The best traffic-free bike rides around Lac de Morat / Murtensee

There are over 270 dedicated no-traffic touring cycling routes in the Lac de Morat / Murtensee region. This includes 74 easy routes, 140 moderate routes, and 56 more challenging options, ensuring a suitable ride for every skill level.

The region offers a varied terrain perfect for touring cyclists. You'll find generally flat lakeside paths, gentle ascents through the picturesque Mont Vully vineyards, and tranquil stretches of woodland and reed belts. The routes often provide stunning panoramic views of the lake, extending to the Alps and the Jura mountains from elevated points.

Yes, many routes are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. A popular option is the Lake Murten Tour, which offers continuous lake views. Another great choice is the Murten Old Town – View of Lake Murten loop from Murten/Morat, combining scenic views with historical exploration.

The routes often pass by significant attractions. You can explore the medieval Murten Old Town with its well-preserved ramparts, or visit Grengspitz, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements. The Southwestern shore of Lake Murten at Salavaux offers a beautiful sandy beach for relaxation.

The region is enjoyable for cycling from spring to autumn. The lake's shallow depth ensures pleasant swimming temperatures during these months, making it ideal for combining cycling with a refreshing dip. Spring and early autumn offer comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours.

Absolutely. Many of the 74 easy routes are suitable for families and beginners, featuring mostly flat terrain along the lakeside or through gentle vineyard slopes. The Murten Old Town – View of Lake Murten loop from Murten/Morat is an easy option that offers scenic views without significant climbs.

Many of the no-traffic paths are suitable for cycling with dogs, especially those that follow lakeside trails or quiet woodland paths. Always ensure your dog is well-behaved and on a leash where required, and be mindful of other cyclists and pedestrians. Check specific route details for any restrictions.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from nearly 200 reviews. Cyclists often praise the stunning lake views, the tranquility of the no-traffic paths, and the diverse landscapes that include vineyards, forests, and charming historical towns like Murten.

Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the Three Lakes Tour is a moderate route spanning nearly 50 km. While still offering no-traffic sections, it provides a greater distance and a broader exploration of the surrounding landscape, including the famous 'largest vegetable garden in Switzerland' (Seeland).

The towns and villages around Lac de Morat, such as Murten and Salavaux, offer various cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Many routes pass directly through or near these settlements, making it convenient to find refreshments or plan an overnight stay. The Mont Vully vineyards also feature local eateries and wineries.

While many routes are relatively flat, particularly those directly along the lake, some do include gentle ascents. For instance, routes that venture into the Mont Vully vineyards will have some gradual climbs, offering rewarding panoramic views. An easy route like the Murten Old Town – View of Lake Murten loop from Murten/Morat has an elevation gain of less than 90 meters, making it very accessible.