What are the Caves Ouvertes?
Each spring, dozens of wine producers across the Neuchâtel wine region open their cellars to the public for a weekend of tasting, conversation and discovery. The domaines stretch along the lake from Vaumarcus in the west to Cressier in the east, passing through the iconic villages of Auvernier, Cortaillod and Boudry. It is one of the most convivial wine events in French-speaking Switzerland.
In 2026, the event runs on Saturday 8 and Sunday 9 May, with cellars typically open from 10:00 to 18:00. Entry is often free or requires a small glass deposit.
The problem with driving
Wine tasting and driving do not mix — full stop. Even two or three glasses spread over an afternoon can put you over Switzerland's strict 0.5‰ legal limit. A fine starts at CHF 800, driving licence suspension is common, and the risk to yourself and others is real. During the Caves Ouvertes weekend, police controls on the lake road are not unusual.
Parking near the domaines is also limited. On Saturday afternoon, the main road through Auvernier or Cortaillod can become congested, and designated car parks fill quickly.
A vineyard tour by taxi: how it works
The simplest approach is to call AàZ Taxicab and describe your planned route: which villages, how many cellars, roughly how long at each stop. We can plan a circuit that picks you up in Neuchâtel, drives you along the lake, waits or returns at a set time, and brings you home safely at the end of the afternoon.
Sample circuit: Auvernier → Cortaillod → Boudry
- Depart Neuchâtel 10:30 — arrive Auvernier for opening time
- Visit 2 cellars in Auvernier (approx. 1.5 hours)
- Short drive to Cortaillod — 2 more domaines
- Lunch stop in Boudry or Cortaillod
- Final cellar visit, then return to Neuchâtel by 17:30
Total taxi distance: around 25–35 km depending on your stops. Shared among a group of four, the cost is very reasonable.
Tips for a successful Caves Ouvertes day
- Book your taxi the week before — Sunday in particular fills up fast.
- Eat a proper meal beforehand and pace yourself between tastings.
- Bring cash: some small producers do not accept cards.
- Check each domaine's individual opening hours in advance, as they can vary.
- If you plan to buy bottles, let your driver know — we will make room.
Beyond the wine: the lakeside experience
The Neuchâtel wine road in May is spectacular. Vines are budding, the lake glitters in the spring light, and the villages are at their most welcoming. Taking a taxi lets you look out the window instead of focusing on traffic — a genuine part of the experience.
Planning a vineyard tour for Caves Ouvertes?
Call 032 724 12 12 to arrange your custom circuit — door-to-door, no drink-drive worries.