Top 20 Lakes in Vaud
Best lakes in Vaud offer diverse natural landscapes across the region. The canton features significant bodies of water, including glacial lakes in the Jura mountains and parts of larger lakes like Lac de Neuchâtel. These areas provide opportunities for various outdoor activities, from easy hikes around Vaud lakes to water sports. The region's lakes are known for their natural beauty and accessibility for exploration.
Best lakes in Vaud
- The most popular lake is Lac de Joux, a lake that is the largest in the Jura mountains. It can be completely circled by bike, offering beaches and swimming spots.
- Another must-see spot is the Wooden boardwalk along Lac de Neuchâtel, a trail that provides views of the lake. This path allows for exploration of the lakeside environment.
- Visitors also love Grèves de la Motte Nature Reserve, a natural monument with a unique riverside landscape. It offers opportunities to observe birdlife and enjoy views of the lake from a wooden pier.
- Vaud is known for its glacial lakes, large natural lakes, and smaller, hidden lake walks. These bodies of water provide a variety of environments for outdoor activities and natural observation.
- The lakes in Vaud are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 90 highlights and more than 440 upvotes, accompanied by over 70 photos.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
Lac de Joux
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Wooden boardwalk along Lac de Neuchâtel
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Louis Bourget Park Beach
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Mouth of the Broye into Lake Neuchâtel
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The Broye has its origins in the Fribourg Prealps. After flowing through the cantons of Fribourg and Vaud, it flows into Lake Murten in Salavaux. On the other side of the lake, the Broye flows out again in the form of an artificial canal. The Broye Canal, which connects Lake Murten with Lake Neuchâtel, is a must for anyone who wants to explore the Three Lakes region on foot, by bike or by boat.
A few thousand years ago, Lake Murten, Lake Neuchâtel and Lake Biel formed a single large body of water, on whose shores the first Swiss inhabitants settled. Remains of that time still exist today: the prehistoric pile dwellings are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In that long-ago time, Mont Vully, which was only connected to the shore by a thin sandy path, protruded from the middle of the lake. Due to their history and the development of various leisure activities, both the Three Lakes Region and Mont Vully are known and loved by all Swiss people.
Text / Source: Vaud Promotion, Avenue d'Ouchy 60, Case postale 1125, 1001 Lausanne
myvaud.ch/de/P9695/broyekanal
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Cudrefin Marina on Lake Neuchâtel
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Creux de Terre Nature Reserve
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Grèves de la Motte Nature Reserve
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Through the forest
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Le Pont
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Sandy beach at La Menthue, Lake Neuchâtel
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Playground and restaurant at La Menthue campsite in the East.
Out of season, accessible by bike (watch out for sand in the gears).
A Mediterranean ambiance separates the beach from the road.
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Popular around Vaud
GR 5 – The Europe Trail from the Mediterranean to Germany
The Europe Trail – GR 5 from Nyon to Montbéliard
Road to Lisbon – bikepacking the Alps, Pyrenees and Picos de Europa
Arc jurassien in Switzerland – 4 stages through the wild Jura Mountains
Alpine Panorama Trail in Switzerland – Keep your eyes on the mountains
Jura Crest Trail - Rocks, distant views and fondue - 16 stages
The Rhone Route – from glaciers to Lake Geneva
The Mittelland Route – Between Lake Constance and Lake Geneva
Cycling the Jura from Basel to Lake Geneva in 6 stages
Via Jacobi – Following the Way of St James across Switzerland
Other adventures in Vaud
Tips from the Community
beautiful Jet d'eau and the restaurant Chez Nath delicious!!
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The Creux de Terre near Yverdon-les-Bains is an impressive karst sinkhole and also a significant nature reserve. The basin was formed by geological processes in which limestone sank, forming a funnel-shaped basin. Today, the area is home to moist meadows, ponds, small forests, and rich biodiversity. Amphibians such as frogs, toads, and newts find ideal living conditions here. Numerous bird species also breed or rest in the reserve. Walking trails with information panels lead through the basin and explain its geology, flora, and fauna. The Creux de Terre is easily accessible from nearby Yverdon.
