Are you visiting Neuchâtel and bringing your children along ? We understand that not all activities can be enjoyed with your little cherubs, but don’t worry. Hôtel Beaulac Neuchâtel has prepared a whole list of activities and places to visit if you’re staying in Neuchâtel with your children. Happy reading to everyone !
Looking for a place to stay by the lake in Neuchâtel ? Book your family room now !
The Creux-du-Van
Let’s start with the Creux-du-Van. The Creux-du-Van is a 160-meter high, four-kilometer-long rock formation shaped like a circus, formed during the last great ice age. The best way to explore the Creux-du-Van is on foot from Noiraigue (less suitable for young children) or by electric bike. For those who prefer a more relaxed approach: you can still reach the plateau by car !
The hike will be too strenuous for young children. However, if your children are a bit older, they can handle it perfectly well, don’t worry. At the top of the plateau, there are no barriers along the precipice. Therefore, it is advisable to carry young children (with a baby carrier or backpack) and hold the hands of older children.
Cooling off in the Gorges de l'Areuse
Also in Noiraigue, the hike through the Gorges de l’Areuse begins. South of Noiraigue, the Areuse River has carved an impressive gorge with numerous waterfalls over thousands of years: the “Gorges de l’Areuse”.
This is an ideal spot for a refreshing hike in the height of summer. There will always be something to discover: old power plants, bridges, fishermen, steep stairs, and even more waterfalls. But the highlight is undoubtedly the magnificent stone bridge “Pont du Saut du Brot”.
The path is always well secured, but still not entirely safe for children. So always stay vigilant! And those who suffer from vertigo should avoid this place. In case of rain, it is not advisable to hike, even without children. The stones become too slippery.
If you have doubts, bring a baby carrier anyway. The complete hike from Noiraigue to the lake in Boudry is 11.5 kilometers and officially takes three hours. You can also do the hike in the other direction and even have lunch halfway at Champs-du-Moulin and return to Neuchâtel by train.
Asphalt and absinthe in the Val de Travers
In addition to the Creux-du-Van and the Gorges de l’Areuse, the Val de Travers offers other attractions. For adults, there is the Absinthe Museum in Môtiers. Equip yourself with a helmet and discover the dark tunnels of the mine with a guide. Until 1986, asphalt was industrially mined here and exported all over the world.
And while you’re there, be sure to try the ham cooked in asphalt at the restaurant. It may sound strange, but it’s delicious!
A bit of Neuchâtel history with your children
In some caves along the Gorges de l’Areuse, Neanderthals once lived. Additionally, pile dwellings existed thousands of years ago in Neuchâtel. Specifically, at a large archaeological site outside the city, the Laténium, which is also the cantonal archaeological museum built in 2001. The museum and its immense park with a playground right by the lake are a great place for young children. The museum is easily accessible by bus or boat.
A little less far back in time, but just as interesting, Neuchâtel is also famous for the Belle Époque. During guided tours, treasure hunts, and in museums, you can immerse yourself in the period from 1880 to 1914. So, visit the old town, the parks, the ice cream parlours (your children will surely ask for ice cream, let’s admit it…). And don’t worry, the distances are short !
What else to discover in Neuchâtel with your children ?
Swimsuits will be indispensable in your suitcases! In Neuchâtel and the surrounding areas, there are countless opportunities to cool off in the lake. The pool “Piscines Nid-du-Crô” (with a 10-meter diving board for the bravest) is a must. A boat trip on the lake, preferably on a typical steamship, is also a great activity to do with your children to spend a peaceful time while exploring the Neuchâtel landscape.
In Chaumont, you will have the choice of different activities for parents and children. On this mountain, you can choose between laser tag, a giant trampoline, and an adventure park.
Did you know that Suchard was the largest chocolate producer in the world during the Belle Époque? Today, Suchard is not as well-known and is no longer produced in Neuchâtel, but the site of the old chocolate factory is still worth a visit. Your children can participate in a workshop to make their own chocolate. Note, however, that for the workshops, at least 8 people are required, and a reservation in advance is necessary.
Neuchâtel Tourist Card: For every night spent at the Hôtel Beaulac, you will receive the Neuchâtel Tourist Card for free. With this card, you can use buses, trains, and funiculars throughout the canton for free, rent bicycles for free in Neuchâtel, take a boat trip on Lake Neuchâtel, and gain free access to 28 museums (including the Laténium mentioned above).
Our hotel, the Best Western Beaulac in Neuchâtel, is located directly on the lakeshore. We welcome families in modern rooms with a superb view of the lake. We recommend one of our junior suites, which is perfect for four people, for example.
Book your stay now at the lakeside of Neuchâtel.
See you soon and enjoy your stay in Neuchâtel !
