle was built in the late 11th century by Count Burkhard of Fenis to protect the road at the upper end of Lake Biel. Together with the church and town hall, it shapes the historic townscape and is one of the oldest castles in the Canton of Bern. The church also has a long history: its origins predate those of the castle and old town, and it was first mentioned in writing in 1185. The church tower houses three bells dating from 1404, 1568 and 1579.

The church is open at all times and can be visited. The conditions for visiting the Erlach Museum in the castle are different: visits are only possible as part of a guided tour, including during official opening hours. The small museum and the old prison tower can be visited on request. The collection includes historically valuable objects, pictures, photographs and items from various fields of activity of former residents. A one-hour guided tour takes you through the old town, its picturesque lanes, the exterior of the castle and its garden; reservations are required.

The Mayhaus Gallery regularly exhibits contemporary art in the historic rooms of the former patrician house of the Von May family. Erlach also hosts performances, festivals and concerts every year. One recurring tradition is the Läset-Sunntige, held on the first and second weekends after the Swiss Day of Prayer and Repentance, usually in late September or early October. The programme includes a large parade, a market, open wine cellars, music and other events. The exact dates vary from year to year.

Wine and regional specialities

Wine-making is also part of the landscape. Molasse soils predominate in the Erlach region and on St. Peter’s Island. The vineyards benefit from the warmth stored in the soil by the lake and from the microclimate of the terraces. Information panels along the Räbluskurve educational trail share insights about wine and vines. Private horse-drawn carriage rides are also offered along the vineyards; confirm availability in advance.

Hasenlauf vineyard offers its full range of wines at its tasting and sales outlet in the town of Erlach. As opening arrangements may change, it is advisable to check visiting options in advance. Local specialities include Fischknusperli (crispy fish bites) and Treberwurst, a sausage made with grape pomace. The best way to find out which restaurants currently serve these dishes is to ask locally or check their menus.

Lake Biel and St. Peter’s Island

Lake Biel offers various options for excursions on the water. Pedal boats can be rented for trips on the lake, while you can paddle from Erlach to Biel by canoe or kayak. A paddle around St. Peter’s Island or at sunset is also described. A shuttle runs from Erlach to the island’s southern landing stage and can carry up to eleven people. Check current timetables and operating details before travelling.

One starting point for the 6 km island trail is at the beginning of the Heidenweg in Erlach. On St. Peter’s Island, the trail passes eleven interactive stations sharing information about flora, fauna and cultural history. Nearby are St. Peter’s Island and its Heidenweg, designated as a nature reserve and as a waterbird and migratory bird sanctuary of national importance. Its combination of information about nature and history makes the island trail a different way to discover the area than a boat trip.

The beach also offers various facilities: the sunbathing lawn has a boules court, a table tennis table and a beach volleyball court. The beach slopes gently, making it suitable for younger children to swim safely.

Jolimont, nature and other activities

The picturesque path up to Jolimont offers views of Erlach and St. Peter’s Island. Another hike leads from Ins over Jolimont to Erlach. In the forest on Jolimont, you can observe roe deer and foxes in their natural habitat. The geological and archaeological heritage includes erratic boulders, Bronze Age and early Celtic burial mounds, and cup stones on Jolimont and near Teufelsburdi. There is also a picnic and barbecue area at Tüfelsburdi, with a table and benches.

Those interested in native plants can book an activity in Erlach to learn about wild plants and their diversity; dates may vary. Guided tours of the bunkers are also available. Check dates and access arrangements in advance. The options therefore vary depending on your interests, from a guided tour of the town and its historic sights to activities by the lake or in the countryside.

Getting there and planning

Erlach is accessible by public transport, particularly by post bus or boat. Check the timetables before travelling. For your planning, it is also worth confirming in good time the dates of recurring events, visiting options at the winery and availability for bookable activities.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Erlach, Interlaken, Seftigen, Bern, Neuenstadt, Signau, Courtelary, Frutigen.

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