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Lake Biel
Lake Biel
Lake Biel is located in western Switzerland. It is one of the three big lakes in the Jura mountain area, the other two being Lake Murten and Lake Neuchatel. It has an area of around 40 sq. km, length of 15 km and maximum depth of 74 m. The main tributaries are the rivers Zihl, Aar and Twanbach. The biggest city on the shores of Lake Biel is Biel. Jean-Jacques Rousseau once lived on the island of St. Peter. Today this island is a popular vacation area. It is located close to Erlach, a town in the canton of Bern.

Wine tasting
There are wine tasting festivals and events in the lake region on a regular basis. Groups, couples and individuals are welcome to taste and discuss the regional wines. You can purchase bottles from the growers cellars. At the center of the wine-growing region is the recently restored Pfropfhsli, a century-old building that hosts wine-related events. Over 250 wines of superior quality are produced in the lake region. The wines include Pinot noir, Pinot gris, Sauvignon blanc, Gewrztraminer, Riesling, Blanc de noirs and Chardonnay. Other liquors produced in the area include Marc and Lie brandy, which are suitable as a gift to take home.

Hoppy GPS audio tour guide
This is the first GPS guide for tourists in the country, a complete novelty. The device is connected to your vehicle and provides commentary on attractions in the area of Lake Biel, tourism, history, food, leisure, sports, the economy and other facets of life. It is very simple just switch on the guide, choose a language and enjoy! The commentaries are triggered by satellite when you approach a point of interest.

Recreation
Cycling and boating are popular activities in the Swiss Lake District. If you choose a cycling tour around the lake you will pass by tranquil villages, set amidst marvelous scenery. You can start from the railway station in Biel in the direction of Lake Neuchatel, pass Twann 10 km later, cycle past La Neuveville, Le Landeron and Erlach. The final stretch (to Erlach) is dangerous, so keep that in mind. Biel is a great jump-off point for cruises on Lake Biel, Lake Murten and Lake Neuchatel. The sailing season is from June to September. Most boats have eateries, and it is recommended that you reserve a table. Two popular options are the Biel-Erlach cruise and the Three Lakes Tour. The latter is exceptionally scenic. It begins at 9 am. You will cross Lake Biel, a canal to Lake Neuchatel, another canal and then Lake Murten before you arrive in Murten around noon. The return trip is a little longer. You will reach Biel at 18.00. Other popular pastimes around Lake Biel are hiking and walking.

Biel
Biel is an officially bilingual city (French and German). Its French name is Bienne. Its population is comprised of 150 nationalities. The main industries are manufacture of machinery and watchmaking. Biel was built in the 11th century and received city rights in 1275. It was under the authority of Basel Bishopric for centuries. Its alliance with Bern was made permanent in the mid-1300s. Biel was occupied by French troops in 1798. After the fall of Napoleon it became part of Bern canton. It is 30 minutes away from Bern by train. Attractions in Biel include a 15th century Gothic church, the 16th century town hall, Place du Ring, the City Park, and the majestic La Suze River. The sixth Swiss national exposition Expo 02 took place here in 2002. It was located on the shores of Lake Biel, Lake Murten and Lake Neuchatel.


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