There is a gem in Lake Biel: St. Peter's Island. Due to the lowering of the lake level as a result of the Jura water correction, a land bridge was created between the Jolimont near Erlach and the island: the Heidenweg, a moorland landscape of national importance. Surrounded by reeds and bushes, it now offers the opportunity to reach the island by land. This habitat of numerous birds is protected along with the island's forests. The island can also be easily reached by water.

Today's peninsula can be reached on foot from the pretty town of Erlach via the four kilometer long "Heideweg", in summer with the Navette from Erlach or by boat from La Neuveville, Ligerz (Lake Biel) or through the Zihl Canal from Neuchâtel.

On the peninsula, a nature reserve with reed banks and small sandy beaches, there was a modest estate with leased vineyard plots in Rousseau's time, when it gained European importance through his description in the 18th century. The island became a stop on educational trips through Switzerland, then a popular excursion destination that offers peace and enjoyment of nature.

The monastery on Peter's Island, founded in 1127, is now an award-winning hotel and restaurant with a unique ambience. It's worth stopping here and thoroughly enjoying the remarkable view before heading back to Erlach.

Source myswitzerland.com/de-de/reiseziel/st-petersinsel-im-bielersee

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Kissling Walter

January 25, 2025

Comfortable mountain trail with a great view of Lake Biel and St. Peter Island. 👍

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Elevation 510 m

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Saturday 1 November

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70 %

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Max wind speed: 6.0 km/h

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Location: Twann-Tüscherz, Biel/Bienne, Nidau, Bern, Espace Mittelland, Switzerland

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St. Peter's Island in Lake Biel

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