Fribourg Region Press Kit

FRIBOURG REGION PRESS KIT

www.fribourgregion.ch Contents

Traditions 3

Culinary Delights 8

Culture and History 13

Nature Lovers 18

Active Outdoors 23

Autumn 29 Winter 32 8

Culinary Delights Bénichon, how locals celebrate their harvest thanksgiving festival

Nature Lover 13 Across Lake Murten with the First Lady Culture and History Rich heritage, attractively straged

– 2 – TRADITIONS PRESERVING FRIBOURG’S HERITAGE In Fribourg Region, living traditions are still primarily the centuries-old transhumant culture with its colour- rooted in the daily life of the locals. Their value for so- ful Alpine ascents and descents, varied crafts and cial cohesion is recognised and awareness of cultural workmanship. Catholic traditions with numerous pro- heritage is part of the school curriculum. Customs are cessions and the ubiquitous choral singing, as well also appreciated by visitors from all over the world, as historic anniversaries with patriotic and military who often witness scenes that seem to originate from connotations, are very popular. More information is a bygone age. An inventory of the living traditions available at www.lebendige-traditionen.ch. of Fribourg Region was made under the auspices www.fribourgregion.ch of the Musée gruérien in Bulle and divided into four main groups. For visitors, the emphasis is naturally on

FRIBOURG CULTURE, A LIVING TRADITION

Poya painting: In the Fribourg patois, the syllables “po-ya” signify the Al- May singing: On May 1st or the day pine ascent in early summer, when the cows and goats are brought to before, the children of Fribourg higher Alpine pastures. However, it is now understood to mean the visual go from house to house, singing representation of this important and symbolic event. Poya paintings have to announce the spring. Many, for adorned the farmhouse façades of Fribourg’s Pre-Alps since the early example the Gruyère youth as- 19th century and this art is still practised. This typical Fribourg rural art sociations, wear traditional cos- can be admired in the villages and in particular, on the Poya Themed Trail. tumes, namely the dzaquillon and bredzon on this occasion.

– 3 – TRADITIONS

MUSÉE GRUÉRIEN SHINGLE MAKER

The tour of the interactive Musée gruérien in Bulle is Léon Doutaz has devoted himself completely to the an emotional journey through time. Models, scenes, traditional craft of shingle making. He is one of five films and sound sequences, from the Hutbändeli men in the canton who learnt this trade from scratch. collection, traditional costumes and old tools used Besides strength and concentration, he needs an by herdsmen, to the traditional farmhouse on a 1:1 excellent feeling for the wood to ensure that his roof scale, depict the varied cultural heritage. Tribute is, of will be in a position to control the temperature of the course, paid to the most famous ambassador for the chalet. He welcomes visitors interested in learning region, the cheese Le Gruyère AOP. more about this traditional craft. www.musee-gruerien.ch

BEARDED MEN TRADITIONAL ALPINE CHALETS

The “barbus” of La Gruyère pre- Alpine chalets with wooden roofs are part of the preserved landscapes of serve the transhumant traditions… Fribourg’s Pre-Alps. Six traditional chalets are situated along the 12,4 km Back in those days, shaving was hiking trail from Vounetse to the village of Charmey. Good to know: the difficult, but wearing a smart shirt wooden roofs have a lifespan of approximately 40 years. under the bredzon during festivals was a matter of honour.

ALPINE DESCENT, HIGHLIGHT OF THE YEAR The Alpine descent is of the utmost importance for There is also a sermon, market stalls, folk music the Pre-Alpine Region. Humans and animals return to and customs. It would be impossible to pack more the valley after four months on the Alpine pastures. traditions into one day: Schwarzsee and Charmey on The festival pays homage to the herdsmen, who have September 28th, Albeuve and Semsales on October assumed a lot of responsibility for the animals and for 3rd 2020. In Jaun, the Alpine descent of the sheep cheese production. Traditional Alpine descents are has been celebrated for over 400 years. There are a feast for the eyes! The highlight is the procession over 400 animals which, upon arriving in the valley, of animals adorned with flowers and wearing their are sorted (separated) and loaded... or sold. A large magnificent bells, accompanied by proud women market ensures that no one has to go home without in their dzaquillon and herdsmen in their bredzon. souvenirs. September 23rd 2020

– 4 – TRADITIONS

WOODEN SPOONS EIGHT-COURSE MENU

Carved wooden spoons are one of the many traditions Once a year, the entire canton of Fribourg celebrates of La Gruyère. Herdsmen were making them at the a Bénichon, the harvest thanksgiving festival that also end of the 17th century to ladle double cream or Soupe commemorates the homecoming at the end of the de chalet in the Gruyère Chalet. As the craft evolved, summer Alpine pasture season. The Bénichon Festival elaborately carved spoons were passed down from in Fribourg Region will take place in Châtel-St-Denis in generation to generation, like family silver. A high- 2020. This is when everyone comes home, when town quality souvenir! And even more so when it is asso- and country, locals and visitors come together. Living ciated with memories of delicious food in a Fribourg traditions may be reinterpreted, but the eight-course Alpine hut! Bénichon meal remains the same!

ALPINE GAMES CHORAL SINGING

Against a fantastic mountain back- Abbé Joseph Bovet (1879 - 1951) left the canton of Fribourg an extensive drop and directly by the Schwar- musical heritage. He subsequently became the music director of St. zsee: the Wrestling and Alpine Nicholas Cathedral and wrote around 2,000 religious and secular works. Games Festival is steeped in folk- Whether they are sung in Fribourg patois, in French or German, his choral lore and a major event for locals music and songs still bring people together today. and fans.

ALPINE CHEESE OF FRIBOURG REGION The production of cheese in Fribourg Region dates In May 2013, the certificate was changed to AOP (Ap- back to 1115. “Les caves d’affinage de la Tzintre” pellation d’origine protégée) throughout Europe. In aging cellars in Charmey have existed since the 16th 2017, 170 tonnes of Le Gruyère d’Alpage AOP and century. Today 10,000 cheese wheels age until their 79 tonnes of Vacherin Fribourgeois d’Alpage AOP taste is perfect. The 18th century was the heyday of the were produced in the canton of Fribourg. René Kolly, Gruyère cheese industry. The Gruyère d’alpage and former cheese maker and now the President of the Vacherin fribourgeois d‘alpage produced by the Fri- Cooperative of Alpine Cheese Producers, personally bourg Cooperative of Alpine Cheese Producers were guides interested visitors through the Tzintre cheese awarded the national quality certificate AOC (Appella- cellar in Charmey. tion d’origine contrôlée) in 2001 and 2005 respectively.

– 5 – TRADITIONS

SOLENNITÄT MURTEN MURTEN RUN

The festival that used to commemorate the victory A messenger brought the good news of the victory against the Burgundian Duke Charles the Bold in in the Battle of Murten (1476) and a Linden branch the Battle of Murten in 1476 is now celebrated as a to Fribourg. The first national commemorative mara- school festival. Uniformed cadets and girls dressed thon took place in 1933, with 14 participants. The in white with flowers parade through the Old Town. 17-kilometre Murten run is now the oldest fun run in The Solennität is an annual town festival with a church Fribourg Region. Around 13,000 runners are expected celebration, dancing, games and arbalest shooting. for the 87th event. Sunday October 4th 2020 Murten, Monday June 22nd 2020

VULLY TART PRAZ GRAPE HARVEST FESTIVAL

Community-building tradition: Af- Even if Vully is regarded as the smallest of the Swiss wine-growing re- ter a night in front of the community gions, winegrowers know how to celebrate their festival in style. The lovely oven, the associations in Vully sell wine-growing village of Praz is decorated with flowers and has many the delicious, freshly-baked Vully market stalls and open wine cellars. There are children’s processions, tarts locally. marching carnival bands and fanfares, while wine and life are celebrated. Friday, Saturday and Sunday, September 18th, 19th and 20th 2020

CARNIVAL OR MARDI GRAS – WILD AND FUN The Bolz Carnival has been celebrated in Fribourg’s Society” was established in 1950 to ensure that the lower town for 51 years. The tradition is upheld with Carnival adheres to the obligatory traditions. There are colourful processions, costumes, marching carnival processions, marching carnival bands, fancy dress bands and razzmatazz in the bars and restaurants in balls and ditties. Since 1965, it has been customary the Old Town. The Carnival culminates in the spectac- to put on trial the “Füdlibürger” (petty bourgeois), who ular burning of the giant Rababou. Saturday, February represents the winter, accusing him of everything that 22nd to Tuesday, February 25th 2020. The traditional has gone wrong over the past twelve months and then Romont Carnival which takes place during the same burn him. Friday, March 7th to Monday, March 9th weekend, is a unique experience. The crazy days and 2020 nights are also celebrated in Murten. The “Mardi Gras

– 6 – TRADITIONS

ST. NICHOLAS FRIBOURG CATHOLIC FESTIVALS

Students at the St. Michel College in Fribourg have Female mourners dressed in black (in French “pleu- been organising the St. Nicholas Festival since 1906. reuses”) and cross-bearers march through the town After a festive market, at 5.00 pm it’s time for the of Romont, singing and praying in remembrance of procession of St. Nicholas on his donkey, accompanied Christ’s suffering and crucifixion. Good Friday, April by his helpers and torch bearers. In a critical speech 10th 2020. In Fribourg, on Corpus Christi, a pro- interspersed with irony from the cathedral balcony, he cession takes place after mass. It goes to lavishly looks back on the past year, before the festival ends adorned station altars where the congregation prays with a solemn mass. Saturday, December 5th 2020. and sings. Thursday, June 11th 2020 www.st-nicolas.ch

CHARACTER INDULGE IN GLASS ART

The influence of professional artist The Vitromusée, the Swiss Museum of Stained Glass and Glass Art in Hubert Audriaz on the cultural life of Romont Castle, pulls out all the stops of modern communication: new at- Fribourg is like no other, particularly tractions such as Vitromatinées or Vitrobrunches, workshops for adults in the lower town, where the Bolz and children as well as special exhibitions and exciting events draw visi- language is still spoken occasion- tors. The free tour of the museum on the first Sunday of each month lasts ally. www.fribourgtourisme.ch a good hour.

