Faoug on Lake Murten: Nature, Trails and History

Faoug is situated on slightly elevated ground on the southern shore of Lake Murten in the Swiss Plateau. The village offers a stay that can be shaped around your interests in the lake, landscape, trails or history. Its surroundings include fields, vineyard-covered hills and natural lakeshore areas; the beach and a landing stage for LNM excursions are also practical starting points for planning your trip.

Landscape and nature in Faoug

The Chandon estuary in Faoug is exceptionally rich in biodiversity. Part of Faoug is listed in the national inventory of floodplain areas as a breeding site for amphibians and birds. The landscape around Faoug also includes the shores of Lake Murten, fields, vineyard-covered hills and natural lakeshore areas. This means that both the lakeside location and the natural areas nearby can be considered when planning your trip.

Local history and cultural heritage

The first documentary references to Faoug date from the Middle Ages; historically, the village was shaped by agriculture and fishing. Archaeological evidence adds several periods to this picture. Sixteen cremation graves from Roman times were excavated at the Marais de Clavaleyres necropolis. The Hallstatt-period settlement of Derrière le Channey yielded the ground plan of a house with interior walls and a carefully constructed hearth. In 1989, the course of a major Roman road was also confirmed in Faoug; it leaves the urban area of Avenches in a north-easterly direction. The house plan, graves and road alignment represent different kinds of archaeological evidence; the latter two date from Roman times.

The Domaine Cornaz offers another form of cultural heritage. It was placed under heritage protection for its preservation and conservation; the corresponding classification decision was published in 2026. The Domaine is a monumental ensemble of three buildings arranged in a U shape around a courtyard. Its rich decoration and the notable interventions of architect Henri Perregaux account for its exceptional heritage qualities. Architecture and archaeological finds give Faoug’s history distinct points of focus.

Boat trips and hikes

The landing stage in Faoug offers LNM excursions on Lake Murten, Lake Neuchâtel and Lake Biel. If you are planning a trip, check the timetable for your travel date.

The two hikes described also differ in their routes: “De Faoug à Morat” starts at Faoug railway station and passes through the Bois de Mottey. “Morat–Avenches” runs via the Port de Faoug to the Camping-plage d’Avenches. When planning, you can therefore choose between a route through the Bois de Mottey and one that takes in the Port de Faoug and the named destination near Avenches. As routes may change, check the current route before setting out. Other leisure activities in the area include walks, water sports and cycling.

Beach and local event

Faoug’s beach is accessible by public transport. The facilities include changing rooms, sanitary facilities, a large sports field, a children’s playground and the old harbour. As transport connections and facility details may change, check them before your visit.

Faoug’s annual Youth Festival day takes place at the municipal beach. It is one of the recurring local traditions and offers another point of reference when planning a stay.

Discover more destinations: Payerne, Cremin, Vers-Chez-Perrin, Corcelles-le-Jorat, Chevroux, Dompierre VD, Vully-Les-Lacs, Cudrefin

For the overview of the wider region: Broye-Vully.