Swimming Lake
Although it is the smallest of the three Jura foothill lakes, Lake Murten — in French, Lac de Morat — still has a lot to offer. Nestled in a beautiful landscape, this small neighbor of Lake Neuchâtel and Lake Biel lies within the Swiss cantons of Fribourg and Vaud. Enjoy a refreshing swim with a view of the medieval town of Murten or along the "Fribourg Riviera" with its vineyards on Mont Vully. You can even explore a small island here: La Grande Île, about 0.1 hectares in size, is located approximately 40 meters from the northern shore near Guévaux.
Swimming Fun at Lake Murten
Thanks to its shallow depth, Lake Murten warms up quickly, offering excellent swimming conditions from spring through autumn. All around the lake, you’ll find numerous public beaches and bathing areas that invite you to cool off. Afterwards, you can relax on the sunbathing lawns and soak up the sun. Some of the swimming spots are equipped with sanitary facilities such as showers and toilets. Those who want to have a picnic or barbecue will also find various fire pits along the shore that are perfect for it.
Discovering Lake Murten by Boat
A great way to explore the three Jura lakes by water is on a boat tour. A trip on Lake Murten takes about an hour. If you'd like to go further, you can cruise through the Broye Canal to Lake Neuchâtel (just under two hours). The Three Lakes Tour takes you on a four-hour journey through the Broye Canal into Lake Neuchâtel, then continues through the Zihl Canal and Lake Biel all the way to the town of Biel.
Sailing Area
Thanks to the three canals that connect the Jura lakes, sailors have access to an extensive sailing area beyond just Lake Murten.
Things to do
A Paradise for Water Lovers!
There are countless ways to explore the lake. You can go for a swim or try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding. For more action, there's windsurfing, kitesurfing, and wakeboarding. If you’d like to discover the lake by boat, you can choose between kayaking, pedal boats, or rowboats. Sailing is also an option. Hobby and sport anglers can enjoy fishing in Lake Murten as well.
Around Lake Murten
The rest of the recreational offerings leave nothing to be desired. Little ones can have fun at the playgrounds along the lake, while older kids and adults can enjoy a game of beach volleyball. The stunning landscape invites you to go cycling or take long walks. A lovely route leads from Murten along the reed belt to the opposite lakeshore, located in the wine-growing region of Mont Vully. Here, you can stroll through charming wine villages and stop in at one of the many wine cellars. The Murtensee Trail also circles the entire lake.
The small town of Murten, which gave the lake its name, is particularly worth seeing. It sits on a small hill on the southeastern shore. With its picturesque old town alleys, cozy arcades, and beautiful lakeside promenade, it radiates vacation charm and is a must for romantics!
Hiking and Cycling in the Vully Hills
For a longer excursion, the Vully hill range is highly recommended. This area between Lake Murten and Lake Neuchâtel offers unique panoramic views over the lakes, the Jura Mountains, and the Alps. Delicious grapes grow on the hillsides and are turned into refreshing white wine. You can learn more along the Vineyard Trail. A side trip to the nearby Grande Cariçaie (Great Marsh) is also worthwhile. On the Vegetable Trail through the so-called “vegetable garden of Switzerland,” you'll discover 60 different types of produce. A highlight for cyclists is the SlowUp Murtensee. On this day in April, the road around the lake is reserved for non-motorized traffic. Around 30,000 cyclists, inline skaters, and pedestrians can then enjoy a car-free tour around the lake.
Interesting facts
- With an area of 2,280 ha, Murtensee (Lac de Morat) is the largest swimming lake / beach in Switzerland.
- The swimming lake / beach's average water temperature during the summer season is 20 °C. The swimming lake / beach is normally warmest during August with an average water temperature of 23 °C. See the currently warmest Swimming Lakes / Beaches in Switzerland.
- The swimming lake permits to bring a dog along.
- There’s no need to be starving! A kiosk and a restaurant cater for all tastes and needs.
- Families will love the nearby playground, ensuring some quality time for the parents and activity time for their kids.
- There is a campground close to the Swimming Lake. Enjoy a soothing campfire in provided fire pits at the water’s edge of the beautiful Swimming Lake.
- There are numerous parking facilities nearby. Restrooms where you may also get changed are available at the Swimming Lake.
Video about Swimming Lake Murtensee (Lac de Morat)
How to get there
By Car:
From Bern or Lausanne, Lake Murten is easily accessible via the A1 motorway, which runs near the lake. Take exit 29 (Murten), and from there, federal road B1 will lead you along the southeastern shore to the towns of Muntelier, Murten, Meyriez, Greng, and Faoug.
By Public Transport:
If you're traveling by train or regional S-Bahn, you can get off at the stations Sugiez, Muntelier-Löwenberg, or Murten. The stations are only a few hundred meters from the lakeshore.