FISH BROTHERHOOD CONTACT In Estavayer-le-Lac, fishermen, journeymen, pastors and honourable We would be pleased to assist you brothers maintain their solidarity and brotherly love in the Honourable Fish with research trips and your search Brotherhood Association, according to specific codes. This tradition origi- for interesting media topics. nates from 1658. The Fish Brotherhood was revived in 1956 following the discovery of the flag. It depicts Saint Nicholas, patron saint of fishermen, © FRIBOURG REGION and Laurentius, patron saint of the parish, side by side. The solemn cer- +41 (0)26 407 70 20 emony to admit new brothers takes place on the Sunday on which the [email protected] ships and fishing tackle are blessed on the place du port of Estavayer www.fribourgregion.ch after mass. Sunday, August 9th 2020 www.flickr.com/fribourgregion #fribourgregion

– 7 – CULINARY DELIGHTS BENICHON, THE NON PLUS ULTRA MENU It is not easy to avoid the tempting culinary speciali- 1852: Cuchaule AOP (saffron brioche), Bénichon ties in this area. They are intertwined with the rural tra- mustard; butter bouillon, boiled beef; lamb ragout with ditions that still exist today. The citizens of Fribourg raisins, mashed potatoes, poire à Botzi AOP; smoked attach great importance to serving their regional farmer’s ham, saucisson, cabbage, beans; leg of products in a manner that enhances their aesthetic lamb, mashed potatoes, beetroot salad; cream in a appeal. The undisputed crowning glory is the large wooden vessel and meringues, fruit, small cakes, puff Bénichon meal, which gives thanks for the harvest pastry tarts, biscuits with sugar crystals, pretzels and and celebrates the reunion with the family after the anise biscuits. The wholesome Bénichon family meal Alpine season. Apart from small variations, the tra- can be tried in numerous restaurants from August on- ditional sequence of dishes has not changed since wards. www.fribourgregion.ch

SPECIALITIES TO DIE FOR

Fondue “moitié-moitié”: The winning recipe for four people is as follows: Chocolate: There are two iconic Rub the fondue pot with a clove of garlic. Mix 400 g of grated Gruyère addresses for gourmets. The AOP and 400 g of grated Vacherin Fribourgeois AOP (insiders swear by Maison Cailler, the Swiss Choco- a mixture of mature cheese and mild cheese), one teaspoon cornflour late Factory in Broc, the most and 3 dl white wine. Slowly bring to the boil whilst stirring continuously. frequented tourist attraction in Continue stirring gently until the cheese is silky smooth. Season to taste Western Switzerland. And in Fri- with a touch of pepper and serve immediately with chunks of bread and bourg, it is tempting to stop at potatoes. Bon appétit! Chocolat Villars for a sweet treat.

– 8 – CULINARY DELIGHTS

THE KING OF FONDUE BÉNICHON MENU

Raoul Colliard is internationally renowned as an Once a year the entire canton of Fribourg celebrates authority on fondue. The place of pilgrimage for Bénichon, the harvest thanksgiving festival that also cheese lovers is his easily accessible alpine tavern celebrates the homecoming after the Alpine season. La Saletta, above Les Paccots, at 1,499 m above In 2020, the Bénichon Festival in Fribourg Region will sea level. He has amassed innumerable tales since take place in Châtel-St-Denis. This is when everyone spending the busy Alpine summers up here as a child. comes home, when town and country, locals and visi- Raoul likes to present them to his guests together tors come together. Living traditions reinterpreted, the with the regional specialities. Fortunately only delight eight-course Bénichon menu remains unchanged! stays, they have zero calories!

FONDUE TRAIN A DAY ON THE ALPINE PASTURES

Travel through La Gruyère in the Gruyère AOP and Vacherin Fribourgeois AOP never taste better than historic fondue train, with a de- in their place of origin. A day on the Alpine pastures – and the taste of licious cheese fondue „moitié- cheese will conjure up the most pleasant lifelong memories. In an Alpine moitié” in front of you and for des- hut above Charmey, visitors can participate in the working day of an sert the legendary meringues with Alpine farming family, from milking the cows and making cheese in the double cream. www.tpf.ch traditional manner, to tasting.

FRESH FISH The inhabitants of the canton of Fribourg love fish and Port or Le Rive Sud in Estavayer-le-Lac, the Bel-Air there is a good reason why. Lake Murten and Lake in Praz, the Du Port in Môtier, as well as the Eintracht Neuchâtel are home to 20 species of fish, including restaurant in Murten and gourmet restaurants in Fri- the catfish and delicious other fish such as European bourg, offer excellent fish dishes. Children in particu- perch, zander, whitefish and brown trout. Some pro- lar believe that the fish they catch themselves taste fessional fishermen take guests on the boat with best. Petri Heil provides the fish from her trout farm them, for example Claude and Cyrille Delley on Lake in the Gotteron Gorge, and the Buvette right next door Neuchâtel and Pierre Schaer on Lake Murten. Lake takes charge of preparing it. Enjoy! fishare very popular. For example, the restaurants Du

– 9 – CULINARY DELIGHTS

VEGETABLE GARDEN EVENTS

Lake Murten is the gateway to paradise. Healthy fresh Visitors will realise on September 18th, 19th and 20th food grows in the adjacent Grosse Moos, from rhu- 2020 that Vully, the smallest wine-growing region in barb and asparagus to 40 types of vegetables, beau- Switzerland, knows how to celebrate its Grape Har- tiful pumpkins and more. From mid-April to mid-June, vest Festival in style. The festival takes place in the old a producer demonstrates asparagus cultivation to vis- centre of the village of Praz, which is served by shuttle itors, who can dig up a few delicious tips themselves. buses, scheduled boats from Murten and the loveliest Exploring the vegetable trail by bicycle is very easy, hiking and cycle paths. Fans of craft beers can visit for example, from Kerzers (25 km or 45 km route). the Handcraft Beer Festival: its foamy head will settle in the town of Fribourg on August 28th and 29th 2020.

BREWER FIVE-COURSE FRIBOURG

There are several small breweries The new food tour is called Taste My Fribourg. It kicks off with a mini in Fribourg Region that specialise cuchaule in the sophisticated Le Point Commun. Not far away, partici- in craft brewing. They open their pants, enjoy a craft beer and cheese in the trendy Les Trentenaires. Then doors for tastings, guided tours it’s off to the Café du Belvédère, where a tasty syrup is accompanied by and brewing courses. the best view of the town. A restaurant in the old town serves a set meal, Fribourg wine, dessert and coffee. www.fribourgtourisme.ch

ENJOY VULLY WINES LOCALLY With 152 hectares of vineyards, Vully on Lake Mur- Vully: at least one wine cellar is open every Sunday ten is the smallest of the large Swiss wine-growing from April to October, and all of them over the Whitsun regions. Chasselas (41%) and Pinot noir (28%), in weekend. Gourmets can set off on a “Balade gour- addition to Gamaret, Merlot, Pinot gris and Chardon- mande” on July 19th and on the “Route gourmande nay as well as Freiburger (Freisamer) and Traminer du Vully” on June 27th. Visitors can enjoy walking on (Gewürztraminer) are grown. The wineries have the vineyard path between Sugiez and Môtier all year enacted the “Vully Charter” to enhance the status of round. www.levully.ch these two specialities. The wines are best enjoyed in

– 10 – CULINARY DELIGHTS

CHOCOLATE MAKER BAKING WORKSHOP

She has the ultimate deam job. Géraldine Maras is a The legendary Bénichon meal starts with cuchaule prize-winning chocolate maker in the Maison Cailler, AOP (saffron brioche) and Bénichon mustard. Gérald the Swiss Chocolate Factory in Broc. And this tem- Saudan, from the eponymous bakery, informs partici- ple of sweet delights offers a workshop in which visi- pants in an hour-long workshop about the styles and tors produce wonderful treats themselves. Géraldine recipes for the sweet and tangy Bénichon mustard gives her tips for joyous creations made from choco- and the aromatic buttery saffron brioche. A wonderful late and secret ingredients to chocolate lovers from all happy hour with friends and an opportunity to become over the world to take home with them. better acquainted with the traditional Fribourg cuisine.

