Menhirs of Clendy

A prehistoric alignment by the lake

Nestled in a clearing by Lake Neuchâtel, east of Yverdon-les-Bains, the Clendy site is the most important megalithic alignment in Switzerland. Here, 45 standing stones from the 4th millennium BC can be found, over 6000 years ago. Some stones reach 4.5 meters in height and weigh up to five tons; several are sculpted in human form. These menhirs were erected by the inhabitants of the lakeside settlements in the region and were rediscovered when the lake level dropped in the 19th century. The visit is free, open, and accessible year-round.

What your children will discover

Your children will walk among giant stones planted there millennia ago, long before the Romans and knights. It's a concrete and impressive way to touch on prehistory: you walk around the menhirs, compare their size to your own, and imagine how people could have erected them without machines. The setting, between the forest and the lake, invites both nature observation and historical discovery.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

You can stroll freely among the stones, in a peaceful clearing by the water. The atmosphere is calm and natural, far from the hustle and bustle: it's a perfect stop during a walk along the lake. Expect a short visit, which you can easily combine with a longer walk or a picnic. The beach at Yverdon-les-Bains is nearby, making it easy to combine nature, history, and swimming in the summer.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 4 years old, up to teens
• Duration: about 30 minutes on site, longer depending on the walk
• Price: free, open visit
• Stroller accessibility: the site is outdoors and reported to be wheelchair accessible; check the path conditions according to the weather
• Transport: train to Yverdon-les-Bains CFF station, then a short walk to the lakeside site
• What to bring: good shoes, something to drink, a snack for a picnic by the water
• Ideal season: from spring to autumn, when you can fully enjoy the lakeside

Parents' tips

• Take the opportunity to combine it with the nearby beach at Yverdon-les-Bains: nature, history, and swimming in one outing.
• Bring a picnic: the clearing by the lake is perfect for it.
• Tell the children that these stones are older than the pyramids: the effect is guaranteed.
• Plan for good shoes, as the terrain is natural and can be wet near the water.
• Since access is free year-round, choose a nice day to make the most of it.

Useful information

• Address: Clendy site, by the lake, 1400 Yverdon-les-Bains
• Information source: https://www.yverdonlesbainsregion.ch
• Hours: free access year-round, outdoors
• Access: Yverdon-les-Bains CFF station, then a short walk to the site; inquire about the exact route at the regional tourist office

Why we recommend it

Because it's a free, outdoor outing that leaves a lasting impression. Seeing and touching menhirs over 6000 years old by Lake Neuchâtel is nothing ordinary. The site is easily accessible from Yverdon-les-Bains and combines wonderfully with a walk by the water or a visit to the beach. A beautiful way to blend nature and history without breaking the bank.

In two words

The largest alignment of menhirs in Switzerland, free and outdoors, by the lake in Yverdon-les-Bains. A journey of over 6000 years for the whole family.