Grandson and the lake from Yverdon-les-Bains © ADNV – Lionel Bourgeois
Djamila shares with you her favorite places, both as a local and as an art historian, between old stones and the good life. Following the waters of Lake Neuchâtel, we follow her between Grandson, Yverdon-les-Bains and the Grande Cariçaie.
Djamila lives in the Nord Vaudois region, thanks to a trip taken by her father and uncle, who fell in love with the area. Originally from German-speaking Switzerland, they moved here because of the picture-postcard landscapes they discovered on a trip when they were teenagers.
The town of Grandson reminds Djamila of running on the slopes of certain roads. Today, she is fascinated by the Château and its history, having studied art history.
As a reminder, the Château is currently being renovated. To visit it, it is necessary to sign up for guided tours.
📍 For more information on the Grandson Castle
Djamila then guides us along the shores of Lake Neuchâtel. Along some of the roads, she remembers running or cycling along them many times. For her, the region is idyllic for sports in all seasons!
Cycling digs in!
Djamila usually likes to take a break at Bøtanik, whether for a coffee or a bite to eat.
She appreciates the canal-side location, which brings life to the city center and connects the historic heart of the city to Lake Neuchâtel.
The menu features a variety of vegetarian and meat dishes. The menu changes regularly with the seasons. Don’t forget to try our homemade lemonade!
📍 Find out more about Bøtanik
A few steps from the Bøtanik, we arrive at the Place Pestalozzi, where the Château d’Yverdon-les-Bains proudly sits.
The Château is also home to the Musée d’Yverdon et Région, bearing witness to the past and historical heritage of northern Vaud.
📍 For more information on the Museum of Yverdon and Region
Last but not least, we end our journey at the Centre Pro Natura in Champ-Pittet.
On our way to the wooden pontoons and observatory, Djamila explains that she used to come here regularly to exercise, during her gym classes at the Gymnase.
Along the way, we observe frogs and birds – you just have to be patient and quiet. We also get a magnificent view of Grandson, our early-morning starting point.
On the way back to the center, Djamila tells us about the vegetable garden at the entrance and the various plants that grow there throughout the year. These herbs and flowers are cooked in the restaurant, which also serves brunches.
We won’t have a chance to try it out this time, but our walk will be punctuated by an ice cream from La Ferme in Yvonand.
📍 Find out more about theChamp-Pittet Pro Natura Centre
If you wish to complete your itinerary, Djamila recommends a stop at the Menhirs de Clendy.
Whether you’re a heritage enthusiast, a fan of new hikes or simply curious to see the region from a new angle, En balade avec Djamila invites you to explore Northern Vaud with an authentic eye.
Agence ADNV / Office du tourisme du Nord vaudois
Avenue de la Gare 2
1400 Yverdon-les-Bains
T +41 24 423 03 13