THE DESSERT MUSTARD COMPETITION

Meringues with Gruyère dou- Bénichon mustard may be best described as a sweet and tangy spicy ble cream: One is light, sugary preserve. The recipe requires concentrated pear juice (vin cuit), mustard and fragile, the other is soft and flour, sugar and spices such as anise, cinnamon and cloves, as well as creamy and melts in your mouth. a pinch... But psst, that is a secret. A major competition takes place in Estavayer-le-Lac on Saturday August 29th 2020, to award the title of “best Bénichon mustard in the canton of Fribourg“.

LEGENDARY CAKES FROM LAKE MURTEN Mixing up Nidelkuchen and Vully Tart is not a good be an ideal accompaniment to wine. They serve the idea. Nidel means cream. The Aebersold bakery has freshly baked tarts with an aperitif, as a savoury snack, been producing the Murtner Nidelkuchen for three with bacon or almonds or in the original version... and generations. They know exactly how to place five with caramelised sugar in the handmade “love wells”. different layers of cream on the yeast dough to ensure Visitors can buy Vully Tart at the Guillaume bakery in that this unique creamy treat that tastes of caramel is Sugiez and other places. www.nidelkuchen.ch and a success. The Vully Tart has a larger lobby, namely www.boulangerie-guillaume.ch the wine growers in Vully. They consider the tarts to

– 11 – CULINARY DELIGHTS

GOURMET RESTAURANTS BÉNICHON RESTAURANTS

People who use the Gault&Millau Guide as a yardstick Visitors are likely to be able to order the Bénichon meal eat and drink in Des Trois Tours (18 points) run by in the restaurant between August and November. The Alain Bächler in Fribourg-Bourguillon. Culinary de- meal, which was originally served in a family setting, is lights are also guaranteed in La Pinte des Mossettes available in the Café du Gothard in Fribourg or in the in Cerniat run by Romain Paillereau, and in the new Le Hôtel de Ville in Bulle, for example. Farming families Pérolles run by Pierre-André Ayer (both 17 points). Le occasionally convert their farms into temporary Petit Pérolles is the tip for lunch. 16 points have been taverns. A good address is the Ferme des Planchettes awarded to F. Kondratowicz (Hôtel de Ville) and the run by Marie-Jeanne Brönnimann in Onnens near new La Cène for the quality of their food. Fribourg. A reservation is essential!

RISING STAR DOUBLE CREAM FESTIVAL

Romain Paillereau work won- Double cream from La Gruyère is in a very sweet class of its own… and ders with herbs in La Pinte des worth its own festival in the small town of Gruyères. The tasting trail takes Mossettes in Cerniat. He is the you from Alpine macaroni through mountain soup to cake made from “vin Gault&Millau rising star in Western cuit”, caramel, chocolates and meringues with fruit and double cream. To Switzerland. top it off, there are calorie-free old crafts, folklore and a world record bid. June 13th -14th 2020

FONDUE ANYTIME AND ANYWHERE CONTACT Fondue is a sizzling love affair and can be enjoyed anytime and anywhere, We would be pleased to assist you for example in the beach bar “La Dérive”, by the cable ski in Estavayer- with research trips and your search le-Lac. In Murten, the ultimate address is called “Freiburger Falle”. The for interesting media topics. sunset fondue on the summit of the Moléson or in the Alpine tavern “Le Vuipay” in Les Paccots is the ultimate culinary pleasure. In Cerniat, the © FRIBOURG REGION Gros Chaumiaux Alpine cheese-dairy attracts visitors, and in Schwarzsee +41 (0)26 407 70 20 Raemy’s goat farm offers a fondue made from goat’s cheese. Fondue is [email protected] served during a horse-drawn carriage ride or a round trip on Lake Murten. www.fribourgregion.ch In Fribourg, the Café de l’Ange serves a fondue pot divided into three sec- www.flickr.com/fribourgregion tions. The Café du Gothard, steeped in tradition, is also a sure bet. #fribourgregion

– 12 – CULTURE AND HISTORY RICH HERITAGE, ATTRACTIVELY STAGED Fribourg Region has a rich cultural heritage and as entire streets – over 200 in total – of 15th century the inhabitants take care of it with love and pride. Gothic façades. Then there are the 14 bridges and The narrow lanes of the medieval towns of Fribourg, 11 historic fountains, which alone are worth a visit. La Gruyères, Romont, Murten and Estavayer-le-Lac are Gruyère is also a cultural region: its everyday farming picturesque, yet full of life. Fortifications, churches and festival culture are traditions that are still prac- and monasteries – many of them on the Way of St. tised today in some cases. They are presented in the James – castles and manor houses attract visitors with Musée Gruérien in Bulle. All of this and a profound fascinating cultural activities. The capital, Fribourg, openness give rise to contemporary and unusual enchants visitors with its magnificent Gothic architec- customs, as well as a great deal of culture. ture, first and foremost St. Nicholas Cathedral, as well www.fribourgregion.ch

FRIBOURG, AN EASILY ACCESSIBLE MEDIEVAL TOWN

Town fortifications: The medieval fortifications are accessible during the St. Nicholas Cathedral: The town’s day from spring until autumn. Five gates, six towers, seven sections of landmark, whose construction be- walls, a large rampart: the most significant heritage of medieval military gan in 1283, depicts a bas relief architecture in Switzerland is open to visitors. Exploring the impressive of the Last Judgement on the fortifications with a guide and historian is a good way to learn about the main door, has magnificent glass history of the town, built in the meander of the Sarine river, and discover windows, wonderful old organs and the best vantage points. Book at www.fribourgtourisme.ch a 74-metre high observation tower.

– 13 – CULTURE AND HISTORY

FUNICULAR VISIT TO THE CASTLE

The Fribourg “funi” is part of the public transport Ideal models for painters of fairytale castles: system and is listed in the inventory of national cultural surrounded by the impressive Fribourg Pre-Alps, assets. It started running between the town centre and Gruyères Castle, the former seat of the Count of the lower town in 1899 and is the only remaining water Gruyère, overlooks the mediaeval town from the top ballast-powered funicular railway in Switzerland. The of the hill. A tour takes visitors through eight centuries ballast drive is economical and never runs out, even if of history and culture. The beautiful Chenaux Castle it is not completely odourless: municipal waste water! in Estavayer-le-Lac, which has overlooked Lake www.tpf.ch Neuchâtel since the 15th century, is also well worth seeing.

GLASS ART BRIDGES AND FOUNTAINS

Romont Castle houses the With over 200 Gothic façades, the Old Town of Fribourg is one of the Swiss Museum of Stained Glass largest townscapes of mediaeval Europe. Twelve historic fountains with and Glass Art. A centuries-old allegorical and biblical figures supported by columns, such as the Jo fascination! www.vitromusee.ch Siffert Fountain by Jean Tinguely, are worth a visit. And last but not least, the appearance of the town is characterised by 14 unique bridges.

AWARD-WINNING SACRED LANDSCAPE The Sarine basin, with its numerous monasteries, templation. Peace and quiet can also be found with churches and chapels, was awarded the title ‘Land- the hospitable Cistercian nuns in the Fille-Dieu Abbey scape of the Year 2018’ by the Swiss Foundation for in Romont or the guesthouse of the Magere Au Ab- Landscape Protection. Many of the sacred buildings bey in Fribourg’s Old Town. Competent guides are on in the region, which has been ‘strongly influenced by hand to share their extensive knowledge of the nu- religion’, are open to visitors. The Hauterive Abbey, a merous abbeys, public churches and chapels, which Cistercian monastery built around 1138, enjoys a pic- have an eventful history and the most exquisite eccle- turesque location in a loop of the river Sarine outside siastical art. An overview of the sacred heritage can Fribourg. Here you can attend the solemn in Praise of be found at www.esprit-des-lieux.ch God sung service or spend a few days in quiet con-

– 14 – CULTURE AND HISTORY

ART AND LOVE MUSÉE GRUÉRIEN

The “Espace Jean Tinguely – Niki de Saint Phalle” is The everyday life of herdsmen in La Gruyère in a by- dedicated to Fribourg’s most famous partners in art gone age is now part of the cultural heritage, while and married couple. It is a fascinating exhibition in the their traditional festive customs are kept alive. A won- former tram depot in the town of Fribourg. Tinguely’s derful interactive exhibition transports visitors to the meta-mechanical devices appear to be timeless and crafts in the Middle Ages, relates the triumph of Gru- ready to go and the “Nanas”, voluptuous female fig- yère cheese in Paris, allows them to enter an Alpine ures by Niki de Saint Phalle, are also clearly non-con- hut and take part in a Bénichon festival. The museum formist. Creativity, elaborately implemented! in Bulle is well worth a visit. www.musee-gruerien.ch www.mahf.ch

FROG MUSEUM HR GIGER MUSEUM AND BAR

Estavayer-le-Lac has the most The Château St-Germain in the mediaeval town of Gruyères houses a quirky museum in the region: 108 futuristic treasure, the Museum of the Swiss artist HR Giger. In 1980, he stuffed frogs in satirical scenes won an Oscar for the best visual effects in the film “Alien”. His sculptures, from everyday life in the 19th century. pictures and stage designs still fascinate visitors today. The HR Giger Bar It’s always popular with children! opposite also gives visitors an impression of his work, as well as goose www.museedesgrenouilles.ch bumps. www.hrgigermuseum.com

