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About this place
Lac des Taillères is a lake in the La Brévine valley, canton of Neuchâtel, Switzerland, sitting at roughly 1,040 m above sea level. It covers 0.45 km² and fills the lowest hollow of a valley known as the "Siberia of Switzerland". In winter it becomes a natural ice rink; in summer it draws walkers and picnickers.
Where is Lac des Taillères?
The lake lies in the Neuchâtel Jura, next to the village of La Brévine, on the road towards Les Verrières. Its coordinates are about 46.97° N, 6.57° E. The surroundings are a wide, flat valley framed by forested ridges and pastures.
Why is it so cold here?
The La Brévine valley is a basin where cold air pools. On 12 January 1987 the village recorded -41.8 °C, the lowest officially measured temperature in Switzerland. Readings around -30 °C are not unusual, so the lake freezes fast.
What can you do in winter?
The frozen lake is billed as the largest natural ice rink in Switzerland. Ice holds skaters and walkers once it is at least 10 cm thick, and in deep winter it can reach about 30 cm. Access to the ice is free, and skates can be rented on site for around CHF 5 an hour. Check current ice conditions before you go.
Each February La Brévine hosts the Fête du froid, a celebration of the cold launched in 2012 for the 25th anniversary of the record frost. It draws thousands of visitors, with sleigh rides among the activities.
What can you do in summer?
When the ice is gone, the shore is used for picnics and swimming, and walking trails circle the lake. The shorter loop is about 8.2 km with roughly 120 m of climbing and takes around 2.5 hours. The longer loop, about 13 km, passes through La Brévine village, climbs about 250 m and takes some 3 hours 45 minutes. Anglers can fish for pike and perch with a permit.
How do you get to Lac des Taillères?
- By car: from La Brévine follow the signs towards Les Verrières; there is a car park by the lake.
- By public transport: take the train to Le Locle, then the PostBus towards La Brévine and change to the stop "Les Taillères, Bout du Lac".
Frequently asked questions
Can you ice skate here?
Yes, when the ice is thick enough. Using the ice is free, and skate rental costs about CHF 5 per hour.
When is the best time to visit?
January and February for skating, when the frosts are strongest. Summer and early autumn suit walks and picnics.
Is there an entrance fee?
No. The lake and the rink are free to use. You only pay for equipment rental and, if you fish, a fishing permit.
How long does a walk around the lake take?
The shorter loop takes about 2.5 hours; the longer one via La Brévine takes about 3 hours 45 minutes.
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