Port de Vaumarcus Beach: a quiet cove by Lake Neuchâtel

A small cove at the foot of the vineyards, in Vaumarcus

Nestled right by Lake Neuchâtel, the Plage du Port de Vaumarcus is one of those discreet spots that you love to keep to yourself. In the municipality of La Grande Béroche, right next to the small port, it takes the form of a pretty gravel cove bordered by grass. Here, there are no large infrastructures or crowds: you spread your towel on the lawn, enjoy the shaded areas when the sun is beating down, and dive into often calm water. It’s the kind of peaceful place where a family can spend the afternoon without rushing, between the lake, the boats in the port, and the panorama of the southern shore.

What your children will discover

Children love this human-sized corner of the lake. The small gravel beach gently slopes down to the water, and there’s always something to observe: the boats moored at the port, the ducks passing by, the flat stones perfect for skipping. The adjoining lawn provides space to run, picnic, or play ball between swims. It’s a gentle and tranquil introduction to the lake, far from the hustle and bustle of large beaches.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

People come here to swim, sunbathe, and relax. The atmosphere is family-friendly and laid-back: a few local families, walkers, swimmers looking for a moment of calm. You set up your camp on the grass, picnic in the shade, and alternate between the water and your towel. The proximity of the port adds charm to the break: you watch the boats come and go, stroll along the quay. It’s a beach where you slow down, perfect for a summer evening.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 2 years old, under constant supervision (swimming in the lake, no lifeguard).
• Duration: half a day is enough to enjoy swimming and a picnic.
• Price: free, public access.
• Reservation: none, you come freely.
• Accessibility for strollers/PRM: gravel and grass terrain; access for strollers and people with reduced mobility to be confirmed.
• Transport: parking nearby; public transport to Vaumarcus to be confirmed on the CFF website.
• What to bring: towels, sunscreen, water shoes (gravel/pebbles), picnic supplies, and drinking water.
• Ideal season: summer, in good weather, when the lake water has warmed up.

Parent tips

• Bring water shoes: the gravel and pebble shore is more comfortable for little feet.
• Settle in early in the shaded spots on hot days, as they fill up quickly.
• Keep young children within reach: swimming is not supervised.
• Bring your picnic and your trash: the area is natural and preserved, so we leave it clean.
• Combine swimming with a walk along the port to observe the boats.

Useful information

• Address: Port de Vaumarcus, Vaumarcus, La Grande Béroche (Neuchâtel).
• Official site: tourist information about the beaches in the region on j3l.ch (Neuchâtel tourism).
• Hours: beach is freely accessible; preferably visit during the summer season.
• Access: parking near the port; access by train/bus to Vaumarcus to be confirmed on the CFF website.

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

Why we recommend it

Because it’s exactly the kind of place that makes a summer day easy: free, peaceful, by a beautiful lake, with just the right amount of grass and shade to set up your family’s things. Away from crowded beaches, the Plage du Port de Vaumarcus offers a simple and rejuvenating moment, where both young and old can enjoy Lake Neuchâtel at their own pace.

In two words

A small free and peaceful cove by Lake Neuchâtel, in Vaumarcus: grass, shade, and tranquil swimming for a lovely family day.