MUSEUM OF ART AND HISTORY

The Museum (MAHF) is housed in the elegant Renais- sculptures in the basement of the former slaughter- sance Palais hôtel Ratzé, a 19th century arsenal and house are simply wonderful. Against the backdrop of slaughterhouse. Equipped with an audio guide, visi- archaic tufa blocks and the 13th century town wall, the tors learn about the history of the town and its art from original monumental sculptural group of the twelve the Middle Ages to the present day. The collection of apostles from Fribourg Cathedral quite rightly cap- sculptures is deemed to be one of the most important tures the attention of visitors. The series of 16th century in Switzerland. Stained glass painting and goldsmith- town fountains – invariably with a religious sign – is ing are additional focal points, the presentation of the also magnificent. www.mahf.ch history of the guilds and trades is interesting, as is the art of warfare. The mediaeval and baroque stone

– 15 – CULTURE AND HISTORY

NEOLITHIC VILLAGE BATTLE OF MURTEN

Our ancestors settled in Gletterens, on the southern On June 22nd 1476, the Swiss Confederates annihilat- shore of Lake Neuchâtel, 5,000 years ago. The recon- ed the Burgundian army, led by the Burgundian Duke structed lakeside village is a typical Neolithic settle- Charles the Bold, with a surprise attack. Murten com- ment. Guides provide information about the everyday memorates this victorious battle every year, for exam- life of the lake dwellers in and around the mud houses ple during the “Solennität”, the Historic Murten Shoot thatched with rushes. There are workshops, for ex- and the Murten race. The Murten Museum depicts the ample making a fire, producing weapons, tools and battle in a multimedia show, while information boards jewellery, events and overnight stays May to October. on the accessible town walls provide comments about www.village-lacustre.ch. the original sites.

REOPENED AVENTICUM / OPPIDUM VULLY

It will become clear in mid-May While in the Lake Murten region, history buffs can visit Avenches (VD) 2020: the renovated Payerne Pri- and Aventicum, the capital of Roman Helvetia. The forum’s thermal baths, ory (11th century) speaks for itself the theatre, the amphitheatre (115 x 87 m) and the Roman Museum, and 20 stations provide visitors in particular, are worth a visit. The faithful reconstruction of the Celtic with an interactive experience. oppidum on Mont Vully, formerly part of a 600 m long fortification, is also Marvellous! impressive.

ON THE TRAIL OF FRIBOURG’S CULTURAL HERITAGE Fribourg’s Old Town does not lack of charm. Visitors encounter people in their daily lives at that time. The stroll along picturesque alleys past Gothic facades town fortifications, which are freely accessible during and usually end up on a beautiful square. They can the day, offer new vistas and perspectives. An expe- admire the historic buildings and fountains there… rience for young and old! “Fribourg at dusk” is the but what was life really like here in the Middle Ages? name of a guided tour through the Old Town. A knight A new themed walk enables individual visitors to im- and a female gossipmonger tell centuries-old stories merse themselves in the Middle Ages, where they by lantern light.

– 16 – CULTURE AND HISTORY

ARTICHOKE URBAN ART FILM FESTIVAL

The medieval Estavayer-le-Lac has also recently The Fribourg International Film Festival is a highlight shown itself to be very hip – along the new ArtiChoke in the cultural calendar. The feature-length films and Urban Art Route, in any event. Fifteen contemporary short films shown in the international competitions urban artworks create a trail that blends into the cultural encourage dialogue between cultures. Cinematic heritage of the small town. A map is downloadable for boundaries are moreover explored far away from individual exploration (approx. 1 hour). Visitors can commercial exploitation and a wide range of events obtain a brochure from the tourist office or book a tour. are organised. The festival is an important date for www.artichokefestival.ch the film industry and cinema lovers.March 20th - 28th 2020. www.fiff.ch

HERITAGE TIME TRAVEL TO 1606

The public swimming pool Les The Werkhof in the lower town has risen like a phoenix from the ashes. Bains de la Motta was built in the Fribourg as it appeared in 1606 is displayed on 52 m2 and is the largest classical style by architect Beda model in Switzerland. Multimedia shows on life-size screens depict Hefti in 1923. Backstroke swim- encounters with local inhabitants at that time, for example with the town mers enjoy the coolest view of the chronicler Martin Martini, a peasant, natural healer, and more. Old Town.

A REGION OF SINGING CONTACT Choral music is a very lively tradition in Fribourg. Around 7,200 singers are We would be pleased to assist you organised into 234 religious and secular groups. The choral associations with research trips and your search also developed outside the religious milieu, occasionally also as a for interesting media topics. backlash against it. Abbé Joseph Bovet (1879-1951) succeeded in uniting all the voices. His melodies and texts are engraved on the hearts and © FRIBOURG REGION memories of the citizens of Fribourg. A monument is dedicated to him in +41 (0)26 407 70 20 the Schützenmatte park in Fribourg. The Cantorama or “House of Fribourg [email protected] Choral Music” in Jaun looks after this rich historic and cultural heritage, www.fribourgregion.ch with concerts and collections. www.cantorama.ch www.flickr.com/fribourgregion #fribourgregion

– 17 – NATURE LOVERS UNLIMITED NATURE Nature in the canton of Fribourg captivates visitors an appearance that is characterised by agricultural with its extraordinary diversity. The landscapes of the and forestry use. Fribourg’s Pre-Alps extend from the Lake Murten region and along the southern shore of Sarine river and Lake Gruyère across the legendary Lake Neuchâtel are delightful: idyllic shorelines with Alps that have been cultivated for centuries, to the a wealth of biodiversity, sandy beaches, steep vine- 2,389 m high rugged peaks or vanils, as the crags are yards and fantastic views of the snow-covered peaks called in Fribourg patois. Nature reserves, Pre-Alpine of the Swiss Alps promise an enjoyable and leisurely parks and unspoilt landscapes formed by glaciers holiday. The centre of the region, with the capital Fri- invite visitors to take an environmentally friendly ap- bourg and the town of Romont, offers expansive land- proach and make educational discoveries. scapes, fascinating river landscapes, rolling hills and www.fribourgregion.ch

ACROSS LAKE MURTEN WITH THE FIRST LADY

Corinne Stauffer is the first female captain of official shipping in the Three Water hiking trail: On Lake Pé- Lakes Region, who is authorised to command the largest cruise ves- rolles, a short walk from the cen- sels. Anyone in Murten who comes to “Ville d’Yverdon” at 9.50 a.m. has tre of the town of Fribourg, there a good chance of seeing how the captain docks in Winzerdorf Môtier, is a nature reserve carved out steers through the Broye Canal, past the BirdLife Nature Centre in La from sandstone by the Sarine Sauge, which welcomes birdwatchers, and then sets course for Neuchâ- river. Information boards explain tel. Whether you take a scheduled trip, a round trip on Lake Murten, a trip the many bird species and varied on the Neuchâtel steamer or a themed trip: welcome on Board! flora.

– 18 – NATURE LOVERS

SPECTACULAR TREES ENJOY SWIMMING

They are exceptional specimens, energising gifts of The secret of happy holidays is contented children. nature of inestimable value… and ambassadors of There are nice sandy beaches on the southern shore the 20 to 30 million trees in the forests of Fribourg of Lake Neuchâtel, in Portalban for example. The mu- Region. The Cantonal Office for Forests and Nature nicipality has created a fantastic sandy beach on the has produced a leaflet on 22 spectacular trees… and lake and made it accessible via a wooden walkway. recommends an on-site visit. From the protector to the The Nouvelle Plage in Estavayer-le-Lac is a sandy dancer, the survivor and the hydra, their very names beach with child-oriented activities at the Alphasurf reveal something of their history… and of ours. water sports centre. A cool bathing resort on Lake Murten is situated just outside Murten.

YOG’ALTITUDE BIRD PARADISE

The first sun salutation is directed Visitors who are keen to observe wildlife in its natural surroundings will be at the countryside around Les in their element on Lake Neuchâtel. The Grande Cariçaie with its wealth Paccots and the Lake Joncs. The of birds can be explored via flat trails, observation platforms and huts, on new timeout “Pure Experience” is foot, by bicycle and in some places, even in a wheelchair. The BirdLife a gift to oneself. Nature Centre in La Sauge, near Cudrefin, offers themed tours. www.yog-altitude.com www.birdlife.ch/lasauge

GOURMET CYCLE TOUR AROUND LAKE MURTEN In the nature of Lake Murten Region, culture and cui- inclusive tour for cyclists, who would literally like to sine vie for the attention of connoisseurs. The sign- relish the regional specialities. Vouchers for a lunch or posted Cycle Route No. 480 Tour of Lake Murten dinner with perch fillets and salad, for a glass of Vully invites cyclists to ride around the lake, combining wine or a soft drink, a piece of Nidelkuchen or Vully everything beautifully. Along a 28-kilometre trail only a tart with a cup of coffee and a surprise gift are availa- difference in altitude of 360 metres has to be covered, ble in the tourist offices in Murten and Sugiez or online which thanks to the breathtaking views from Mont for 45 francs per person. The vouchers are accepted Vully (653 m above sea level), is worth every effort. in many restaurants and bakeries (on the same day). ‘Gourmet tour around Lake Murten’ is the name of the www.regionmurtensee.ch

