by Alexandre Truffer, ©RomanDuVin.ch 2007

The small village of Cressier possesses true character. An indisputably majestic castle overlooks the village, and many ancient houses have old sheen walls. This doesn't mean that it's some sort of open-sky museum. On the contrary, the town resounds with the cries of children playing in the fountain in the central square.

The wine-making path leaves the village for the vineyards that spread out along the limestone hill. Hiking uphill, you discover the contours of Lake Bienne and Lake Neuchâtel, as well as the Entre-Deux-Lacs region.

The path is well marked with signs and green and red posts. Another trail, a bit more challenging, goes through the forest and around the Jeanjacquet Castle. This manor was certainly worth seeing from up close, but the three vicious watchdogs guarding it don't give curious passersby much freedom.

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