Best lakes around Donneloye, a municipality in the canton of Vaud, Switzerland, are situated in a region rich with diverse aquatic environments. While Donneloye itself does not feature large lakes, the surrounding area offers significant natural attractions. The region is known for its picturesque landscapes, including major lakes like Lake Geneva and Lake Neuchâtel, which provide various recreational opportunities. These bodies of water contribute to the natural appeal of the Vaud canton.
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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Very nice path and a great view.
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Currently, the walkways on the shore have been demolished and some passages are impassable.
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Very nice sandy beach, perfect for relaxing.
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Beautiful sandy beach with campsite.
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Nicer bike path connection between Concise and Grandson always along the coast. The better alternative to the main street. It rolled comfortably over small village connecting roads without traffic. Tarmac is good.
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Just enjoy the scenery, and the ice coffee at the restaurant next door
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This traffic-free route is part of the SwitzerlandMobility network. It is a much more pleasant alternative to the cantonal road when going around Lake Neuchâtel
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Above Lake Neuchâtel there is a vantage point on a Jura cliff with a great view of the moorland and the lake.
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The region offers diverse natural beauty. You can find tranquil settings like Cheyres Nature Reserve, which is excellent for observing birds and frogs. Lac de Bret, though not directly in Donneloye, is a picturesque natural lake known for its clear waters and surrounding greenery. Lake Geneva provides stunning alpine backdrops.
Yes, several spots are ideal for families. Sandy beach at La Menthue, Lake Neuchâtel, features a large sandy area and a playground. Yvonand Beach is another sandy option perfect for relaxation. Cheyres Nature Reserve and Pro Natura are also marked as family-friendly, offering nature observation opportunities.
The lakes offer various water activities. Lac de Bret is suitable for fishing, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming during summer. Lake Geneva provides extensive options including boat tours, swimming, sailing, and other watersports. Lake Neuchâtel, with its sandy beaches like La Menthue and Yvonand, is great for swimming and relaxing by the water.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. Around Lac de Bret, you can enjoy an easy 4 km loop, the "Tour du Lac de Bret," or more challenging routes like the 8 km "Randonnée de Montécheroux." The historic "Sentier des Toblerones" also passes near Lac de Bret. For more general hiking and cycling routes in the broader region, you can explore guides like Cycling around Donneloye.
The Cheyres Nature Reserve, located on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, is a significant protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna. It's part of the Grande Cariçaie shoreline. Pro Natura also offers opportunities to immerse yourself in protected nature, with viewing platforms and observation stations.
The lakes offer diverse and beautiful views. Lake Geneva is famous for its stunning backdrop of the Alps and Jura Mountains. From Lake Neuchâtel, you can enjoy expansive views along the length of the lake, as seen from spots like Sandy beach at La Menthue. The Lakeshore Scenery at Lake Neuchâtel also provides picturesque vistas of waterfowl and plant diversity.
Absolutely. The region around Donneloye and its lakes is popular for cycling. You can find various routes, including road cycling and gravel biking. For example, there are routes like the "View of Lake Neuchâtel – Estavayer-le-Lac loop" and "Yverdon Beach – Yverdon-les-Bains Old Town loop" near Lake Neuchâtel. You can find more options in guides such as Road Cycling Routes around Donneloye and Gravel biking around Donneloye.
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty. Many enjoy observing wildlife at places like Cheyres Nature Reserve, where you can spot frogs and birds. The sandy beaches, such as La Menthue and Yvonand Beach, are loved for their relaxing atmosphere and Mediterranean ambiance. The diverse plant and waterfowl life along Lake Neuchâtel is also a highlight for many.
Yes, some of the popular lake spots offer dining options. For instance, Sandy beach at La Menthue, Lake Neuchâtel, has a restaurant, and Yvonand Beach also has a restaurant nearby where you can enjoy the scenery.
While Donneloye is close to major lakes, Lac de Bret stands out as a picturesque and tranquil natural lake. It's an important drinking water reservoir, nestled in a green setting, offering remarkable peace away from larger crowds. It's ideal for nature lovers seeking a quieter experience.
The summer months are generally the best time for swimming in the lakes. During this period, the water temperatures are most pleasant for activities like swimming, stand-up paddleboarding, and enjoying the sandy beaches at Lake Neuchâtel.


Still not found your perfect lake around Donneloye? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.