– 19 – NATURE LOVERS

JAUN WATERFALL HIKING LEADER

The mystical Jaun waterfall is deemed to be a power- Hiking leader Cyrille Cantin has turned his vocation ful place and was shrouded in mystery for a long time. into his profession and imparts his knowledge to visi- The source of the water has since been discovered 15 tors. The whole team of Attitude Oxygen offer visitors kilometres away. It seeps away at the source and fil- unique experiences in the Fribourg countryside. Flora, ters through the karst for ten days before it gushes out fauna, history, legends and, if desired, adventures as of the rock here with full force. The spray formed by well, are experienced in new ways, perhaps discreetly the deluge of water that rushes down at 6,000 litres a or at night or…. Hiking trails definitely go further with second contains a lot of energy from the earth’s core. Cyrille and his team. www.aoxy.ch www.esprit-des-lieux.ch

WITCH’S PATH CANOEING

The Tourist Office provides chil- The Sarine river and the Schiffenen Lake are particularly attractive waters dren with the perfect kit for the for paddlers. And this is how it works: Upon arrival in Freiburg, take a fantastic witch’s path around short stroll through the charming old town and off you go to one of the Schwarzsee. An entertaining and most beautiful paddle lakes in Switzerland. Here, even beginners have an fun experience full of surprises is unforgettable experience on the water. This is how you spend a relaxing guaranteed! day. www.kanuladen.ch

LES PACCOTS’ RARE NATURAL LANDSCAPES The region around Les Paccots, with its wetlands, From Les Paccots it is also possible to reach the Nire- mixed forests and plateau, offers nature lovers a wide mont Massif (max. 1,500 metres above sea level) with variety of natural treasures. The mountain Lake Joncs its ancient, protected peat bogs. Visitors who accom- (1,235 metres above sea level), for example, is only pany gamekeeper José Genoud learn to observe ani- unimpressive at first sight. It dates back to the Ice Age, mals at a respectful distance and thus see more. Since so it is around 5,000 years old and very deep. This Orkan Lothar began transforming the forest here, the amphibian spawning area of national importance pro- expert has been closely observing the development vides a habitat for rare fauna, such as the endangered in these more recent glades. Les Paccots maintains common toad and the large redeye, and plants such scenic footpaths, to enable a soft approach to this bio- as the spatterdock, sundew and purple marshlock. diversity.

– 20 – NATURE LOVERS

MONT VULLY YOGA ON THE LAKE

Mont Vully is only 653 m high, but has magnificent Not only the sun salutation on the stand-up paddle views. The view from its ridge extends across vine- board converted into a swimming yoga mat will be un- yards and the lake to the snow-covered peaks of the forgettable. Yoga teacher Iris Krattinger invites visitors Bernese Alps. The Vully sandstone caves are situated to take part in yoga on Lake Murten. It is astonishing on the southern slope above Môtier. During World how the gentle bobbing intensifies the sitting, kneel- War l, the Swiss army was defeated in the sandstone ing and standing exercises. Small muscles, breathing caves, which are now a fascinating area to explore. and mindfulness come into play and participants feel Remember to bring a torch! www.levully.ch completely at one with nature on “their island”.

BOTANY PANORAMIC MONT MOLÉSON

The Botanical Gardens of the Uni- No summit with such fantastic views (2,002 m above sea level) is easier versity of Fribourg present around to reach. From the panoramic terrace, visitors can enjoy an unobstructed 5,000 plant species in 20 depart- view over the Alps to Mont Blanc, across the Three-Lakes Region to Lake ments. Magnificent flora in the Geneva and the Jura. For a romantic evening, a table can be reserved centre of town! for the sunset fondue (from May 21st 2020 to the beginning of November, www.fribourgtourisme.ch Fridays and Saturdays). www.moleson.ch

ACTIVELY EXPLORE NATURE PARKS The Gruyère Pays d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park into the everyday life of the Alpine shepherds and covers 503 km2 in the typical Pre-Alpine area between villagers. Covering 402 km2, the Gantrisch regional Bulle, Montreux and Gstaad. Natural landscapes, like nature park includes the Schwarzsee tourist region. human civilisation, create a heritage which the cantons There are occasionally guided tours, excursions and of Fribourg and Vaud jointly wish to preserve. Lovely workshops on nature, culture and traditional crafts, hiking trails, such as the cheese trails on old transport such as shingle making and baking bread. The parks routes and the new signposted long-distance trail, the are an invitation to gain a genuine insight into these Grand Tour des Vanils, go through valleys and across culturally rich regions and their charm of everyday life. hills and mountains. Hikers obtain authentic insights www.pnr-gp.ch, www.gantrisch.ch

– 21 – NATURE LOVERS

BAREFOOT TRAILS THE SENSE

In the garden of the old mill in Villarimboud, “Le Pied “The Sense is the most natural river in the Northern Total” invites visitors to take part in a voyage of dis- Alps”. This homage by the World Wide Fund For Na- covery. “Going barefoot heightens the senses. After a ture, WWF pays tribute to the river, with its intact pas- ramble in the countryside accompanied by a wealth of tureland. The natural riparian zones with gravel and anecdotes, your feet feel totally liberated... and your sand banks are valuable habitats for the flora and head as well!” says Frédéric Perritaz, the architect of fauna of this region and are consequently in need of the barefoot trails. Visitors who wish to spend the night protection. Gantrisch Nature Park organises voluntary in a tree bivouac are also in the right place here. activities to combat invasive plants, invader plant spe- www.bivouacdanslesarbres.ch cies for example.

NOVILÉ 1,001 BUTTERFLIES

Novilé is the name of the new app A jungle trek through a tropical forest, a mangrove swamp and orchid for treasure hunting around Lake pools. 1,001 butterflies enchant visitors with their ballet, many exotic Gruyere. Players experience the varieties can be spotted and the adventure concludes with the nocturnal region and its treasures on seven inhabitants of the jungle. Visitors can join expert Chantal Derungs for courses and vie for the kudos and insider knowledge and help with the butterfly breeding programme. prize. www.novile.ch www.papiliorama.ch

CRUISES CONTACT The shipping company “Lacs de Neuchâtel et Morat LNM” offers regular We would be pleased to assist you connections and leisurely round trips on Lake Murten, Lake Biel and Lake with research trips and your search Neuchâtel. The Neuchâtel steamship (vapeur), which runs to a special for interesting media topics. schedule, is particularly popular. A great deal of enjoyment is guaranteed when ships and cycling are combined: vineyards and shorelines are © FRIBOURG REGION connected to the loveliest cycling routes. www.navig.ch +41 (0)26 407 70 20 The Three Lakes shipping company also cruises on the three lakes and [email protected] offers brunch and music cruises. Ships for 28, 60 and 300 persons can be www.fribourgregion.ch chartered. www.dreiseenschifffahrt.ch www.flickr.com/fribourgregion #fribourgregion

– 22 – ACTIVE OUTDOORS NATURE TRAILS The topography enables nature to be kind to active the official network of hiking trails covers almost 1,800 visitors and local people in Fribourg Region. Water kilometres. Themed trails even tempt non-hikers and lovers are attracted to the idyllic Lake Murten and the “Grand Tour des Vanils” guarantees several days Lake Neuchâtel region, with its many beaches and of long-distance hiking. The network of cycling routes accessible shorelines. Culture-loving hikers will find in Fribourg Region comprises three national, three surprising ways to discover the capital Fribourg and regional and four local routes, while the signposted its surroundings. And the views of Fribourg’s Pre- route around Lake Murten is popular with the public. Alps, with their austere natural beauty, delight walk- Panorama Bike Route No. 2 offers the best of Fri- ers and hikers as well as cyclists and even climbers bourg’s Pre-Alps. www.fribourgregion.ch on the Via Ferrata. Hikers think they are in paradise:

GASTLOSEN CLIMBING PARADISE

The Gastlosen offers numerous climbing routes and the finest practice Moléson fixed rope routes: Via area. Easily accessible, but charismatic, it spellbinds climbers. Florence Ferrata high two! There are two Nikles and Sébastien Monney belong to a small group of elite expedition very secure fixed rope routes team members of the Swiss Alpine Club. Florence has been climbing on the Moléson. The 400 metres on the Gastlosen ever since she can remember and has never stopped. across “La Face” or “Le Pilier” Mountain guide Sébastien accompanies climbers who wish to explore guarantee cool Alpine climbing the north face, for example. Both of them play a part in awakening or fun and spectacular views. sustaining the enthusiasm of many people for climbing.

– 23 – ACTIVE OUTDOORS

CHARMEY ADVENTURES THE 3 LAKES ROUTE

Adventure in Charmey, the name says it all. The The hearts of nature lovers leap with joy on the three Vounetse top station goes to the valley of the zip lines, hiking stages between Lake Neuchâtel and Lake Mur- where participants fly at up to 400 metres back to the ten. The animals in the Grande Cariçaie are at their middle station via eleven lines. Adrenaline-fuelled most active in the early morning. Via wooden foot- sightseeing from a different perspective! Visitors who bridges and in La Sauge Nature Conservation Centre are not so keen on this kind of kick can accompany visitors can cautiously approach the shy lakeside in- the group on the hiking trail and try another of the pre- habitants. Sandy beaches invite visitors to swim, Mont cisely controlled tests of courage or skill later in the Vully to the best panoramic view and Murten to a stroll climbing park. through the delightful Old Town.

