Self-Guided Switzerland's Three Lakes Loop Bike Tour

Set between the Jura Mountains and the Swiss Plateau, this cycling journey explores Switzerland’s scenic Three Lakes region, linking Lake Biel, Lake Murten, and Lake Neuchâtel through quiet countryside, historic towns, and vineyard-covered hills.

Starting and ending in the bilingual lakeside town of Biel, the route follows gentle cycling paths along the water, across fertile farming plains, and through charming medieval settlements. Murten welcomes riders with its preserved old town and arcaded streets, while the spa town of Yverdon-les-Bains reflects a long bathing tradition dating back to Roman times.

Along the way, the landscapes constantly shift—from lakeside promenades and vineyard terraces to peaceful river valleys and the vast wetlands of the Grande Cariçaie, Switzerland’s largest marshland reserve, known for its rich birdlife and natural habitats.

Tour Type

Self-Guided

Level

moderate

Avg. Daily Distance

44 km / 28 mi

Cycling Days

5

Lodging

Casual+ Inns

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

Highlights

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Beautiful Three Lakes Scenery

Cyclists enjoy stunning views of Lake Biel, Lake Murten, and Lake Neuchâtel while riding through peaceful lakeside paths, vineyards, and green countryside. The scenery offers a mix of water landscapes and gentle hills.

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Historic Towns and Culture

The tour passes through charming towns such as Murten, Laupen, and Neuchâtel. Visitors can explore medieval streets, old city walls, castles, and local culture that reflect the rich history of the region.

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Nature of the Grande Cariçaie Wetlands

Cycle along the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, passing the Grande Cariçaie, Switzerland’s largest wetland reserve. This protected landscape of reeds, marshes, and lakeside habitats is home to abundant birdlife and offers a peaceful contrast to the historic towns along the route.

Itinerary

Brief Itinerary

Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.

Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Biel

Arrive in Biel/Bienne, a charming bilingual town located on the shores of Lake Biel and at the foothills of the Jura Mountains. After checking in at your hotel, you can explore the lakeside promenade, old town streets, or relax at one of the cafés.

This day is free for you to settle in and prepare for the cycling journey ahead.

Meals: Breakfast
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Day 2: Murten

Begin cycling through beautiful lake landscapes and countryside toward the medieval town of Murten. The route passes vineyards and quiet rural paths. Upon arrival, explore Murten’s charming old town, arcaded streets, and historic city walls overlooking the lake.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 47 km / 29 mi
Elevation Gain: 215 m
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Day 3: Murten-Laupen-Murten Loop

Today you enjoy a scenic circular ride that begins and ends in Murten. Cycle through the countryside between Lake Murten and the Saane Valley while passing fields, forests, and gentle rolling hills shaped by ancient glaciers. The route leads to the picturesque town of Laupen, known for its charming arcaded houses and historic atmosphere.

You may take a short break to explore the town center before beginning the return journey. The ride back follows peaceful rural roads and passes Lake Schiffenen, offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 50 km / 31 mi
Elevation Gain: 435 m
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Day 4: Yverdon-les-Bains

Leave Murten and continue your journey toward Yverdon-les-Bains, a historic spa town on the southern shore of Lake Neuchâtel. On the way you pass Avenches, which was once the capital of Roman Helvetia and still features impressive historical remains. The route then continues across the wide Broye plain before reaching the shores of Lake Neuchâtel.

You cycle along the famous Grande Cariçaie wetlands, a protected nature reserve home to many bird species and unique plant life. The day ends in Yverdon-les-Bains, known for its thermal spa heritage.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 52 km / 32 mi
Elevation Gain: 290 m
Accommodation: Hotel du Théâtre
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Day 5: Neuchâtel

Today’s ride follows the beautiful shoreline of Lake Neuchâtel toward the elegant town of Neuchâtel. The route takes you through scenic vineyard regions such as Bonvillars and past small wine growing villages surrounded by green hills.

You will pass castles, historic buildings, and charming lakeside spots where you can stop for refreshments or enjoy a relaxing break by the water. The journey ends in Neuchâtel, a lively town known for its medieval old quarter, lakeside atmosphere, and impressive castle overlooking the city.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 41 km / 25 mi
Elevation Gain: 280 m
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Day 6: Biel

On the final cycling day you ride from Neuchâtel back toward Biel/Bienne along the northern shore of Lake Biel. The route offers beautiful panoramic views of the lake, nearby vineyards, and the Jura Mountains rising in the distance. Along the way you may see St. Peter’s Island, a scenic island that adds to the charm of the landscape. The cycling route remains pleasant and scenic as you approach Biel, marking the successful completion of your journey through the Three Lakes region.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 32 km / 20 mi
Elevation Gain: 250 m
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Day 7: Biel

After breakfast, your cycling tour comes to an end in Biel/Bienne. Depending on your travel plans, you may take a train to Zurich Airport for your onward journey or choose to extend your stay in the region. If time allows, you may explore more of Biel’s old town, visit local museums, or enjoy one last relaxing walk along the lakeshore before departing.

