Lakes around Merzligen, a municipality in the canton of Bern, Switzerland, are defined by their proximity to Lake Biel and the Bernese Seeland. This region combines cultural elements, such as wine-growing villages, with diverse natural landscapes. Merzligen offers access to Lake Biel, which is characterized by its northern shore vineyards and water sports activities. The area provides a variety of landscapes to explore, from canal mouths to vineyard trails.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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For those using public transport, pay close attention to the train timetable. There is one train per hour between Twann and Biel, and no other means of transport. In winter, there are no boats making this journey.
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Douanne, or Twann in German, is a charming wine-growing village nestled among the vineyards on the shores of Lake Biel. Take the time to explore the cobbled streets, sample fresh lake fish, and soak up the village's Mediterranean atmosphere.
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Great location if you want to spend a relaxing day at the beach in summer - very pleasant ambience
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Cycling around and along here, very interesting and an impressive building
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The wine-growing village of Twann stretches along the lake from the Twannbach (border with Ligerz) through Klein-Twann, the village center of Twann with the church, the Moos, the hamlet of Wingreis to the Fluhbach (border with Tüscherz). Towards Jura, the village stretches over the farming hamlet of Gaicht to the Twannberg. The St. Peter's Island also belongs to Twann. Excavations have shown the remains of a Neolithic lakeside settlement in the 4th/3rd millennium BC. The village name can be traced back to the Celtic period around 400-500 BC. The church dates from the early Middle Ages (9th century). In the 12th to 13th centuries, the name Tuana was first mentioned in a document confirming the transfer of an estate to Baron Berchtold von Twann. With Cuno von Twann, the Baronial family of Twann died out. This was followed by the Twing rule (noble rule) in the 15th to 18th centuries. Source https://bielersee-tourismus.ch/twann/
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Confluence Hagneck Canal in Lake Biel - beautiful renatured landscape
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Beautiful bathing bay with a great view.
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The most prominent lake near Merzligen is Lake Biel (Bielersee in German, Lac de Bienne in French). It's the eighth-largest lake in Switzerland and a central feature of the region.
Lake Biel offers diverse natural beauty, including extensive vineyards along its northern shore, the unique St. Peter's Island with its hidden bays and nature reserve, and the renatured Hagneck Canal Mouth. The Jura Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop, and the southern shore maintains important natural wetlands.
Yes, the region is rich in history and culture. The historic winegrowing village of Twann/Douanne, with its winding lanes and old houses, offers a medieval atmosphere. St. Peter's Island is famous for its historic monastic hotel and as a temporary residence of Jean-Jacques Rousseau. The entire northern shore is characterized by centuries-old viticulture.
Lake Biel is a popular spot for various water sports, especially in summer. You can enjoy stand-up paddling, windsurfing, kayaking, and boating. Activities like wakesurfing, wakeboarding, and wakeskating are also available. Numerous swimming spots, lidos, and beaches with barbecue areas are found along the shores.
Absolutely. There are many footpaths and cycling routes around Lake Biel, including sections of the Aare Route and ViaBerna. The Lake Biel Vineyards Trail offers scenic views and insights into viticulture. You can also explore routes like the Twann Gorge. For more specific routes, check out the cycling guide or MTB trails guide for the area.
Many areas around Lake Biel are family-friendly. The numerous swimming spots and beaches are great for children. St. Peter's Island offers hidden bathing bays and is a car-free area perfect for exploration. The Hagneck Canal Mouth is also noted as family-friendly.
Visitors particularly appreciate the stunning views, especially from spots like the Vineyards of Twann, and the serene atmosphere of Lake Biel. The historic charm of villages like Twann/Douanne and the natural beauty of St. Peter's Island are also highly rated. The renatured Hagneck Canal Mouth is praised for its impressive facilities and natural appeal.
The summer months are ideal for water sports and swimming in Lake Biel. However, the region's vineyards and trails are beautiful in every season, offering different atmospheres. Spring and autumn are excellent for hiking and cycling, with pleasant temperatures and vibrant landscapes.
Yes, the Lake Biel Navigation Company offers a variety of cruises. These include regular boat trips, brunch cruises on the solar-powered 'MobiCat,' culinary tours, and romantic full moon rides, providing an excellent way to experience the lake's scenery.
Yes, charming wine-growing villages like Twann and Ligerz along the northern shore offer various options. St. Peter's Island also features a historic monastic hotel and places to eat. Many trails and villages around the lake have cafes and restaurants.
Yes, the area caters to various cycling preferences. For road cycling, you can find routes like the 'Erlach Old Town – Old Town, La Neuveville loop' or the 'Lake Biel – Biel Town Church loop'. Mountain bikers can explore trails such as the 'Hagneck Canal Mouth – St. Petersinsel Nature Reserve loop' or the 'Strandboden Biel – Tiki Taka Trail Entrance loop'. More details are available in the road cycling guide and MTB trails guide for Merzligen.


Still not found your perfect lake around Merzligen? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.