Above the lake through the vines
Best Time of Year
- JAN
- FEB
- MAR
- APR
- MAY
- JUN
- JUL
- AUG
- SEP
- OCT
- NOV
- DEC
Description
From the Twann train station, proceed along the village street towards Neuchâtel. After crossing the Twannbach, you find yourself in Chlyne Twann. Here begins a gentle ascent to the pilgrimage path. The narrow winegrower's path winds along the vine walls; with each step, the view of Lake Biel and St. Peter's Island widens. The Ligerz-Schernelz road is crossed; now on level path, it leads through the vineyard slope to the well-known church of Ligerz. It is located in a magnificent viewpoint halfway above the lake. Shortly thereafter, a path with the crossing of the Ligerz-Prêles funicular railway leads down to the lake into the wine-growing village of Ligerz. Returning to the starting point Twann can be done via the beach path, which also offers beautiful views of the nearby lake and its surroundings.
Background: Twann, Ligerz, and their surroundings are a heartland of viticulture. A papal letter documents that wine has been cultivated on Lake Biel since the year 866. Ligerz is located directly on the German-French language border. The small village has managed to preserve its character as a wine village by the lake. Southern charm, influenced by the lake location and sun exposure, also emanates from Twann. The Ligerz church, which towers high above the village, is a landmark for the region and one of the most remarkable places of worship in the Bern area. The original chapel had been expanded into a pilgrimage church in the Middle Ages.