FESTI’RANDO DOWNHILL ON LA BERRA

Les Paccots’ festival with sensory Bikers who love speed find two fantastic downhill routes on the pano- and exciting themed hikes pays ramic mountain La Berra (1,719 m above sea level). The slightly longer tribute to the marvellous trails 5.4 kilometre blue trail goes from the top station of Télémixte past Le Gîte across the meadows and moun- d’Allières mountain restaurant to the valley. The red, steeper route covers tains… and the pure love of hik- a distance of 3.4 kilometres directly under the cableway. ing. August 29th and 30th 2020

THROUGH THE LAND OF MILK AND CHEESE The Alpine Panorama Trail No. 3 offers 30 stages from Broc – Maison Cailler, the Swiss Chocolate Factory Lake Constance to Lake Geneva. The Fribourg sec- stands along the way and Gruyères Castle also at- tion begins with stage 21 and promises hikers a lot tracts visitors. On the third day, tribute is paid to Molé- of enjoyment and welcoming inns. From Schwarzsee son, the mountain with impressive views of Fribourg’s hikers take the chair lift to the Riggisalp and roam Pre-Alps. Taking the cableways to the Plan-Francey through the spectacular primeval landscape of the middle station avoids the climb to an altitude of 700 Brecca Valley and then across the flat Euschelspass, metres. The hiking trail runs along the north-west flank carved out by glaciers, to Jaun. On the following day, of the Moléson into the Pre-Alpine region of Les Pac- hikers roam through the heart of La Gruyère along the cots. Lake Geneva soon displays its charms: good- River Jogne and through the mystical Jogne gorge to bye Fribourg Region!

– 24 – ACTIVE OUTDOORS

CIRCULAR BIKE PATH MURTEN CYCLE-GOLF

Picturesque landscapes, a rich history and a wealth of Do you feel like cycling with fun and games? Then a cultural treasures, living traditions and culinary high- round of cycling and golf around Lake Murten is for lights such as Maison Cailler, the Swiss Chocolate you. This is how it works: The 18 holes around the lake Factory and La Maison du Gruyère, demonstration are easy to find on the map. If you only wish to cycle cheese-dairy – visitors experience a lot in the three and play golf at nine holes, you can take the ship back days they spend cycling from Murten to Fribourg, to Vully. The bicycles, map, golf clubs and balls are Gruyères and back to Murten. The package trip with available at Rent a Bike in Murten train station. luggage transport makes it very easy. www.regionmurtensee.ch www.eurotrek.ch

SLOW UP HERZSCHLAUFE SENSE TOUR

Happily cycling and inline skating This new Herzroute Circular Trail No. 299 also has every chance of on traffic-free roads! Lake Murten: achieving cult status. The rolling Alpine foothills form natural river valleys, Sunday, April 26th 2020, La Gru- forests and hills and invite visitors to experience them with their own yère: Sunday, July 12th 2020. muscle power and a little help from an e-bike: the circular trail in the Sense www.slowup.ch region is 70 kilometres long. A free guidebook can be ordered at www.herzroute.ch.

ASCENT AND FLIGHT TO HAPPINESS! The Fribourg Pre-Alps are a paradise for paraglider, you can already admire the Fribourg Pre-Alps from ers. Modern, easy-to-carry paragliders enable new a bird’s eye view. Wow! In La Gruyère region, you take adventures between mountain and valley. In several a few steps further towards nature. After an ascent on destinations, experienced and friendly pilots offer foot and a small picnic on a pre-alpine summit, which close-to-nature experiences with tandem flights. In is selected depending on the weather conditions, the Schwarzsee, for example, after a hike to the summit moment has come: take-off. Immerse yourself in in- Cousimbert or to the Gurli hill, the tandem paraglider credible nature. Unique prospects are guaranteed. is prepared for a smooth take-off. A few moments lat-

– 25 – ACTIVE OUTDOORS

GASTLOSEN TOUR BRECCASCHLUND

The iconic five-hour circular tour around theGastlosen The fascinating unspoilt landscape of the Brecca was starts behind Jaun by taking the chair lift to the formed by glaciers. A 2.5 hour circular hike allows you Koenigsberg (1,570 m). It takes1.5 hours to reach the to explore the area. The route starts in Schwarzsee legendary “Chalet du Soldat” mountain hut (1,752 m). (1,047 m) where hikers take the chair lift to the Rig- What a view of the spectacular crags, across Alpine gisalp (1,493 m) and arrive in the middle of the moun- pastures and the expanses of La Gruyère. After the tainous area of the Brecca Nature Reserve. At the foot “Wolfsort” crossing (1,921 m) hikers continue with of impressive limestone deposits in the middle of lush views of the Bernese Alps in front of them. green pastures, the St. Antoni alpine hut invites hikers www.jaun-bergbahnen.ch to a fondue. www.schwarzsee.ch

SAC ALPINE HUT URBAN GOLF THROUGH FRIBOURG

Cabane des Marindes: This sim- Mini-golf, but in an urban format! It is not only families who love this ple SAC alpine hut in the middle enjoyable way of exploring the town. The 18-hole course goes from the of the Vanil Noir Nature Reserve centre via the cable railway (funicular) in the lower town, where it crosses (manned June to September) is old wooden and stone bridges. Moreover: the City Card includes urban ideal for hikers, animal observers golf, the mini-train, many touristic sights and public transport. and plant lovers. www.fribourgtourisme.ch

GRAND TOUR DES VANILS From summer 2018, experienced hikers will findeleven natural beauties, such as the Breccaschlund, new signposted day-long stages under the name the Gastlosen, the Lake Lioson, the Pic Chaussy, “Grand Tour des Vanils”, which go to the Gruyère the Monts Chevreuils and the Vanil de la Monse. Pays-d’Enhaut Regional Nature Park. In Fribourg Moreover, an active Alpine economy, restaurants and patois, “vanil” means “crag” or “craggy mountain mountain huts promise interesting encounters. Even peak” and many of them line the route in the Nature if the stages are meant to take less than six hours Park between the famous Vanil Noir in Val-de-Charmey of hiking a day on average, good preparation is still and the Vanil Carré in Châteaux-d’Oex (VD). The route, recommended. Public transport gives hikers a great which covers around 157 kilometres, connects diverse deal of flexibility. Pre-Alpine landscapes and their most outstanding

– 26 – ACTIVE OUTDOORS

CHEESE-DAIRY TRAIL DOWNHILL RUN

The path between the Alpine cheese-dairy in Molé- For kids, youngs at heart or the whole family: a hike son-sur-Gruyères and La Maison du Gruyère in Pringy is rounded off with very cool and motivating downhill provides information and a memorable experience. scooter runs. Whether in Jaun, from the foot of the The two-hour hike over meadows and through forests Gastlosen-Express to the cableway valley station, affords plenty of opportunities to admire the awesome from the Riggisalp high above Schwarzsee to the val- Moléson. Hikers who fancy a typical meal prepared ley, or from the Vounetse mid-station via two routes over a log fire should continue via Reybes where they down to Charmey, visitors can have the most fun com- will arrive at Les Mongerons, a cosy Alpine restaurant. ing down the mountain on a scooter. The equipment can be hired at the cableways.

TRADITION HIGHLINE OVER MOLÉSON

Accompany Jean-Claude Pesse Europe’s best highliners meet on the Moléson for an entire weekend and and his mules laden with Alpine display their spectacular lifestyle. The experts combine the talents of al- cheese from the mountain pasture pinists and Zen masters. This is the only way they can defy gravity and put in the Vanil Noir Nature Reserve to on a cool, safe show. Watching is free, but visitors who try it require nerves the ripening cellar near Charmey! of steel and an excellent sense of balance. www.moleson.ch

FROM HUT TO HUT ON GOURMET TRAILS Eating out, literally. Visitors who put on their hik- At the foot of the Dent de Lys hikers soon catch sight ing boots in Les Paccots and follow the Panorama of the alpine hut La Saletta (1,499 m above sea level), Gourmet Trails in Fribourg’s Pre-Alps will – after four where the second course awaits them. The Soupe de courses and four hours of hiking – look back on a Chalet is served in a wood-fired cauldron. Only half positive experience at the end of the day, in terms of an hour further on delicious macaronis à la crème are calories too! Near Les Paccots (1,106 m above sea served in the alpine hut Le Vuipay. Satiated, hikers level) the arrow points towards Lake Joncs. A Terroir stroll along Alpine meadow and forest paths down to Plate, namely ham, sausage and cheese, is served the valley, where a refreshing dessert rounds off the as a starter. This is followed by an uphill hike, where gourmet tour. The “Gourmet Trails” must be booked in landscapes unfold like the pages of a picture book. advance. www.les-paccots.ch

– 27 – ACTIVE OUTDOORS

KAYAKING ADVENTURE BY SUP TO THE HERMITAGE

Lake Gruyère invites visitors to explore the waterway. The Sarine river and the Schiffenen Dam are quiet Kayaks, pedalos and stand-up paddles can be hired waters. Experienced stand-up paddlers can set off in Corbières. Participants start from Morlon Beach from Fribourg’s old Bern Bridge. They then glide un- via the Bird Isle, past the Isle of Ogoz to the Rossens der the Poya Bridge out of town. On Lake Schiffenen dam... a Gruyère symphony in dazzling blue and they head for the grottos of the Magdalena Hermit- green. This is also the right address for a spin in a age. This magical place with a religious past has also motorboat or a treasure hunt in a kayak: produced a geological phenomenon. The sandstone- www.aventure-gruyere.ch derived soil originates from 20 million-year-old fossil sand dunes.

