Regional activities

Sage, an open window on nature. The nature reserves at the north-eastern end of Lake Neuchâtel are a wildlife sanctuary unique in Switzerland.
Many rare and endangered bird species breed in these reserves, and stop over during migration or winter.

The center raises public awareness of the region’s natural riches. The main objectives are to convince the public of the importance of riparian natural environments, and to create new habitats favourable to wild flora and fauna, especially for the green tree frog and kingfisher.

This hike combines three themed trails, offering exceptional views of the Alps, Three Lakes and Jura from every angle.
It can be done from Sugiez station, Praz or Môtier harbours and follows the wine trail, then, in Praz, the botanical trail which, after a relatively steep climb, leads to the summit of Mont Vully, where a breathtaking view awaits the visitor.

the capital of Helvetia was Aventicum, today known as Avenches. The many ruins still bear witness to the grandeur of this ancient civilization.
Elevated to the status of a colony under the Emperor’s protection, the Romanized city was the capital of the Helvetian people, with a population of 20,000. Its influence extended far and wide, from north to south of the Alps. Evidence of this sumptuous and flourishing era can still be seen today, when you visit the remains of the imposing monuments of the Roman Site and the impressive collection of objects in the Roman Museum.

If Switzerland is the land of the horse, Avenches is its capital. The breeding and keeping of horses in the region dates back to Celtic times, and has continued to develop ever since.
The Swiss National Equestrian Institute, founded in Avenches in 1898, is dedicated to the conservation of the only surviving breed of Swiss horse, the Franches-Montagnes. As a center of expertise, research and equine medicine, IENA offers visitors the chance to discover its various missions and the world of the horse through an educational trail accessible all year round.

A city to discover… and experience!
Push open the doors to the past and let yourself be tempted by a stroll through the centuries, from the Middle Ages to the present day! Avenches is a delight for history and architecture buffs as well as strollers and romantics: how can you resist the charm of the city, its towers and castle? A magnificent historic setting for activities that also know how to be contemporary…

The Museum holds over 525,000 objects – mainly regional archaeological finds, with a chronological spectrum extending from the Middle Palaeolithic to modern times, including many national and international reference collections.

Under several domes, the Papiliorama takes you into a tropical climate where all kinds of animals, plants, insects and, of course, butterflies live side by side.
More than 60 species of butterflies from all over the world frolic in a colorful tropical environment. As you pass through the Nocturama, you’ll catch a glimpse of nocturnal animals such as night monkeys, sloths, Brazilian porcupines and Cape aardvarks. The Jungle Trek takes you through an authentic rainforest of multicolored birds, iguanas and peccaries, with a seven-meter-high bridge to the treetops.

The small medieval town of Murten, on the south-eastern shore of the lake of the same name, has preserved its authentic character, with its picturesque old town alleys and charming arcades. Situated on the French-German language border, the town boasts a beautiful lakeside promenade with a wide range of water sports, as well as a wealth of cultural activities and excursions.

Situated on the water’s edge, dominated by the Château and the Collégiale, this thousand-year-old city built of yellow stone offers a maze of narrow pedestrian streets that lead visitors from discovery to discovery.

Neuchâtel is an unspoilt gem with medieval origins. Boasting a secular heritage, the town celebrated its millennium in 2011, and its ideal location on the eponymous lake, narrow cobbled streets and lively pedestrian zone immerse visitors in a medieval dream. Not-to-be-missed landmarks include the Château and Collégiale, Hôtel DuPeyrou, Place des Halles and Hôtel de Ville.