Neuenstadt am Bielersee

Neuenstadt (La Neuveville) lies on the northwestern shore of Lake Biel, about halfway between Biel and Neuchâtel and around 14 kilometres southwest of Biel/Bienne as the crow flies. The town combines a striking historic centre with vineyards, trails through the countryside and activities centred on the lake. You can tailor your stay to culture, outdoor activities or winegrowing.

Old Town, towers and architectural history

The townscape is distinguished by exceptionally consistent architecture. Seven towers and two magnificent fountains are among its notable features. The settlement lies on a narrow strip of shoreline below the foot of the Jura. The municipality also includes a section of the steep southern slope of La Côte and a 4.5-kilometre stretch of Lake Biel shoreline. These include the lakeside hamlet of Schafis, called Chavannes in French, and the high plateau of Montagne de Diesse above it.

Château de Schlossberg was built between 1283 and 1288 and served as the castellan’s residence until the 16th century. It was restored in 1884 and 1931. The history of the Blanche Église probably dates back to an initial religious building in the 8th century. The church was extended several times from the 13th century, especially in the 14th century, and reached its greatest size in the 15th century. The frescoes were created in the second half of the 14th century and at the beginning of the 15th century.

Founded in 1875, the Musée d'Art et d'Histoire is housed in the former town hall, dating from the 14th century. Exhibits include medieval town banners and cannons captured by soldiers from Neuveville from the troops of Charles the Bold at the Battle of Murten in 1476. Guided tours bring the Red Tower, the Square Tower, the Bern Cellar and Market Street to life. Tours require reservations, so check availability in advance.

Trails through vineyards and countryside

The Balade de la Sorcière passes through vineyards and introduces walkers to medicinal plants, scents, trees, stones and water. The Chemin des Vignes is a hiking route from Biel to La Neuveville. Along the way, it offers views of Lake Biel and insights into the work of local winegrowers. For a route with a specified distance, the Nordic walking trail is 8.5 kilometres long: it passes through vineyards and follows a forest path downhill towards Lake Biel. The routes have different focuses; conditions along the way may vary.

The surrounding landscape extends beyond the town centre: the vineyards on Lake Biel stretch from La Neuveville to Alfermée. Several waterfalls lie along the Ruz-de-Vau in the Combe du Pilouvi. The Pilouvi forest reserve can be reached via a hiking route from La Neuveville. Alongside lakeside and vineyard scenery, visitors can therefore also explore wooded areas and streams.

Winegrowing, museums and local experiences

The Musée de la vigne du lac de Bienne is housed in the 1550 building known as “Le Fornel” in the municipality of La Neuveville. The Musée de la vigne focuses on the work of winegrowing, the tools and equipment required, and the craft of cooperage. To learn about wine production, you can combine a visit to the museum with time among the vineyards and on the hiking trails, which offer insights into the work of local winegrowers.

Cave Auberson & fils offers tours, apéritifs and wine tastings featuring regional products and wines from the estate. Check participation and visiting arrangements in advance. In the Old Town, La Cour de Berne serves as a wine cellar for tastings and receptions; a large historic press is also on display there. For these activities, too, it is best to check reservation and visiting arrangements before making plans. The Course des Pavés is an annual sporting event held in La Neuveville. If it matters to your trip, check the date for your intended stay.

Activities on Lake Biel

At Saint-Joux, there is a beach volleyball court, a barbecue area, paddleboard rental, a pump track and table tennis tables. As facility details may change, check the latest information before your visit. The harbour of La Neuveville is a starting point for numerous cruises on the three lakes. Timetables may change, so check departure times if you are planning a boat trip.

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