WAKEBOARD TRAIL RUNNING PARADISE

Fly over the lake – Luca Butty Mike Aigroz has always sprinted up the mountains: the trails are where shows how it’s done. Wakeboards he senses their pure energy. The outdoorsman still runs today just as to practise on and the cable ski in he did as a ten-year-old and during the period of his greatest Ironman Estavayer-le-Lac beach await visi- victories across the breathtakingly beautiful peaks and crests near Les tors. www.alphasurf.ch Paccots. There are a variety of paths here for trail running-beginners and advanced.

ANGLING CONTACT Their passion for fishing have kept brothers Samuel, Jonas and Damian We would be pleased to assist you on the water since their childhood. They are keen to share their knowl- with research trips and your search edge about pike, European perch, zander, whiting and wels and take for interesting media topics. beginners and experts on the boat to the best fishing grounds: www.weguidefishing.ch. Visitors who want to eat a trout they have caught © FRIBOURG REGION themselves can walk from Fribourg’s lower town into the wild, romantic +41 (0)26 407 70 20 Gottéron Valley. Jacques Bossy gives the necessary instructions about [email protected] fish farming so that successful angling is guaranteed. The trout is then www.fribourgregion.ch taken to the restaurant and prepared as desired. www.flickr.com/fribourgregion www.pisciculturedugotteron.ch #fribourgregion

– 28 – AUTUMN OUT AND ABOUT AGAIN Autumn in Fribourg Region has it all! Nature puts on are reflected in the Schwarzsee and Lake Gruyère. a show and enchants us with crystal-clear light and On the subject of the Alps: The cows return to the a magnificent array of colours. Enjoy the view from valley – lucky visitors experience an Alpine descent – Mont Vully, across vineyards shining yellow in the sun, and people celebrate the traditional Bénichon or Kilbi, and the deep blue Lake Murten to the snow-capped a homage to the delicious specialities of Fribourg Bernese Alps. The dry reeds of the Grande Cariçaie Region as well. The hiking and mountain bike trails look like a golden blanket that is about to cover Lake between Schwarzsee, Jaun, Charmey, Gruyères, and Neuchâtel. In fact, the water everywhere begins to Moléson to Les Paccots remain open, as do many shine brightly, the Schiffenen Lake near Fribourg dis- mountain restaurants along the way. plays thousands of colours and the Fribourg Pre-Alps www.fribourgregion.ch

MOUNTAIN HOSPITALITY

Open: Visitors can enjoy the autumn in all its colourful glory in the A speciality: the Bénichon menu mountains. Many mountain restaurants remain open until mid- or end starts with saffron-cuchaule AOP of October (especially during the weekends). Around the Gastlosen, and Bénichon mustard. Visitors for example, everything is open from the Bärghus am Musersbergli and can stir the secret ingredients for the Chalet du Soldat to the Chalet Grat. Visitors cannot get enough of a sweet, tangy mustard together the panorama from the Buvette Hauta-Chia, situated halfway between with Gérald Saudan from the Schwarzsee and La Berra. No one needs to go hungry, even on La Berra: award-winning Saudan bakery in The Buvette La Berra and Le Gîte d’Allières are open. Fribourg.

– 29 – AUTUMN

WINES FROM VULLY BRECCASCHLUND

Vully is the sun-soaked shoreline for gourmets on Lake A primeval landscape carved out by glaciers with Murten. It is nice to know the origin of the Chasselas, impressive limestone rock walls, gently rolling Alpine the Traminer, the Pinot Noir and the Freiburger! The meadows and mighty sycamores in their autumn col- vineyard path between Môtier and Sugiez increases ours awaits the panorama hiker. The inns of St. Antoni, the anticipation of the visit to the wine cellars or rather Alp Cerniets and Alp Steinige Rippa also attract visi- the sense of well-being afterwards. On September tors with irresistible cheese dishes. A four-hour hike 18th, 19th and 20th 2020, the entire population of culminates in a stop for dessert at the Alp Hubel Rip- Vully celebrates the winegrowing festival in Praz. pa, where the view on Schwarzsee is the icing on the www.vully.ch cake. www.schwarzsee.ch

DEERSTALKING GOTTERON VALLEY

The rutting season begins at the Ice-hockey fans may be interested to know that the legendary town club end of September, when the harsh HC Fribourg Gottéron originated here. Hikers leave the Old Town of roaring of the stags reverberates Fribourg via the Bern Bridge and enter the wildly romantic ravine with through the forest. Guide Cyrille moss-covered tufa rugged rock faces, bubbling springs and enchanting Cantin knows where to observe autumn flora. A magical hike, particularly when it is misty. them. www.la-gruyere.ch

AUTUMN AND GAME IS SERVED How wonderful that the best Swiss game dishes are to of Fribourg, the restaurants la Clef and La Pinte des be found in Fribourg Region, for example, a superbly Trois Canards are renowned for their excellent game, roasted venison steak accompanied by home-made on Lake Murten there are the Bel-Air restaurant in Praz egg noodles, grandmother’s buttery cauliflower and and the Jura restaurant in Kerzers, and in Cerniat, the delicious chestnuts. Poire à Botzi AOP, the Fribourg Pinte des Mossettes as well as Le Gruyérien restaurant Region's speciality and of course, a fine red wine in Morlon. Other restaurants are insider tips, so it is from Vully are suitable accompaniments. There are best to speak to local people and ask them about the also French influences on the game dishes, such as “spécialités de la chasse” (game)! Bon appétit! wild boar, hare, duck and pheasant. In the capital

– 30 – AUTUMN

LAKE GRUYÈRE APP ALPINE DESCENT

Lake Gruyère in augmented reality: the new Novilé app The Alpine descents are the highlights in the farming further enhances what autumn naturally offers, with year and a fantastic spectacle. The animals, adorned its unbelievable colours, and adds value. On seven with flowers and magnificent bells, are accompanied sections of the hiking trail around the lake, information by the herdsmen and women in their traditional boards invite visitors to scan and experience history, costumes. Festivities with many traditional customs geology, fauna and flora and even a virtual flight over take place all around Fribourg Region. Schwarzsee the Isle of Ogoz. Repeated visitors collect points and Charmey: September 26th 2020; Semsales and which can be exchanged for cheese. Albeuve: October 3rd 2020.

MURTEN TRUFFLE MARKET TEYSACHAUX

The truffle market, with delicious finds from the region, The summit of Teysachaux near Les Paccots offers has become established as an autumn rendezvous. a round trip from Les Rosalys, which leads via the Visitors stroll through the car-free narrow streets of the Chaletbeizli Incrota, Alp Tremetta and the ridge to old town, taste and buy specialities and swap ideas. the final ascent. The view over Lake Geneva and the At the gala dinner in the evening, several Murten chefs Veveyse basin are never as beautiful as in the autumn brandish their ladles. November 21st - 22nd 2020 light. On the way back, it is possible to stop for a bite to eat in the Le Vuipay Alpine restaurant.

TIME FOR THE BÉNICHON CONTACT In autumn, the traditions in the Fribourg Pre-Alps come into their own. We would be pleased to assist you The Alpine summer is over and the fruits of people’s labour have been with research trips and your search gathered. The harvest and reunion with the valley is celebrated in the for interesting media topics. households with the traditional Bénichon menu. There are increasing opportunities to enjoy this in the context of public Bénichon festivals, where © FRIBOURG REGION guests are welcome. The meal is naturally the focal point, but the cows +41 (0)26 407 70 20 and goats parades adorned with flowers and the market stalls, games, [email protected] music and dancing are also a must. The mountain Bénichon in Charmey www.fribourgregion.ch (October 9th -11th 2020) is famous, while the Bénichon in Châtel-St-Denis www.flickr.com/fribourgregion (October 16th - 18th 2020) is an insider tip. Details at www.benichon.org. #fribourgregion

– 31 – WINTER WINTER SPORT IN FRIBOURG’S PRE-ALPS The family-friendly ski areas in Schwarzsee, Charmey, paced voyages of discovery. The unspoilt landscapes La Berra, Jaun, Moléson-sur-Gruyères, Rathvel and of Fribourg’s Pre-Alps are popular with walkers, cross- Les Paccots impress visitors with their well-main- country skiers and in particular, with snowshoe hikers. tained infrastructure, popular children’s ski schools Whether alone or with a guide who is familiar with the and competitive pricing. Many ski lifts are suitable area: well signposted and easily accessible routes go for beginners, school classes and nocturnal group through the tranquil, wintry countryside. Whether in experiences, for example La Chia near Bulle or on the the sunshine or by moonlight: a rewarding destination Gibloux near Villarlod. Skijöring, near Pringy, prom- with a restaurant always attracts visitors in Fribourg ises action with 1 PS, while in Cerniat and Charmey Region. www.fribourgregion.ch sled dogs that are raring to go look forward to fast-

SPORTING ACTIVITIES IN THE SNOW

Winter sport in figures: 160 km groomed slopes for Freestyle: Mathilde Gremaud (born 2000) is the high skiers and snowboarders, 84 km classic cross-country flyer in the freestyle skiing scene. At 18, she won the ski trails, 18 km cool sledge runs, 176 km signposted Olympic silver medal, at 19, gold at the X Games. snowshoe routes and winter hiking trails, hot spots for She derives the energy and peace of mind for these ice skating and curling and the Bains de la Gruyère, successes in her place of birth, La Gruyère, where with three mineral water pools heated to around 34°. as a two-year old she stood on skis for the first time on La Berra. There, for her, “Big Air” also quite simply means fresh air and a unique world view.

