3 Best Hotels in Murten, Fribourg and Neuchâtel

Talk about having it all: this converted 19th-century winegrower's home has stylish rooms with marble bathrooms, a lakefront location, a to-die-for terrace and garden, and even an indoor pool. There's great food available in the bistro and restaurant Wednesday through Sunday, as well as a renowned wine cellar. Located in the Fribourg Vully wine region, the hotel is by the canal that connects the Murten and Neuchâtel lakes. Incidentally, ours means "bear" in French, which explains the teddy bear in each room. The hotel is 3½ km (2 miles) north of Murten.

In the heart of Murten's Old Town, this cluster of patrician houses dating back to 1428 conjures images of centuries gone by. Yet step inside, and the modern sits well alongside the revered history of this establishment, thanks to the sensibilities of the Joachim family, which has been running the show since 1978. Rooms and suites are individually designed and vary greatly; try out the Royal Senior suite if 16th-century baroque drawing rooms are your thing. The tavern and veranda are pleasant venues for the generous morning spread, and a changing à la carte fine-dining menu keeps you sated in the restaurant.

With an ideal setting, the Schiff has a sheltered terrace overlooking a shady park and waterfront promenade. Inside, you'll find an eclectic collection of heavy wood furniture and antiques, sometimes overwhelmed by the floral wallpapers that can make some guest rooms feel cluttered. The gourmet restaurant, Lord Nelson, has lake views and wraps around the garden. Specialties include local fish and inventive combination dishes such as beef tournedos and giant shrimp. Bicycles are welcome, and the staff can help you rent one in town.