The best walks and hikes around Avenches
4.5
(55)
340
hikers
35
hikes
Hiking around Avenches offers diverse landscapes, combining historical sites with natural features. The region is characterized by its location between Lake Murten's shores and lush forests like the Bois de Châtel. Hikers can explore the gentle rolling hills of the Broye Plain, vineyards, and significant nature reserves such as the Grande Cariçaie. The area also features well-preserved Roman heritage, including the ancient city of Aventicum.
Best hiking trails around Avenches
- The most popular hiking route is Roman Theater of Aventicum…
Last updated: April 28, 2026
4.6
(7)
16
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(7)
22
hikers
10.3km
02:37
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(4)
23
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.7
(3)
13
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
5
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Incredible view of Lake Murten, fireplace, tables and cabins
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Very nice hike
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We started the walk from the Salavaux village hall and followed the Broye towards the lake. Then we joined the edge of the lake to follow it for one or two kilometers and ended up returning by the Vita trail. A great walk that we like to do out of season.
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The city wall must have been huge if such a gate is so far away from the city...
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THE EAST GATE - A MONUMENTAL BUILDING IN A DOMINANT LOCATION High above the town center on the plain is the East Gate - one of the two monumental entrances to the city wall of Aventicum. The construction of the city wall around 72 AD created new entrances to the city. The one on the east side is controlled by a gate building. This square building measuring 28 x 20 m is flanked on the outside by two octagonal towers. Two wide passages, which cross a round open-air courtyard, were intended for vehicles and two narrower side passages were reserved for pedestrians. Two openings on the city side allowed access to the two side towers and to the upper floor of the gate building. The preserved architectural elements testify to the magnificent and richly decorated character of the facades. In this way they announced the political power and economic prosperity of the Aventicum colony both internally and externally. LA PORTE DE L'EST - UN OUVRAGE MONUMENTAL - EN SITUATION DOMINANTE Au-dessus du center-ville situé dans la plaine se trouve la porte de l'Est - l'une des deux entrées monumentales du mur d'enceinte d'Aventicum. Avec la construction du mur d'enceinte vers 72 apr. J.-C., de new accesses to the ville sont créés. The oriental access is controlled by a porte, édifice quadrangulaire de 28 x 20 m wide on the exterior of two octogonal tours. Deux larges couloirs cen-traux traversant une cour circulaire à ciel ouvert sont réservés aux véhicules et deux passages lateéraux, plus étroits, aux piétons. On you can enter the two lateral tours and access the upper level of the porte property for two outer tours on the other side of the city. The architectonic elements preserve the appearance of the ostentatious character and rich decoration of the façades. Ils annonçaient ainsi, tant à l'intérieur qu'à l'extérieur, la puissance politique et la prosperité économique de la colonie d'Aventicum. THE EAST GATE - A MONUMENTAL STRUCTURE - ON A DOMINANT LOCATION Above the city center located in the plain is the East Gate - one of the two monumental gates of the city wall of Aventicum. With the construction of the city wall around 72 AD, new entrances to the city were created. The eastern one was monitored by a 28 x 20 m quadrangular gate flanked by two external octogonal towers. Two wide central passages crossing a circular open-air courtyard were reserved for vehicles, and two more narrow lateral passages served for pedestrians. One could enter the two lateral towers and reach the upper floor of the gate proper through two openings on the city side. The preserved architectural elements suggest that the facades were richly adorned, thus boasting the political power and the economic prosperity of the colony of Aventicum to both the local population and the outer world.
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Beautiful path along the water that turns into a real jungle path in summer. Here you can observe ducks, dragonflies and other animals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are there around Avenches?
There are over 30 hiking routes around Avenches, offering a diverse range of experiences. These include easy walks along the lake and more moderate paths through historical sites and forests.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Avenches?
Yes, Avenches offers many easy trails perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Salavaux Beach loop from District de la Broye-Vully is an easy 5.7 km route along Lake Murten. Another accessible option is the Roman Theater of Aventicum – East Gate of Aventicum loop from Avenches, which is 4 km and explores ancient Roman ruins.
What historical sites can I explore while hiking in Avenches?
Avenches, as the former Roman capital of Helvetia (Aventicum), is rich in Roman heritage. You can hike through the ancient city's vestiges, including the well-preserved Roman amphitheater. The Roman Theater of Aventicum – Avenches Roman Amphitheatre loop from Avenches is a moderate 11.4 km path that specifically explores these historical ruins.
Are there any circular hiking routes in the Avenches area?
Yes, many trails around Avenches are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Salavaux Beach loop from District de la Broye-Vully and the View of Avenches – Salavaux Beach loop from Avenches, both offering varied scenery.
What natural features can I expect to see on hikes around Avenches?
The region boasts diverse natural landscapes. You'll find wild lakeshores, particularly along Lake Murten, and lush forests like the Bois de Châtel. The Broye Plain features gentle rolling hills and vineyards. The area also includes significant nature reserves such as the Grande Cariçaie, Switzerland's largest lake marsh, and the natural reserves at the north-east end of Lake Neuchâtel.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots along the trails?
Yes, several routes offer scenic views. For instance, the View of Avenches – Salavaux Beach loop from Avenches provides vistas of the town and lakeside paths. You can also visit the Reine Berthe Shelter for panoramic views of Avenches, the Broye Valley, Lake Murten, and the Jura Mountains.
Can I hike with my dog in Avenches?
Many trails in the Avenches region are suitable for hiking with dogs. It's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves or near livestock, and to check local regulations for specific areas.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Avenches?
The region is enjoyable for hiking throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with vineyards changing colors. Summer is ideal for combining hikes with lake activities, while some trails may be accessible for winter walks, especially those on lower elevations.
Are there any unique attractions or wildlife to look out for?
Beyond Roman ruins, hiking trails often pass by the Swiss National Stud Farm, where you can see horses. Avenches is also the only nesting place for storks in French-speaking Switzerland, so keep an eye out for these birds. The nature reserves, like the Grande Cariçaie, are sanctuaries for unique wildlife.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Avenches?
The hiking routes in Avenches are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 50 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the blend of Roman heritage with beautiful lakefront paths and forested areas, as well as the variety of options suitable for different ability levels.
Are there trails that go along Lake Murten?
Absolutely. Avenches is ideally situated near Lake Murten, and several trails offer beautiful lakeside experiences. The Salavaux Beach loop from District de la Broye-Vully is a popular easy route that follows the tranquil shores of Lake Murten, and the "Toes in the water" route is another option for lakeside exploration.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the hiking trails?
The medieval town of Avenches itself offers historical charm with alleys and a 13th-century castle, providing options for dining and accommodation. Additionally, you can find various huts and shelters in the surrounding area, such as the Galmhütte (Galmwald Forest Cabin) or the Avenches Youth Hostel, which can serve as resting points or overnight stays.
Most popular attractions around Avenches
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