Gorgier: Pebble Beach, Menhirs and Architectural History

Gorgier brings together a small pebble beach, the bathing pavilion at Chez-le-Bart, historic buildings and menhirs. This offers a range of options, from spending time by the water to exploring architectural history and taking a longer walk through the forest. The sites differ in their form and history: the bathing pavilion was built in 1907, the Lavoir de Brénaz was first mentioned in 1668, and La ballade des Menhirs du Devens leads to several named menhir attractions.

The bathing pavilion and the washhouse: two types of architecture

The bathing pavilion in Chez-le-Bart was built in 1907 after its predecessor burned down. The municipality of Gorgier later moved it to the port of Chez-le-Bart and had it restored in 2000. It stands on a pagoda-shaped wooden platform and contains separate changing cabins for men and women. Its bathing function and distinctive architectural form are thus part of a clearly dated history.

At the Lavoir de Brénaz, the focus is on a rectangular public washhouse: eight oak posts stand on sloped limestone bases, alongside a two-part cement basin. The washhouse was first mentioned in the community's accounts in 1668. It was restored in 1986 and placed under protection on March 16, 1987. While the bathing pavilion stands out for its pagoda shape and platform, the washhouse is defined by its posts, bases and basin.

Planning La ballade des Menhirs du Devens

The La ballade des Menhirs du Devens trail is 5 km long, takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and is rated easy. There is, however, one specific limitation: the forest roads and paths are not suitable for strollers. The rating and this note relate to different aspects of planning; keep both in mind as you prepare for your outing.

The trail is accessible by train and postbus from Gorgier-Saint-Aubin station. The walk from the station is 2 km, or about 40 minutes. Keep this access time separate from the trail duration: the roughly 40 minutes refers to the walk from the station, while about 1 hour and 20 minutes is the duration of the 5 km tour. Attractions along the trail include the Menhir du Pré-Devens, the Menhirs tronqué and the Grand menhir de la forêt du Devens.

Menhirs and Château de Gorgier

The three Pierres du Guénégou are also among Gorgier's megalithic features. They are partially toppled menhirs at the foot of a hill, which may be man-made. The cautious description of the hill matters: the menhirs are documented, but the hill's artificial origin is uncertain.

The Château de Gorgier offers a different architectural note. The picturesque Neo-Gothic residence stands on a rocky outcrop surrounded by two streams and overlooking the lake. Its Neo-Gothic architecture and its position on the outcrop both shape the impression it makes. Together with the bathing pavilion and the washhouse, it offers a varied view of the town's architectural styles.

Pebble beach and Place de jeux

Plage de Gorgier - Chez-le-Bart is a small pebble beach with a lawn for relaxing and swimming. The pebbles and lawn are two distinct surfaces at this site; if you are planning a day of swimming, check the current conditions before your visit.

Place de jeux de Gorgier is located above the villages of Chez-le-Bart and Gorgier, in green surroundings. It has play equipment for younger and older children, as well as a hammock, benches and a picnic table. This makes it easy to plan both playtime and a place to rest or have a picnic. As the facilities may change, check what is currently available before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Corcelles-Cormondrèche, Peseux NE, Bevaix, Boudry, Cortaillod, Montézillon, Auvernier

Go to the main travel overview: Boudry.