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Sandy beaches of Yvonand

Looking for a real sandy beach by Lake Neuchâtel? In Yvonand, the fine sand gently slopes into shallow water, at the edge of the Grande Cariçaie nature reserve. A postcard-perfect setting for a family day out.

Illustration of the sandy beaches of Yvonand: fine golden sand bordered by pine trees, shallow turquoise water of Lake Neuchâtel, children splashing around and building sandcastles, a small sailboat near the shore.

Fine sand under the pines, by Lake Neuchâtel

In Yvonand, you will find one of the most beautiful sandy beaches of Lake Neuchâtel. The fine sand stretches under the pines and gently descends into shallow water, without strong currents. The setting is peaceful, between lake, forest, and countryside, at the edge of the Grande Cariçaie nature reserve. You almost feel like you're on vacation, even though the village train station is just a ten-minute walk away. It's the kind of place where you spread out your towel and time slows down.

What your children will discover

Your children will love this real fine sand, perfect for digging, building, and splashing around. The gently sloping water allows them to play for a long time without getting in too deep, a true delight for the little ones. Nature is everywhere around: reeds, water birds, and the vast horizon of the lake. A playground complements the swimming area, and older kids can try their hand at water sports or kick a ball on the sand. It's a beach where you can easily switch from one game to another.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The atmosphere is natural and family-friendly, far from the hustle and bustle of large resorts. You set up your camp under the pines to enjoy the shade, alternating between swimming, sandcastles, and snacks. A refreshment stand with a terrace and a beach bar allow you to have a drink or snack without having to plan everything. For those who like to move, pedal boats, paddleboards, or windsurfing boards can be rented in the area. As evening falls, the light on the lake and the Grande Cariçaie offers a magnificent backdrop before heading home.

Before you go

  • Recommended age: all ages, ideal for 0 to 16 years
  • Duration: half a day to a full day
  • Price: free access to the beach; paid parking
  • Stroller accessibility: soft sand in places, plan for an adapted stroller or carry the little ones
  • Transport: 10 minutes on foot from Yvonand CFF train station
  • What to bring: sunscreen, hat, water, water shoes, armbands for the little ones
  • Ideal season: in summer, during nice weather

Parents' tips

  • Swimming is not supervised: never take your eyes off the children, even in shallow water.
  • Parking is paid during high season; coming by train from the village station avoids parking issues.
  • Set up under the pines to benefit from natural shade during hot hours.
  • You are at the edge of a nature reserve: stay on the beach areas and respect the signage.
  • Consider water shoes, practical for entering the lake and walking along the edges.

Useful information

  • Address: Avenue des Pins 10, 1462 Yvonand
  • Official website: yverdonlesbainsregion.ch
  • Hours: beach is freely accessible; refreshment stand and beach bar open in the summer season (check the official website for details)
  • Access: 10 minutes on foot from Yvonand CFF train station; on-site parking, paid in season

Why we recommend it

It is one of the few beaches with real fine sand on Lake Neuchâtel, with gently sloping water ideal for children and a preserved natural setting. We love its tranquil atmosphere, its pines for shade, and its proximity to the Grande Cariçaie. A sure bet for a day of nature swimming with the family, easily accessible by train.

In two words

Fine sand under the pines, shallow water, and the Grande Cariçaie in the background: a free and natural beach, perfect for children in Yvonand.

Frequently asked questions

Is access to the beaches of Yvonand free?
Yes, entry to the beach is free and open. Only parking is paid during the high season, as well as the refreshments at the snack bar and beach bar.
Is swimming supervised?
No, the beach is not supervised. Keep your children within reach at all times, even in the shallow area, and check the official website for information.
Is the beach suitable for young children?
Yes, the fine sand and the gently sloping water, without strong currents, create a reassuring environment for little ones. Arm bands and close supervision remain essential.
How to get to Yvonand from the train station?
The beach is located about a 10-minute walk from the Yvonand CFF train station. By car, parking is available on-site, paid during the high season.
Are there restrooms, showers, and a refreshment stand?
Yes, the beach has showers and toilets. A snack bar with a terrace and a beach bar provide drinks and light meals during the season.
Is the beach in a nature reserve?
The area borders the Grande Cariçaie nature reserve, the largest lake marsh in Switzerland. Stay on the beach areas and respect the signage to preserve the site.
What is the best time to go there?
In summer, when the weather is nice, when the water is most pleasant and the refreshment stand is open. Arrive early on hot days to enjoy the shade of the pines.

Michael @ Kidora

Kid Adventure Planner

Location

Yvonand

Vaud

Avenue des Pins 10, 1462 Yvonand

Until 16 years
Outdoor

Contact

Website

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