Plage Saint-Joux: family grass swimming in La Neuveville

A lawn beach by Lake Biel, just a stone's throw from La Neuveville

Saint-Joux beach is one of those simple places that make for wonderful summer days with family. Located by Lake Biel, in La Neuveville (on the French-speaking shore of the lake), it boils down to the essentials: a large lawn to lay your towel, often clear water for swimming, and an unobstructed view of the vineyards and Saint-Pierre Island. People come here to sunbathe, take a dip, play beach volleyball, or simply let the kids run around. Access is free and open, making it an ideal spontaneous outing whenever the weather is nice. It's the kind of place where you arrive with a picnic and leave in the late afternoon without realizing how time has flown.

What your children will discover

Your children will find plenty of ways to expend energy without getting bored. The large lawn is perfect for ball games, frisbee, or an impromptu match, and swimming in Lake Biel remains the main attraction on hot days. On-site, a pump track (bump course for bikes, scooters, and rollerblades) delights older kids, while ping-pong tables and the beach volleyball court provide entertainment for the whole tribe. The little ones love splashing at the water's edge and watching the boats pass by towards the nearby port.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The atmosphere is that of a village beach: relaxed, friendly, and without fuss. You spread your towel on the grass, alternate between swimming and napping in the shade, and willingly share your patch of lawn with neighboring families. The restaurant Le O'Lé, with its shaded terrace, allows you to have a drink or a bite to eat without leaving the premises, and a picnic area with a barbecue spot invites you to extend your day. A new feature appreciated since 2025: you can rent a paddleboard to explore the lake. It's a beach that is experienced at the leisurely pace of summer.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 2 years old, up to adolescence; close supervision of younger children near the water.
• Duration: half a day to a full day.
• Price: free and open access to the beach. Food and paddleboard rentals are paid; parking is paid on site.
• Reservation: no reservation needed for the beach.
• Stroller/Accessibility: flat grassy terrain generally accessible with a stroller; details on accessibility for people with reduced mobility to be confirmed with the municipality.
• Transport: La Neuveville is served by train (CFF); the beach is about 1 km from the center. Paid parking nearby.
• What to bring: swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, water shoes, caps, and picnic supplies.
• Ideal season: summer, in good weather, to enjoy swimming.

Parents' tips

• Arrive early on sunny weekends: the lawn and parking fill up quickly.
• Bring water shoes, as the entry into the lake may have rocky areas.
• Keep younger ones within reach: there is no lifeguard, you remain responsible.
• Consider bringing pump track equipment (bike, scooter, helmet) if your children want to enjoy it.
• Bring shade (beach umbrella) and water: shaded spots are popular during hot hours.

Useful information

• Address: Chemin de Saint-Joux 22, 2520 La Neuveville (Canton of Bern).
• Official site: Jura & Trois-Lacs – Plage Saint-Joux.
• Hours: beach is open access; restaurant and paddleboard rental hours to be confirmed on the official site.
• Access: CFF train to La Neuveville then ~1 km on foot or by bike; paid parking nearby.

Looking for more outings? Find all our activities in La Neuveville.

Why we recommend it

Because it ticks all the boxes for a successful summer outing with family: free, easy to access, with space to run, a real swimming experience, and activities (pump track, beach volleyball, paddleboarding) that keep both young and old entertained. Saint-Joux beach is the simple and safe option to enjoy Lake Biel without breaking the bank or having to plan weeks in advance.

In two words

A free lawn beach by Lake Biel, perfect for a day of swimming and games with family in La Neuveville.