The small town of Erlach lies at the western end of the Bielersee. The castle and old town comprise one of the most original small-town scenes in Switzerland. The popular excursion destination of St. Petersinsel can be reached from Erlach on foot or by boat.

«I have stayed at many lovely places; but nowhere have I felt so truly happy as on St. Petersinsel in the middle of the Bielersee, and I think back to no stay with such sweet longing» noted poet and philosopher Jean-Jacques Rousseau, who as a political refugee, found sanctuary here for six weeks in autumn 1765.

Goethe and other notables later followed in Rousseau’s footsteps. Jean-Jacques Rousseau’s room can be visited at today’s Hotel-Restaurant St. Petersinsel, a former Cluniac monastery.

St. Petersinsel was created during the last Ice Age when the Rhone Glacier stretched as far as the Jura. Today, after numerous water corrections, the much-used Heidenweg forms a natural bridge between Erlach and St. Petersinsel, about an hour’s walk. Heidenweg is surrounded by reed beds and scrubland, a protected habitat for countless birds and other small animals.

The Bielersee offers all water-sport lovers the chance to enjoy their hobbies and the Erlach lido is an inviting spot on warm days. Erlach Castle is one of the oldest castles in Canton Bern. In the 13th century, the old town was gradually extended, laying the foundation stone for today’s tiny town. Shady foot paths lead through the forested hills of the Jolimont and a «good drop» grows on the vineyard slopes. Children love the little animal park in Tschugg on the Jolimont.

Highlights

• St. Petersinsel – pure peace, which once even enthralled Rousseau. The aim of a cruise on the Bielersee or a stroll from Erlach.
• Three Lakes Trip – linked by canals and with a scheduled boat service, the Bielersee, Neuenburgersee and Murtensee offer an invitation to an extended cruise.