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Wonder Lake to cycle around plenty of cafe and different routes you can take.
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A small idyll on the very edge of Lausanne: the Louis Bourget Park. It is named after a doctor, naturalist and ornithologist who, during his lifetime from 1856 to 1913, campaigned for this spot to be declared a nature reserve.
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The Broye, which has been regulated as a canal due to frequent floods, flows into Lake Neuchâtel here. The dam is accessible all the way to the end in the lake.
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Pretty village to the north of Lac de Joux, right on the water's edge with its boats and its beach. Note that it is one of the rare places in the heart of the Jura that is sheltered from the north winds.
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Beautiful sandy beach with campsite.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best lakes in Vaud for outdoor activities?
For a wide range of activities, Lac de Joux is highly recommended. It's the largest lake in the Jura mountains, perfect for cycling around, swimming, and various water sports like sailing and windsurfing. In winter, it transforms into a vast ice rink for skating and cross-country skiing. The surrounding area also offers extensive cycling and hiking routes.
Are there family-friendly lakes and activities in Vaud?
Yes, many lakes in Vaud are suitable for families. Lac de Joux offers beaches and swimming spots, and the nearby village of Le Pont is family-friendly. The Louis Bourget Park Beach is another great option for families. Additionally, the Creux de Terre Nature Reserve and the Mouth of the Broye into Lake Neuchâtel are noted as family-friendly spots.
Where can I find easy hiking trails around the Vaud lakes?
For an easy walk, consider the Tour of Lac Brenet, which is a 4.9 km route. You can find more hiking options in the region by visiting the Hiking in Vaud guide.
What are the best lakes for cycling in Vaud?
Lac de Joux is ideal for cycling, as you can completely circle it by bike, enjoying beaches and swimming spots along the way. The area around Lac de Joux also features extensive cycling and mountain biking routes. For more cycling routes, explore the Road Cycling Routes in Vaud and MTB Trails in Vaud guides.
Are there any nature reserves or unique natural features to explore near the lakes?
Yes, Vaud is home to several notable nature reserves. The Grèves de la Motte Nature Reserve offers a unique riverside landscape with opportunities to observe birdlife and enjoy lake views from a wooden pier. You can also cycle through this reserve on farm tracks. The Creux de Terre Nature Reserve is another area of natural beauty.
What is the best time to visit the Vaud lakes?
The Vaud lakes offer different experiences throughout the year. In summer (June to September), water temperatures at Lac de Joux range from 18 to 24 degrees Celsius, making it perfect for swimming and water sports. In winter, the Vallée de Joux, including Lac de Joux, transforms into a paradise for ice skating and cross-country skiing, with around 200 kilometers of groomed trails.
Can I find cafes or places to eat near the lakes?
Yes, the village of Le Pont, located on the edge of Lac de Joux, has a restaurant, a small grocery store, and several café terraces. At Cudrefin Marina on Lake Neuchâtel, you can also find places to enjoy a drink or coffee with a view of the lake.
Are there any unique trails or boardwalks to experience the lakeside environment?
Absolutely. The Wooden boardwalk along Lac de Neuchâtel provides a unique trail experience with excellent views of the lake, allowing for close exploration of the lakeside environment.
What kind of water sports are available on the Vaud lakes?
Lac de Joux is known for its favorable wind conditions, attracting many sailors and windsurfers. It's also suitable for rowing, water skiing, and wakeboarding. In July and August, a scheduled boat runs on Lac de Joux for afternoon round trips.
Are there any hidden or less-known lake walks in Vaud?
While specific 'hidden' walks are not detailed, the region is known for its smaller, less-trafficked lakes and trails. Exploring the areas around the larger lakes, such as the farm tracks in the Grèves de la Motte Nature Reserve, can lead to more secluded experiences.
What are the options for winter activities around the Vaud lakes?
In winter, the Vallée de Joux, where Lac de Joux is located, transforms into a winter sports hub. The frozen lake becomes a huge ice rink for skaters, and the area offers around 200 kilometers of groomed trails for cross-country skiing. Snowshoe tours and dog sledding are also popular activities.
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