Neuchâtel

Another hot day in Neuchâtel, but with a cooling breeze off the lake for most part of the day. We got out early to explore the town, caught the bus into the centre where we were given good advice from the very friendly guy at the tourist office. With our map in hand, we set off to unravel the mysteries of this very splendid city. 

Our notes suggested that the first mention of the city was over 1000 year ago. Since then it has been burnt down twice, and obviously rebuilt to what we see today.  Neuchâtel has a population of about 34,000 people, but its infrastructure gives the impression of a much larger city - obviously a very wealthy city. 

The renaissance fountains, again are a feature of the city. These former laundry spots are now a focus point around the city, each tell their own story and date from the middle of the 16th century. Today many people were seen cooling off by using the water to wash their face and hands - the water is so clear that it may be possible to drink. 

The gardens are another feature throughout the city. Great care has been taken with these wherever we looked. 

The day was starting to warm up by the time we reached the lower levels of the Château, many steps in front of us, but, like true warriors, we were up for the challenge. It is thought that there had been an old castle on the site before this one was built in the 11th century. The climb was worthwhile for along the Château’s walls you get a great view across Lake Neuchâtel. 

Around the city are many animal sculptures by an Italian artist, Davide Rivalta. These are very impressive and popular with many school groups on excursions today. 

Other sculptures and art around the city blended well with the old city and modern additions. Along the lakeside, a very picturesque setting, we found more sculptures. 

More gardens, French style, are found at the Hôtel du Peyrou, a magnificent Louis XVI style mansion. Today the garden is only small compared with what it originally looked like when it extended right down to the lakeside. What remains of the garden gives us a glimpse of what it may have been like. 

Some other photos worthy of a look:

By the early afternoon it was starting to get much warmer - nearly 30 degrees - so we decided to head back to the van and bunker down for the rest of the day.  The cooling beeeze kept conditions rather pleasant for the rest of the day. 

And, HAPPY BIRTHDAY JAMES!