Where to go Paddleboarding or Kayaking on Lake Neuchâtel – Spots, Rentals and Tips 2025 🛶
- Jul 18
- 5 min read
Lake Neuchâtel, the largest body of water entirely located in Switzerland, is a must-see for paddleboarding and kayaking enthusiasts. With its calm waters, natural beaches, picturesque villages, and protected reed beds, it attracts water sports enthusiasts seeking nature and relaxation.
In this comprehensive guide, discover the best places to practice SUP or kayaking on Lake Neuchâtel, practical advice to help you prepare for your session and all the useful information on rental, access and safety.
Where to go Paddleboarding or Kayaking on Lake Neuchâtel – Spots, Rentals and Tips 2025 🛶
📍 Top Spots for Paddle and Kayak on Lake Neuchâtel
1. Estavayer-le-Lac – A nautical paradise
It's one of the most dynamic water sports centers on the lake. Here you'll find numerous beaches, a fully equipped water sports center, waterfront restaurants, and activities for all ages.
Rental : Several rental companies offer paddleboards, kayaks, and pedal boats on site.
Access : Easy parking in the city center or near the port
Level : Ideal for beginners and families
Places to see : medieval old town, sandy beach, castle
2. Cheyres – Peace and unspoiled nature
A small, peaceful village, Cheyres is perfect for a morning outing or a sunset paddleboarding trip. Less crowded than Estavayer, it offers a wild setting.
Rental : Paddleboard available at the campsite or municipal beach
Access : Free parking 200 m from the beach
Level : All levels – very quiet area
To see : reed beds, water birds, viewpoint over the Jura mountain range
3. Yverdon-les-Bains – Water sports in the city
On the west bank, Yverdon is known for its thermal baths, historic town center, and well-equipped beach. The lake is wide and easily accessible.
Rental : Stand-up paddleboards and canoes available at the municipal beach
Access : Large parking lot next to the beach + pedestrian access
Level : Suitable for beginners and advanced users
Places to see : jetty, sand dunes, Thièle nature reserve
4. Grandson – Historic paddle at the foot of the castle
Grandson charms with its medieval atmosphere and natural setting. Boats can be launched from the beach or the small harbor.
Location : Few direct rentals – to be expected
Access : Parking near the port or the castle
Level : Calm, except in windy afternoons
Places to see : Grandson castle, village, panorama of the Alps
5. Concise – Serenity between vineyards and lake
A hidden gem between Yverdon and Neuchâtel, Concise is surrounded by vineyards and offers direct access to the lake with unobstructed views.
Location : To be booked in advance (hotels or private)
Access : Parking at the port or along the lake
Level : Easy outing for independent paddlers
To see : vineyards, small coves, sunset
🛟 Practical Tips for Enjoying Lake Neuchâtel by SUP or Kayak
Weather : prefer mornings (less wind)
Safety : wearing a life jacket is recommended (mandatory at +300 m from the banks)
Equipment : leash, waterproof phone, water, sunscreen
Respect for nature : do not enter reed bed areas (protected reserves)
Best time to visit : June to September – pleasant temperature, moderate crowds
🚣♀️ Why Choose Lake Neuchâtel for Paddleboarding or Kayaking?
Easy access by car or train from Lausanne, Bern or Geneva
Few motorboats – peaceful navigation
Numerous rental points and equipped beaches
Clear water, panoramic views of the Alps, relaxed atmosphere
Where to go Paddleboarding or Kayaking on Lake Neuchâtel – Spots, Rentals and Tips 2025 🛶
❓ FAQ – Water activities on Lake Neuchâtel 🇨🇭
🌊 Where to paddleboard around Lake Neuchâtel?
The best spots are in Estavayer-le-Lac, Cheyres, Grandson, and Yverdon-les-Bains. These beaches offer easy access to the water, SUP rental areas, and suitable facilities.
🚗 Where can you easily park for paddleboarding in Estavayer-le-Lac?
The large parking lot at the New Port is free and located 100 meters from the nautical center. It provides direct access to the beach and rental services.
🏄 Where is the best place to rent a stand-up paddleboard in Yverdon-les-Bains? Rives du Lac beach in Yverdon offers a seasonal rental stand, complete with paddleboards, kayaks, and safety equipment. Perfect for beginners and families.
💦 Can you kayak on Lake Neuchâtel?
Yes, kayaking is very popular, especially in Cheyres and Concise. The lake offers calm conditions and little current, ideal for a peaceful trip.
🧒 Is paddleboarding suitable for children on Lake Neuchâtel?
Yes, double paddleboards and children's life jackets are available in Estavayer and Cheyres. The Marais de la Grande Cariçaie offers a quiet area perfect for beginners.
🛶 What types of water sports can you do on Lake Neuchâtel?
Paddleboarding, kayaking, pedal boating, sailing, canoeing, water skiing (in some areas) and wakeboarding are all available on the lake. Water sports centers are located in Grandson, Estavayer and Yverdon.
📍 Are there any quiet coves for paddling on Lake Neuchâtel?
Yes, between Estavayer and Cheyres, several small, quiet coves allow for a peaceful SUP or kayak session, surrounded by nature.
📸 Which spots offer the best views for paddleboarding on the lake?
Grandson offers an exceptional panorama of the Alps. In Estavayer, the late afternoon light creates magnificent reflections for photography enthusiasts.
🌅 Can you paddleboard at sunset in Yverdon?
Yes, Yverdon Beach faces west, making it ideal for an evening paddleboard session while watching the sunset. Bring a life jacket and a flashlight if you're staying late.
🌬️ Is the wind a problem for paddleboarding on Lake Neuchâtel?
The morning is generally calm. However, the bise (north wind) can pick up in the early afternoon, making the practice more difficult.
🎯 Where can I find a complete water sports center on Lake Neuchâtel?
In Estavayer-le-Lac, the Nouveau Port nautical base offers paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, a bar-restaurant, showers and a developed beach.
📆 When does the paddle season start on Lake Neuchâtel?
The season generally begins in May and lasts until the end of September, depending on the weather. Rental shops are open as soon as the first fine weather arrives.
🌿 Can you paddleboard in the Grande Cariçaie Nature Reserve?
Access is regulated: paddleboarding is permitted in certain areas along the edge, but it is forbidden to enter reed beds or nesting areas.
👨👩👧 Are there any family water activities around Lake Neuchâtel?
Yes, the beaches of Estavayer and Cheyres are designed for families, with pedal boat and paddleboard rentals, shallow areas, and lifeguards in summer.
🍽️ Are there any restaurants accessible by paddleboard on Lake Neuchâtel? Yes, in Grandson and Estavayer, several establishments are located on the lakefront. Some even offer pontoons for direct access by paddleboard or kayak.
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