Course des Pavés

Course des Pavés takes place in La Neuveville, a municipality on Lake Biel in Switzerland’s canton of Bern. Its name refers to the paved old streets that form the event's core. The program includes road racing, short trail running, Nordic walking, youth races, and the Course Mérite+ for athletes with disabilities. Around 1,800 runners participate annually, with the Association Course des Pavés organizing a traditional local race that maintains a strong connection to the town. The 7.5 km Contre-la-Montre is the most distinctive event. Runners begin individually from Lake Biel’s shore, completing a 1.5 km loop through the medieval old town’s cobbled streets. The Trail de 7 Lieues provides a longer 24 km route with 800 m of elevation gain, initially following Lake Biel before heading into the paths of Chasseral Natural Park. An 8.5 km Nordic Walking race and children’s races ranging from 550 m to 1,650 m, held at dusk, are also offered.