Falaises Beach in Neuchâtel: lawn by the lake and family swimming

A large lawn by the lake, east of Neuchâtel

Just steps from the center of Neuchâtel, in the Falaises-Monruz district, the Plage des Falaises is one of those simple spots that we love to return to in the summer. Here, there’s no ticket to pay or barrier: you spread your towel on a vast lawn that borders Lake Neuchâtel, right next to the Nid-du-Crô pools. A small gravel beach allows for a gentle entry into the water, perfect for a refreshing swim. It’s a familiar spot for families from the Littoral, ideal for unwinding after school or spending a quiet Sunday in the sun. People come here to read, picnic, watch the children splashing around, and enjoy the unobstructed view of the lake and the Alps.

What your children will discover

Children have plenty of space to expend their energy here. The large lawn serves as their playground: they run, play ball, and lay out a blanket for snacks. By the lake, the gravel access and the gradually deepening water allow them to wade and practice their first strokes under your watchful eye. Between swims, they observe the ducks, throw pebbles into the water, or watch for boats passing by. It’s also an opportunity to introduce them to a Swiss lake in all its glory, with the smell of freshly cut grass and the late afternoon light on the water.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The atmosphere is relaxed and quite calm, especially compared to the busier beaches in the city. You set up your camp on the lawn, alternating between swimming and lounging, and share a picnic from your bag. Families mingle with walkers along the shores and swimmers doing laps in the lake. The proximity of the Nid-du-Crô pools makes it easy to combine both: a dive into the lake, then possibly the nearby pool for the basins and slides. It’s a no-frills place, where people come primarily for the simplicity of a day by the water.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 2 years old for the lawn and the water's edge, under close supervision; older children can enjoy swimming.
• Duration: half a day, easily extended until sunset.
• Price: free, open access.
• Reservation: none, you come when you want.
• Stroller/PRM accessibility: flat surroundings and accessible lawn; equipment details to be confirmed on site.
• Transport: easily accessible by public transport from the center of Neuchâtel and on foot along the shores of the lake; check the CFF schedule and local buses.
• What to bring: sunscreen, hat, water, towels, water shoes for the gravel bottom, and picnic supplies.
• Ideal season: summer, in good weather, when the lake water is most pleasant.

Parents' tips

• Swimming is not supervised: always keep an eye on the children by the water and set simple rules.
• Water shoes make entry through the gravel much more comfortable for little feet.
• Arrive early on hot days to find a shady spot and lawn to your liking.
• Consider a waterproof blanket and a lightweight backpack: everything is easy to carry on foot along the shores.
• The nearby Nid-du-Crô pool is a great fallback or complement if the kids want more.

Useful information

• Address: Route des Falaises 2000, 2000 Neuchâtel
• Official site: The beaches – City of Neuchâtel
• Hours: open access all year round; swimming depending on the season and weather.
• Access: east of Neuchâtel, next to the Nid-du-Crô pools; public transport and access on foot along the shores (CFF/bus schedule to check).

Looking for more outings? Find all our activities in Neuchâtel.

Why we recommend it

We love the Plage des Falaises for its simplicity and generosity: a large free lawn by the lake, gentle access to the water, and the possibility to continue on to the Nid-du-Crô pool. It’s the kind of place where a family day can be organized without any reservations or expenses, just with a towel and a picnic. For families in Neuchâtel and the Littoral, it’s a summer staple.

In two words

A public and free beach east of Neuchâtel, with its large lawn and small gravel beach: the ideal address for a relaxing family day by the lake.