Autumn turns Neuchâtel into a living painting. The vineyards glow in shades of gold, the Jura forests blaze with reds and oranges, and the old town takes on a quieter, more atmospheric character. It’s the perfect season for slower, more intimate weekend breaks, combining culture, gastronomy and nature. Here are three suggestions for making the most of an autumn weekend in Neuchâtel.
A gourmet weekend among vineyards and regional flavours
The vineyard slopes around Neuchâtel are at their most beautiful in autumn. Between Cressier, Cornaux and Auvernier, the wine trail runs for about 10 km through golden hillsides, with constant views of the lake and the Alps.
Along the way, many estates welcome visitors. The Domaine de Montmollin in Auvernier is one of the region’s best-known names, particularly for its Chasselas and Pinot Noir wines. Further north, the Domaine Grisoni in Cressier offers tastings often accompanied by local produce.
October also marks the hunting season in French-speaking Switzerland. Restaurants in town and in the surrounding countryside serve traditional dishes such as venison stew, medallions of deer, and game terrines, usually paired with spätzli, red cabbage and glazed chestnuts. The Café du Cerf in the old town and the Auberge de la Tête de Ran in the Jura are two good addresses to try these seasonal menus.
For a more unusual culinary experience, head to the Val-de-Travers. The Maison de l’Absinthe in Môtiers retraces the fascinating story of the “Green Fairy”, and distilleries such as La Valote Martin offer guided tours with tastings.
A cultural weekend with museums and concerts
Neuchâtel boasts an impressive range of museums. The Laténium in Hauterive is Switzerland’s largest archaeological museum, with over 50,000 objects on display – including prehistoric dugout canoes recovered from the lakebed.
The Museum of Art and History, housed in a Belle Époque villa overlooking the lake, mixes fine art, archaeology and decorative arts. Its highlights are the famous Jaquet-Droz automata, 18th-century mechanical masterpieces that still function today.
For contemporary art, the Centre d’art Neuchâtel (CAN) presents bold and innovative exhibitions, while the Museum of Ethnography (MEN) stages original displays exploring cultures from across the world.
Music lovers are also well served. The Neuchâtel Chamber Orchestra usually opens its season in October, with concerts at the Temple du Bas or the Salle de musique. The Théâtre du Passage offers an additional programme of theatre, opera and dance throughout autumn.
A romantic weekend by the lake and in the Jura
When summer crowds leave, the Lake of Neuchâtel regains its calm. Walks along the shores from Colombier to Saint-Blaise reveal small beaches, reed beds and quiet bays – especially atmospheric in the morning mist or at sunset.
A short ride on the funicular brings you up to Chaumont. From the panoramic tower, the view stretches across the Three Lakes region towards the Alps. In autumn, the surrounding forests burst into colour, making the Joux Forest an enchanting place for a hand-in-hand walk.
For a more adventurous outing, the Areuse Gorges offer a dramatic trail along waterfalls, stone bridges and forest paths. Returning via Noiraigue gives the chance to stop in a traditional inn for a hearty meal.
Back in town, the Waves Rooftop Bar at Hotel Beaulac is a perfect evening setting. With creative cocktails, an intimate atmosphere and harbour views, it rounds off a day in style.
An autumn to savour
A vineyard walk, a museum visit, a concert or a lakeside stroll – autumn in Neuchâtel lends itself to many kinds of weekends. The Hotel Beaulac, right on the lakeshore and just steps from the old town, is the perfect base for exploring. After a day full of discoveries, spacious rooms, fine dining at the Lake Side Restaurant, and a drink at the Waves Rooftop await.
Book your stay directly at beaulac.ch or by phone at +41 32 723 11 11.
