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Lake Neuchâtel facts for kids

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Lake Neuchâtel
French: Lac de Neuchâtel
German: Neuenburgersee
Lac de neuchatel.jpg
With Lakes Biel and Morat in the background
Karte Neuenburgersee.png
Coordinates 46°54′N 6°51′E / 46.900°N 6.850°E / 46.900; 6.850
Primary inflows L'Orbe (La Thielle), Le Bey, La Brine, L'Arnon, Ruisseau de la Vaux, Le Vivier, L'Areuse, Le Seyon; Canal Oriental, Le Buron, Ruisseau de l'Epena, La Menthue, Ruisseau de Crêt Moron, Ruisseau de Longefont, Ruisseau de Robin, Ruisseau de la Molliette, Canal de la Broye
Primary outflows Zihlkanal / Canal de la Thielle
Catchment area 2,670 km2 (1,030 sq mi)
Basin countries Switzerland
Max. length 38.3 km (23.8 mi)
Max. width 8.2 km (5.1 mi)
Surface area 218.3 km2 (84.3 sq mi)
Average depth 64.2 m (211 ft)
Max. depth 152 m (499 ft)
Water volume 13.77 km3 (11,160,000 acre⋅ft)
Residence time 8.2 years
Surface elevation 429 m (1,407 ft)
Settlements Neuchâtel, Grandson, Yverdon, Estavayer-le-Lac (see list)

Lake Neuchâtel (called Lac de Neuchâtel in French and Neuenburgersee in German) is a beautiful lake in western Switzerland. It's a very important natural feature in the country. While other lakes like Lake Geneva and Lake Constance are bigger overall, Lake Neuchâtel is the largest lake that is completely inside Switzerland. This makes it a special place for both nature and people.

About Lake Neuchâtel

Lake Neuchâtel is mainly located in the canton of Neuchâtel. However, parts of the lake also touch the cantons of Vaud, Fribourg, and Berne. This means many different areas of Switzerland share this amazing lake. It is the 59th largest lake in all of Europe.

What Makes the Lake Special?

Lake Neuchâtel is not just a pretty sight; it's also very important for the local economy.

  • Tourism: Many people visit the lake for holidays and outdoor activities. They enjoy boating, swimming, and relaxing by the water.
  • Wine Production: The areas around the lake are famous for making wine. Most of the wine produced here is white wine, which is enjoyed by many.
  • Local Industries: The city of Neuchâtel, which sits right on the lake, is well-known for its long history of watch-making. It also has a history of creating beautiful woven artworks called Indiennes tapestries.

Lake Measurements

Lake Neuchâtel has some impressive numbers. It is about 38.3 kilometers (23.8 miles) long and 8.2 kilometers (5.1 miles) wide. The lake covers an area of 218.3 square kilometers (84.3 square miles). Its deepest point reaches 152 meters (499 feet)! The water in the lake completely changes every 8.2 years, which means it's always fresh.

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