– 32 – WINTER

ICE PALACES SCHWARZSEE ON ICE

Whether it’s a pirate ship, penguin hill, grotto or Frozen, checked and approved as a stomping ground igloo: an enchanting, illuminated fairytale world at last! The 0.5 km2 natural ice rink in the middle of awaits warmly dressed visitors two kilometres from spectacular mountain scenery is very romantic and Schwarzsee. The keen ice artist Karl Neuhaus created has enough space for walkers, cross-country skiers, enchanting forms from bare ice for 30 years, while ice skaters, ice princesses, ice hockey players, younger people have now taken over. The winter night children and adults, as well as fans of the traditional and place are still magical. www.schwarzsee.ch curling to pass freely. www.schwarzsee.ch

NATIVITY TRAIL FOR EVERYONE

During the pre-Christmas season, the romantic town Day trippers, sporty families and adrenaline junkies of Estavayer-le-Lac becomes an all-encompassing will all be equally happy on the wonderful recreational work of art. Over 60 enchanting, original and elaborate mountain. The black run is legendary, but skiers can nativity scenes can be admired. A map guides have fun on the blue and red runs as well. A sledge visitors to the illuminated works created by shops, run and optimal routes for snowshoe hikers and winter school classes and individuals. December 5th 2020 hikers complete the range of activities offered. – January 6th 2021 www.moleson.ch, www.magicpass.ch

FABULOUS SNOWSHOE TOURS This is exactly what Cyrille Cantin likes: a small group to a delicious Fribourg fondue in a warm chalet and follows him on snowshoes from Moléson-sur-Gruyères listen to tales from the region. While the wind whis- on an easy circular tour through the glistening winter tles around the wooden shingles, goblins, fairies and night. It is quiet, participants can hear the crunch of witches wake up and the black and white chamois the snow and their own heartbeat. Dark fir trees are in the old legends come to life again. What are the majestically silhouetted against the snow-covered odds that this night will be memorable? Cyrille and slopes. It is enchanting to move forward in a steady his team from Attitude Oxygen have plenty of active rhythm. When were you actually last out and about in adventures in store. www.aoxy.ch the snow at night? Afterwards, participants sit down

– 33 – WINTER

LIGHT FESTIVAL MURTEN SECRET CIRCUIT

Murten always appears particularly enchanting in Jan- On the way to becoming the “Swiss capital of light”, uary. The shoreline and the romantic mediaeval town Murten has even more light productions in the dark glitter like a kaleidoscope. Around 30 Arteplages, a season. Between October and March, namely light-and-music spectacle in the German Church, before and after the Murten Light Festival (12 days unbelievable displays by the light magician “Spec- in January), the Secret Circuit illuminates a few taculaires” on the school façade and thousands additional events around the small town. Visitors walk of lanterns on the lake transform Murten into an all- to the light and sound productions of stories and fairy encompassing work of art. January 13th - 24th 2021. tales individually, i.e. with technological support. www.murtenlichtfestival.ch

GASTLOSEN WELLNESS ON THE MOUNTAIN

Grandmother’s hole: Visitors enjoy After fun in the snow and on the ice, the Bains de la Gruyère in Charmey the winter sun glistening through provide sensory indulgence and absolute relaxation. The magical watery the natural hole in the rock face of landscape (34°C) features a variety of saunas and uninterrupted views of the Gastlosen. Jaun tourism knows the mountain scenery of La Gruyère. Unique regional beauty treatments, where and when this spectacle can such as the chocolate body scrub, can be enjoyed. Total relaxation! be experienced. www.bainsdelagruyere.ch

AUTHENTIC FRIBOURG’S SPECIALITIES It is widely known that many alpine huts run a open wood fire and serves the traditional dishes of restaurant in Fribourg’s Pre-Alps. Many of them are La Gruyère. Visitors are spoilt for choice with fondue only accessible by foot or in the summer...but there “moitié-moitié”, Vacherin Fribourgeois AOP and other are, of course, places where the typical specialities cheese specialities. And then there is the Soupe de are available all year round. The Buvette au Creux chalet, ham and much more besides. But be careful: du Feu is a 40-minute walk from the village of Broc don’t forget to leave room for a dessert, for example and is also accessible by car. For once, the double the legendary meringues with La Gruyère double enjoyment of a gourmet meal in an authentic, cosy cream. A reservation is essential: Tel. +41 (0)79 755 alpine restaurant is available to everyone. The family 88 07. of Isabelle and René Julmy-Brodard cooks on an

– 34 – WINTER

SNOWSHOEING CROSS-COUNTRY SKI

The winter world of Les Paccots is ideal for snowshoe Skis are ideal for exploring and enjoying La Gruyère. tours. Peaceful forests alternate with open meadows Snow is virtually guaranteed on the Jaun-Charmey that have spectacular views… it is really magical on a 2 x 10 kilometre ski run, which is also suitable for clear winter night! The gourmet trail Régal’Raquettes beginners. Experienced cross-country skiers can starts from the car park in Les Verollys and covers 3.5 head for the more demanding high run on the Jaun km, giving participants the chance to savour a lot of Pass. Various circular runs, a fun park and magnificent regional food and drink. Friday, February 7th and Sat- views attract skiers to the Gibloux and Le Crêt. La urday, February 8th 2020, in the evening. Cuva near Les Paccots is the newest cross-country www.les-paccots.ch ski area.

SLEDGING UPGRADE YOUR SKI DAY!

Participants can take the cable- In Schwarzsee, purchasing a day pass or multi-day pass makes skiing way from Jaun at 1,580 m above even more fun. The cableways can be used free of charge on the day sea level, soak up the panorama before from 3 pm onwards. Whether it’s for the first few kilometres on the and then enjoy a magnificent six- slopes in the evening light or a stop at the Riggisalp restaurant terrace for kilometre sledge run down to the a hot Schoggi or mulled wine… the next day starts well – without the need valley. www.la-gruyere.ch to queue at the ticket window.

EVENTS IN THE SNOW CONTACT Cross-country skiers, skaters, ski tourers, snowshoe and winter hikers We would be pleased to assist you will find wonderful opportunities in Fribourg’s Pre-Alps to practise their with research trips and your search sport at leisure. And if a competition is planned: fit ski tourers are lured by for interesting media topics. the Gastlosen trophy from Jaun or Abländschen. It is essential to register quickly as no more than 1,200 participants are allowed. Sunday, February © FRIBOURG REGION 2nd 2020. The Brevet des Armaillis is a popular snowshoe event, which +41 (0)26 407 70 20 goes from Moléson-sur-Gruyères to Les Paccots in around 3.5 hours. [email protected] Sunday, January 26th 2020. There are suggestions for tours alone or with www.fribourgregion.ch a guide at www.fribourgregion.ch www.flickr.com/fribourgregion #fribourgregion

– 35 – CREDITS

Publication: FRIBOURG REGION

Editorial: Susi Schildknecht

Graphic design: Laura Fässler

Copyright photos: Pascal Gertschen, Pierre Cuony, RawKingPhoto, Ernie Enkelaar, Switzerland Tourism/Tina Sturzenegger, Mélanie Rouiller, Gian Marco Castelberg & Maurice Haas, Nicolas Repond, TPF, Sandra Mumprecht, aerostier.ch, Atelier Mamco, emoiphotos.ch, outsideisfree.ch, Lucas Lahargoue, Simon Ricklin, CreationPhoto_AurélieFelli, Daniel Ammann, Editions Berra, Maison du Gruyère, Nicolas Geinoz, Marc-André Marmillod, Switzerland Tourism/André Meier, Carim Jost, Papiliorama, Nicolas Geinoz, Hostellerie am Schwarzsee, Elise Heuberger, Claude-Olivier Marti, Croci & Du Fresne Fotografie, Boulangerie Saudan, Annie Bertram, Jo-Bersier, Museum Murten, Visual Moment, Christof Sonderegger, Vitrofestival Romont, Gilles Lansard, Terroir sans frontière, Siesta Oppi, Free4style, Franck Auberson, Charmey Tourisme, Stephen Pennells, REGIS COLOMBO/diapo.ch, Association régionale du Lac, Frédéric Rochat, juvimages.ch, Olivier Rapin, Maxime Schmid, Agence Parallèle, Switzerland Tourism/Jan Geerk, twintheworld, Marion Landon, Estavayer-le-Lac - Payerne Tourisme, Heimatschutz.ch, Fribourg Tourisme, Yog’Altitude, Switzerland Tourism/Lorenz Richard

Duplication of texts and photos is permitted only if the sources are acknowledged.