Meals: Breakfast

Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.

Map

Accommodation

Each accommodation has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

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Mercure Hotel Plaza (4-Star)

Located in the heart of Biel, Mercure Hotel Plaza offers comfortable modern rooms just a short walk from Lake Biel and the historic town center. The hotel features contemporary amenities, a restaurant serving regional cuisine, and easy access to the railway station, making it a convenient base for starting and ending your Three Lakes cycling journey.

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Hotel Murtenhof & Krone

Overlooking the picturesque Lake Murten, Hotel Murtenhof & Krone combines historic charm with elegant comfort. Set beside the medieval old town and city walls, the hotel offers beautifully styled rooms and panoramic lake views, creating a memorable stay in one of Switzerland’s best-preserved historic towns.

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Hotel du Théâtre

Hotel du Théâtre is a charming boutique hotel located in the center of Yverdon-les-Bains, near the historic old town and thermal spa district. Housed in a historic building, the property offers individually decorated rooms and a peaceful garden terrace, providing a relaxed atmosphere after a day of cycling along Lake Neuchâtel.

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Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac

Situated directly on the shores of Lake Neuchâtel, Best Western Premier Hotel Beaulac offers stylish lakeside accommodation with modern rooms and sweeping waterfront views. The hotel features an elegant restaurant and rooftop bar, and is ideally located near Neuchâtel’s charming old town and lakeside promenade.

Dates and Prices

Book with Confidence: For scheduled group departures, your 20% deposit is fully refundable until 60 days before departure. Solo travellers booking 120+ days in advance can avoid a mandatory Single Supplement. See terms & conditions.



Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?

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Essential Info

Inclusions

LODGING

All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).

bike

Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.

Luggage Transfer

Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.

meals

Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.

Exclusions

Airport pickup

We recommend to book direclty from airport.

Airport drop

We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.

Beverages

Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.

Gratuity

Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.

A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

Bike Image

Tour de Suisse Country Bike or similar

touring

Included in your trip price

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Flyer C-Series E-Bike or similar

ebike

Available at a surcharge

Start

Biel

Finish

Biel

Fly-In

Zurich Airport

Fly-Out

Zurich Airport

Arrival

Your tour starts in Biel/Bienne. The most convenient airport for international travelers is Zurich Airport (ZRH). After landing, take a direct train from Zurich Airport railway station to Biel/Bienne. Trains run frequently and the journey usually takes about 1 hour 20 minutes. Tickets can be purchased at the station or online through Swiss Federal Railways. Taxis are also available outside the arrivals terminal, but trains are the fastest and most convenient option for reaching Biel.

Departure

Your tour ends in Biel/Bienne. To depart, take a train from Biel/Bienne railway station to Zurich Airport. The journey typically takes about 1 hour 20 minutes with regular connections throughout the day. You can book tickets at the station or online with Swiss Federal Railways. For convenience, taxis are available from hotels to Biel/Bienne station if needed before boarding your train to the airport.

The best weather for cycling in the Three Lakes region is from May to September. During this period temperatures usually range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), which is comfortable for long rides. June to August offers the warmest conditions around 20°C to 27°C (68°F to 81°F) with longer daylight hours. April and October can still be pleasant but temperatures drop to about 10°C to 18°C (50°F to 64°F) and weather may be less predictable. November to March is colder with temperatures around 0°C to 8°C (32°F to 46°F), making cycling less ideal due to cold weather and shorter days.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Mixed

April

Good

May

Best

June

Best

July

Best

August

Best

September

Best

October

Good

November

Offseason

December

Offseason

Best

Good

Mixed

Offseason

Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.

Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear

  • Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
  • Padded cycling shorts.
  • Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
  • Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
  • Synthetic cycling socks.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
  • Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
  • Rain jacket or windbreaker.
  • Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).

Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.

Clothing

  • Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
  • Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
  • Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
  • Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
  • Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
  • Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.

Other Necessities

  • Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
  • Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
  • Plug socket adaptor.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.

Pro Tips

  • Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
  • Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
  • Pack light to leave room for shopping.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.

Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.

We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.

Is proof of medical insurance required?

Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.

Can I use my credit card insurance?

Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.

Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?

We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.

For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.

Before Your Tour

When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.

At the Start of the Tour

The setup experience varies by destination:

  • In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.


  • In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.


All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.

During the Tour

You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.

What to Expect

The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:

  • You start with the correct frame size

  • You can fine-tune your comfort easily

  • You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route


It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.

We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.

Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.

To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.

A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.

We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.

For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.

Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.

For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.

Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.

Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.

Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.

It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.

We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.

We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.

Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.

For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.

For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.

We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.

We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.

On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.

Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.

We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.

The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.

Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.

Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)

Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.

Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.

You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.

The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.

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