Discover Delley-Portalban

Portalban lies on the eastern shore of Lake Neuchâtel, opposite the city of Neuchâtel and beside the Ruisseau de la Contentenetta stream. In a straight line, the village is 11 kilometres north of Payerne. Portalban-Dessous lies on the flat strip of lakeshore at an altitude of 435 metres, while Portalban-Dessus is on the higher plateau at 475 metres. The two names thus refer to different types of terrain: the lakeshore strip and the plateau.

Lakeshore and natural environment

Along the lake is a flat strip of lakeshore up to 700 metres wide. Apart from the area by Portalban, this strip is covered by a belt of reeds and swamp forest (Les Grèves). The Chevroux–Portalban waterbird reserve on the southeastern shore is characterised by extensive reed beds.

In winter, the reserve serves as a resting place for numerous waterbirds; in summer, many breeding birds use it as a place to stay. The area is classified as being of international importance. Portalban is considered one of the “windows” onto the Grande Cariçaie nature reserve. The time of year is a practical consideration when planning your trip: in winter, the area serves as a resting place, while in summer it is used by breeding birds. Navigation is subject to strict nature conservation measures near the Grande Cariçaie reed beds at Portalban.

Water sports and cycling route

At Portalban’s water-sports spot, Swisskite is the local kitesurfing, wingfoiling and pumpfoiling club. Portasub offers children and adults an introduction to scuba diving, accompanied safely by an experienced diver. Portasub provides all the equipment for introductory dives. You can also book Portasub for your next dive.

On the Mittelland Route, Portalban is described as being approximately halfway along Stage 6 between Ins and Yverdon. The entire stage is 51 kilometres long and rated easy. Two details are worth distinguishing when planning: 51 kilometres is the length of the whole stage, while Portalban’s position on it is described only approximately as halfway.

Boat connections and getting there

Boat connections run between Portalban and Neuchâtel, and between Portalban and Cudrefin. If you plan to include one of them, check the timetable in advance. A bus runs from Avenches to the “Portalban, village” stop; from there, continue on foot along Route du Port to the end. The options described differ in the destinations served by the boat connections, the bus journey from Avenches, and the cycling stage between Ins and Yverdon.

Summer market and local produce

The annual summer market is a local tradition in Portalban. Craftspeople and producers showcase a wide range of local crafts and products. The market canteen serves fried fish and refreshments. If you would like to plan your stay around the market, check the specific dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Estavayer-Le-Lac, Rueyres-Les-Prés, Murist, Montagny Fr, Vuissens.

Return to the main travel overview: Broye.