Lake Murten
Lake Murten is located in the Bern Lake District in western Switzerland. It is the smallest of the three lakes in the Jura mountain region, the other two being Lake Neuchatel and Lake Biel. The lake was named after the town of Murten, located on its southern shores.
Lake Murten has an area of around 23 sq. km. It extends over the territories of cantons Vaud and Fribourg. The River Broye is the main tributary. The Broye Canal is the link between Lake Murten and Lake Neuchatel.
Sports
Lake Murten is a popular destination for water sport enthusiasts. You can sunbathe by Pantschau harbor and take a dip in the lake. Options in the lakeside include petanque, mini-golf, tennis, and beach volleyball. Other possibilities in the summer are hiking, mountain biking, and cycling. In the winter you can go skiing, Nordic walking, sledging, or snowshoeing.
Murten and the greater area are the perfect location for leisure hiking. An extensive network of summer hiking trails is available. Bike access is very easy, and you will enjoy getting around on two wheels. The total length of the cycling routes in the area exceeds 500 km. The lively towns of Murten, Gruyeres and Fribourg ensure an exciting trip. You can choose a route through these towns or any other route you wish. When in Gruyeres, dont forget to taste the world-famous Gruyeres cheese. In the summer many welcoming alpine restaurants beckon you to take a relaxing break.
The snow-capped peaks of the Fribourg Pre-Alps are waiting to be explored. The best ski runs are in the area of Gruyere, but if you prefer snowshoeing you are guaranteed a great time at Les Paccots. You will be supplied with a map to guide you along the run you choose. All routes are signposted.
Many tourists opt for Nordic walking in the quaint mountain village of Charmey. You can spend a pleasant weekend in the forests of Gruyere, enjoy the fresh air and stroll through idyllic green pastures.
Attractions and events
The Vully vineyards are strategically located between the lakes of Murten, Biel and Neuchatel. They take up a large portion of the slope of Mount Vully more than 100 hectares. Overlooking Lake Murten, which guarantees a pleasant mild climate, this area is home to 14 wine growers. Vegetable fields are cultivated on the other side of Mount Vully. The nature reserves in this area offer peaceful moments to nature lovers. You will enjoy a panoramic view of the region from the summit on the south face of Mount Vully. Lake Murten and the plateau are at the fore of the majestic Alps. You can also see the imposing Jura range from the north face of the Vully.
You should combine your vacation at Lake Murten with a visit to Avenches, a national heritage site near the town of Murten. In Roman times it was the capital of Helvetia with a population of 20 000. It was originally called Aventicum. There are many historical attractions here, such as the Roman amphitheatre, hosting many spectacular performances, Tornallaz Tower, the Eastern Gate, and the Cigognier column. You can see a valuable collection of Gallo-Roman artifacts at the Roman Museum in the Middle Age Tower of relics. The highlight is a bust of Emperor Marcus Aurelius.
The Avenches Amphitheatre hosts many major annual events, of which the most notable are the Opera Festival and Rock Oz'Arenes. The Opera Festival was established in 1995 and has attracted 50 000 visitors each year since. All are delighted by the superior quality of the productions and the enchantment characterizing the venue.
The rock festival is the smallest of the big international festivals of this type. Every year world-class musicians perform at this magical site.
The first Equestrian Sports Center in the country was founded in Avenches in 1999. Spreading over 142 hectares, it has top-of-the-line infrastructure for dressage, jumping, and horse driving, as well as a racecourse for trot and gallop. Many races with bets occur weekly, making Avenches the number one equestrian center in the country.
The Papiliorama - Tropical Garden in Kerzers features a collection of over 100 colorful tropical butterflies, which fly unperturbed around the amazing garden. Other species of flora and fauna in the garden include water lilies, hummingbirds and fish. The nocturnal fauna will fascinate you. Reptiles, invertebrates, mammals, and amphibians bask in the moonlight.
The oldest building in the area of Lake Murten is the 3-century old Jerisberghof farm museum. You can see homemade craft items and old farm equipment. Jerisberghof can be accessed from the road to Kerzers.
Another popular destination outside of Murten itself is the village of Romont. It enjoys international renown for its national Stained Glass Window Museum, displaying windows by master crafters like Yoki, J. Bazaine, Anselmo, S. de Castro, and B. Clarke. The museum workshop is an ethereal universe of light and color set in a medieval atmosphere.
Murten
The town of Murten has many landmarks and a fascinating heritage. Founded over eight centuries ago, this town is difficult to hide from tourists. Its picturesque downtown area, mesmerizing castle, Baroque architecture and wonderful setting will open your eyes to a new world.
Murten lies on the language border, and most of its inhabitants are bilingual. It is the main city of the Fribourg lake region. Locals often play pentanque in front of the citys famous landmark, the Berntor. Its lakeside promenade is perfect for shopping, strolling, people watching or simply relishing the sights. Many of the towns eateries serve excellent regional specialties. In the evening you can enjoy the unforgettable sunsets over the lake, the Jura and the Vully. You can also visit one of Murtens lively nightclubs.
Just below Murten Castle is Murten Mill, a historical museum with special exhibits. It was built in 1524. Murten hosts an annual event, the Murten Classics Festival with concerts in Murten Castle court, in various churches or in beautiful settings at the lakeside.
The Main Street of Murten offers great shopping opportunities. You will savor the Baroque architecture and splendid arcades.