Sand between your feet, sun on your face and a refreshing drink in your hand. It sounds quite like a holiday by the sea. But you don’t have to hop on a plane and travel far for all that. When it comes to beaches, Switzerland has much more to offer than you may think. It’s no coincidence that Switzerland is the “water castle” of Europe.
Beach hopping in the Three Lakes Region
Lake Biel, Lake Neuchâtel and Lake Murten aren’t considered an attractive destination trio for nothing. The numerous bike routes connect picturesque towns and contrasting facets of a beautiful natural landscape. Fresh sea air is always wafting towards you, whether you are cycling, on one of the many boat tours or stand-up paddling.
The perfect spot to get on your SUP, Lake Murten
Three lakes – one youth hostel
Fine sandy beaches with all the bells and whistles can be found on all three bodies of water. For stress-free beach hopping, a central place to sleep is recommended, such as the Avenches Youth Hostel. From here you can reach several beaches. From Avenches, detours to the nearby Camping-Port-Plage Avenches on Lake Murten, to the lido in Biel on Lake Biel or to one of several sandy beaches in Yvonand on Lake Neuchâtel are particularly worthwhile.
Jump into the cool waters of Lake Biel Picture © Schweiz Tourismus
Three stars beginning with L: The lidos in Locarno, Lugano and Lucerne
These three Swiss cities have two things in common in particular: Joie de vivre and fabulous beaches.
Locarno isn’t just a film city. You can also have fun at the lido here. At the modern Lido di Locarno you will find a water slide, a huge diving tower… and sand – plus even more. It can be reached in less than 10 minutes by bike from our Locarno Youth Hostel.
The large lido on Lake Lugano offers a huge selection. Besides lawns, swimming pools and a restaurant, the gently sloping sandy beach is the main attraction. If it gets too busy there at peak times, you can cool off a little more privately before checking into Lugano Youth Hostel. Namely in the in-house pool surrounded by greenery.
Where can you find that – an in-house pool at a youth hostel? That’s right, in Lugano
Lucerne boasts two sandy beaches on Lake Lucerne. On the one hand, people meet at the spacious lido facility near the Verkehrshaus – Museum of Transport, and also enjoy a rendezvous on SUPs. Alternatively, you can also opt for the more comfortable “Ufschötti” beach. Here in the lakeside park, you’ll find generous natural shady spots.
The lido of the hearts is also hidden away very close to the Lucerne Youth Hostel: In the Rotsee lido, you can really get into the mood to relax. No sandy beach, but extra delicious fish fry and live music in the evening.
The lido in Lucerne is located right next to the Verkehrshaus, the Museum of Transport
Even more beach by the lake: Lausanne and Leissigen
In the Lake Geneva region, the best sandy beaches are concentrated around Vidy. Together, you have no less than 1.5 km of beach, including a bike hire and bars (at the Theâtre de Vidy). Conveniently, all this is within the radius of the friendly Lausanne Jeunotel.
Lake Thun is no slouch when it comes to panoramic views and beaches. Either you head for the expansive Thun “Strämu”, where the water drops glitter in competition with snow-covered mountain peaks. Or, find a smaller bay for quieter swims. An automatic plus for guests of Leissigen Youth Hostel, by the way, as the Ovaltine House has its own lake beach.
Travelita has often taken to the road for the Swiss Youth Hostels. As a Swiss travel blogger, she travels by the motto: “The world begins on your doorstep.”
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Leissigen Youth Hostel’s own bathing beach is also an inviting place to spend the evening. Picture © Travelita
All water rats who still haven’t had enough can find more hostels near the water here, also with direct lake access Water fun at Swiss Youth Hostels.
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