Covered pool of l'Orval: family swimming in the heart of the Bernese Jura

A bubble of heat and water in the hollow of the Tavannes valley

In the heart of the Tavannes valley, in Bévilard (municipality of Valbirse), the Orval Indoor Pool is a well-known spot for families in the Bernese Jura. It is even the only indoor pool in the region, making it a valuable place to go when the sky clouds over or winter sets in. Renovated and reopened in spring 2026, it has gained comfort and new features while maintaining its simple and warm neighborhood pool atmosphere. People come here to swim, to splash around, to relax in the sauna, or simply to share a good moment by the water. Both beginner little swimmers and sporty teens find their place here.

What your children will discover

Children have plenty to keep them occupied here. The large 25-meter pool, equipped with a diving board, will delight those who already love to swim and dive. The youngest and beginner swimmers can enjoy the non-swimmer pool, which is shallower and warmer, perfect for getting used to the water with confidence. With the renovation, the small pool has been enhanced with a slide and an inflatable course that bring joy to families. On sunny days, the outdoor lawns and playground extend the outing in the fresh air.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The spirit of the place is family-friendly and relaxed. You can swim a few laps, accompany the children in the heated small pool, try out the slide, and then head to the sauna to warm up, complete with a relaxation room and a cold water pool. The restaurant and its terrace allow for a tasty break without leaving the premises, which is convenient with hungry children after swimming. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend half a day, between dives and a snack.

Before you go

• Recommended age: all ages; the non-swimmer pool is ideal for accompanied toddlers.
• Duration: 1.5 hours to half a day depending on your desire.
• Price: paid (entrances and subscriptions); rates to be confirmed on the official site.
• Reservation: not necessary for free swimming.
• Stroller/Accessibility for people with reduced mobility: to be confirmed with the pool.
• Transport: Malleray-Bévilard train stop nearby; parking available.
• What to bring: swimsuit, cap according to regulations, towel, and some change for lockers.
• Ideal season: all year round, it’s an indoor pool (ideal in gray weather and winter).

Parents' tips

• For beginners, aim for times when the small pool is heated: the warmer water reassures and extends swimming time.
• Check the day's schedule before leaving: they vary by day and school periods.
• Note the annual cleaning closure scheduled from July 13 to August 9, 2026, to avoid an unnecessary trip.
• Bring change for the locker and snacks, or enjoy the on-site restaurant.
• On sunny days, bring a picnic to enjoy the outdoor lawns.

Useful information

• Address: Route de Champoz 45, 2735 Bévilard (municipality of Valbirse).
• Official site: piscineorval.ch
• Hours: variable depending on the days and periods; check the official site.
• Access: Malleray-Bévilard train stop nearby; parking on site.

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

Why we recommend it

Because it is the only indoor pool in the Bernese Jura, open all year round and designed for families: a large pool for swimming, a heated area and a slide for the youngest, a sauna for parents, and a restaurant for a break. Freshly renovated, it combines comfort, proximity, and a friendly atmosphere, just a stone's throw from the train station.

In two words

A family-friendly indoor pool in the heart of the Bernese Jura, ideal in all weather for swimming, splashing, and relaxing, bringing together young and old.