A Floating Escape at Hotel Palafitte – Neuchâtel's Hidden Gem
If you’re looking for a truly unique Swiss experience just a short distance from Geneva, I highly recommend a weekend getaway (or even a special one-night stay) at Hotel Palafitte in Neuchâtel. This is not your usual lakefront hotel — it’s the only hotel built on stilts in Europe, and staying here feels like a dream you don’t want to wake up from.
We visited earlier this spring, and from the moment we arrived, it felt like we had left behind everything familiar. The sounds of the city faded, replaced by the gentle lapping of water beneath our feet. If you’re craving quiet luxury and a setting that blends nature with design, this might be your new favorite place in Switzerland.
Getting There
Neuchâtel is incredibly accessible — just over an hour by car from Geneva or about 1.5 hours by train. From the station, you can take a short taxi or Uber ride directly to the hotel. If you feel like stretching your legs, a walk along the lakeside promenade is also a lovely option. We drove and parked at the hotel (free parking, a plus!).
Why It Feels So Special
The hotel consists of a series of private pavilions, 24 of which are directly over Lake Neuchâtel. Each room has a private terrace, and the overwater ones have ladders that lead you straight into the lake — yes, you can swim right from your room! Inside, the rooms are modern and cozy with floor-to-ceiling windows that let you enjoy the lake view even from bed. It’s minimal in the best way — all about the surrounding nature and stillness.
The architecture was designed to respect the environment, and it shows. Everything feels intentional and tranquil.
What to Do
Swim and relax: The best part of staying at Palafitte is simply being there. We brought books, played cards on the terrace, and swam several times a day. If you stay in summer, the lake is perfect for a dip.
Bike to town: The hotel offers free bikes. Neuchâtel’s charming old town is just 10 minutes away, and it’s worth visiting for its quaint streets, Saturday market, and cafés. Don’t miss the Latenium museum if you're into archaeology or lakeside history.
Kayak or paddleboard: Available at the hotel and totally worth it for a sunrise session on the lake.
Dinner on the terrace: The hotel’s restaurant, La Table de Palafitte, serves seasonal dishes with a focus on local ingredients. We had dinner as the sun set over the water and it was one of the highlights of the trip. Even if you don’t stay overnight, it’s a great place for a special meal.
What to Know Before You Go
Book early: The lake pavilions sell out fast, especially on weekends. If you can, book at least a month in advance.
Pack layers: Mornings and evenings by the lake can be chilly, even in summer.
Great for couples: While families are welcome, the vibe here is very peaceful. It’s a perfect romantic escape.
Shoulder season is ideal: May, June, and early September are great months — warm enough to swim, but without the high-season crowds.
Would I Go Back?
Absolutely. This was one of those experiences that leaves you feeling like you've discovered a secret. Hotel Palafitte is peaceful, beautifully designed, and offers something I’ve never found anywhere else in Switzerland — a chance to wake up over the water.
So if you’re looking for a Swiss escape that feels far away (but isn’t), and offers both design and calm, put this one on your list. It’s a little indulgent, but absolutely worth it — a floating moment of stillness in your busy life.
— Diana