Lake Murten Region
The Lake Murten region (Region Murtensee) lies in western Switzerland in the canton of Fribourg, around the medieval town of Murten on the shores of Lake Murten. It is a largely rural, lowland area set in the Three Lakes region between Lake Murten, Lake Neuchâtel and Lake Biel, dominated by the lake, the vineyards of the Vully and the vegetable fields of the Seeland. The historic old town of Murten, with its almost fully preserved ring wall, forms the cultural and tourist heart of the region, while the villages of Avenches, Kerzers and the Vully wine region add historical and natural character. The area is known for its Roman heritage in Avenches, its wine tourism, its beaches and its many outdoor activities. Murten lies at the centre of the region and is easily reached from the cities of Bern, Fribourg and Neuchâtel.
Summer activities
In summer the Lake Murten region is a paradise for water sports and outdoor activities. Visitors can swim at the beaches around the lake, including the longest natural freshwater sand beach in Europe at Salavaux, or try windsurfing, wakeboarding, stand-up paddling and kayaking at the La Bise Noire water sports centre. Boat trips on the lake and the Three Lakes region are popular, as are cycling tours around the lake, the vegetable trail through the Seeland and hikes through the vineyards of the Vully and up Mont Vully. Numerous picnic and barbecue spots, family treasure hunts and the Papiliorama tropical gardens round out the summer offer.
Winter activities
In winter Murten transforms into a city of light. The Murten Licht-Festival bathes the historic old town and the lakeshore in glowing installations, projections and sound worlds, while the immersive Dine and Light culinary experiences combine light art with gastronomy. The Circuit Secret Murten Licht opens hidden rooms with light installations, and ice skating in the old town adds to the winter atmosphere. The region is not a winter sports destination, but rather a place for atmospheric light experiences and winter walks.
Culture and entertainment
The Lake Murten region has a rich cultural life centred on the medieval town of Murten and the Roman heritage of Avenches. The Murten Classics summer festival presents up to 30 classical concerts in the castle courtyard and other venues, while the Avenches Tattoo and Avenches Openair bring music festivals to the region. The old town of Murten offers guided tours, treasure hunts and the immersive Circuit Secret Murten Licht, and the story of the 1476 Battle of Murten is kept alive through museums, monuments and commemorations. Bars and music venues in the old town provide a lively nightlife.
