On pilgrim and vineyard paths

From Twann station, follow the village street towards Neuchâtel. After crossing the Twannbach, you reach Kleintwann, which belongs to the municipality of Ligerz. Opposite the Restaurant zur Ilge, the ascent of the so-called Pilgrim's Way begins. The narrow winegrowers' path winds along the vineyard walls to the intersection with the Ligerz-Schernelz road. With every step, the view widens over Lake Biel and St. Peter's Island. On level ground, continue now through the vineyard slope to the church of Ligerz. The well-known late Gothic sacred building with its distinctive tower is situated at a splendid vantage point halfway above the lake. The following climb to Schernelz is steep. Along a vineyard path lined with dry stone walls, you reach the Festi group of houses, whose name goes back to the former castle of the barons of Ligerz (Gléresse). After passing under the Ligerz-Prêles funicular, you arrive at the Fornelgraben. This once formed the border between Old Bern and the state of the prince-bishops; today it marks both the municipal and language boundary. Through open forest, the path winds with slight ascents and descents between vineyards and high rock walls to Maupras. Along the way, numerous views through the vines and over the lake are delightful. The following crossing over a rock ledge (caution with small children!) to La Neuveville is short but quite steep. The picturesque medieval small town on the shore of Lake Biel features various remarkable buildings. The narrow alleys, closely built houses, and two banner bearer fountains reveal the Burgundian influence on the architecture. In the middle of town rises the mighty Tour Carrée (1520). Nearby is the late Gothic town hall with a splendid hall and local museum. The most historically significant building is the originally Romanesque Blanche Eglise east of the old town, with valuable frescoes from the 14th century.