Neuenstadt (La Neuveville) lies on the northwestern shore of Lake Biel, roughly halfway between Biel and Neuchâtel and around 14 km southwest of Biel/Bienne as the crow flies. The settlement stretches along a narrow strip of shore below the foot of the Jura. The municipality also includes the steep southern slope of La Côte and a 4.5 km stretch along the lake. When planning your trip, you can therefore explore the area’s history, vineyards and lakeside landscape as distinct themes.
Old Town and Architectural History
Seven towers, two fountains and exceptionally uniform architecture shape the townscape. Château de Schlossberg was built between 1283 and 1288 and served as the castellan’s residence until the 16th century. It was restored in 1884 and 1931. The Blanche Église has a longer building history: the first religious building on this site was probably built in the 8th century. From the 13th century onward, especially in the 14th century, the church was extended several times; it reached its greatest extent in the 15th century. The frescoes in the Blanche Église were created in the second half of the 14th century and the beginning of the 15th century.
The Musée d'Art et d'Histoire was founded in 1875 and is housed in the former town hall, dating from the 14th century. Exhibits include medieval town banners and cannons seized from the troops of Charles the Bold by soldiers from Neuenstadt at the Battle of Murten in 1476. The museum complements the town’s architectural heritage with insights into its history and tangible evidence from the past. Guided tours bring places such as the Red Tower, the Square Tower, the Bern cellar and Market Street to life; reservations are subject to availability.
Vineyards, Trails and the Lake
For a botanical walk, the Balade de la Sorcière leads through vineyards. Along the way, you’ll learn about medicinal plants, scents, trees, stones and water. The Chemin des Vignes, by contrast, runs from Biel to La Neuveville, combining views of Lake Biel with insights into the work of local winegrowers. If you’re looking for a route with a stated distance, the Nordic walking trail offers a clear option: it is 8.5 km long, passes through vineyards and follows a forest path downhill towards Lake Biel.
Combe du Pilouvi offers a different natural highlight: several waterfalls line the Ruz-de-Vau. A hiking trail from La Neuveville also reaches the Pilouvi forest reserve. These destinations complement the vineyard trails, and each route has its own focus. The municipality also includes agricultural land; along its western boundary, the Ruisseau de Vaux flows from the Plateau de Diesse into Lake Biel.
At Saint-Joux, you’ll find a beach volleyball court, a barbecue area, paddleboard rentals, a pump track and table tennis tables. As facilities may change, it’s worth checking the latest information before your visit. The port of La Neuveville is also the departure point for numerous cruises on three lakes; check the timetable for your travel date. The annual Course des Pavés is another sporting event to consider when choosing your travel dates.
Plan Your Wine Experience and Stay
Cave Auberson & fils offers visits, aperitifs and wine tastings featuring regional products and wines from the winery. Confirm your participation and visit time in advance. La Cour de Berne in the old town serves as a wine cellar for tastings and receptions; it also houses a large historic wine press. Here, too, it’s advisable to check visiting and reservation arrangements in advance.
The trails each have a different focus; the museum, church architecture and wine cellars offer further ways to discover the area’s culture and local history.
Discover more destinations: Nods
Return to the main travel overview: Neuenstadt.
