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Lausanne is above all green by nature. Nestling in the heart of an exceptional natural setting, between the mountains and the lake, the city breathes and enjoys a privileged environment. Built on three hills, it offers a multitude of breathtaking panoramas, with sublime views of the lake, the Alps and the Jura.
With some 350 hectares of parks and gardens, the Olympic Capital – one of the greenest cities in the world – also offers a wealth of opportunities for walking and cycling, relaxation, outdoor games and sports, as well as sightseeing in the heart of nature.
A stunningly beautiful setting
Whether it’s thanks to Lake Geneva – the largest lake in Western Europe the Lavaux vineyards – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – or the charm of the upper reaches of Lausanne with the Jura woodlands and the Chalet-à-Gobet sports area, Lausanne can pride itself on offering great bursts of fresh air and greenery at all times. Part urban, part natural, the city is undeniably appealing for its relaxed lifestyle gentle way of life and rich heritage.
Life in green
Encouraging nature wherever and whenever possible is the credo of the City of Lausanne in the management of its parks and gardens. These precious areas are like a breathing space during the day for residents and visitors alike. And to keep these green spaces as healthy as possible, Lausanne has been gradually abandoning the use of pesticides over the last twenty years, inviting the wilderness to reclaim the city. As a result, as you stroll through the city, you can spot here and there avenues of wild flowers, hedgerows along the pavements and even flowering meadows.
Panorama walk
With its 500m difference in altitude, Lausanne offers as many beautiful viewpoints of the city, Lake Geneva, the Lavaux vineyards, the Alps and the Jura. On the popular Panorama Walk, you can discover the city’s 10 most beautiful vantage points on the way down. This sublime six-kilometre walk, which takes just two hours to complete, is guaranteed to thrill walkers.
The joys of outdoor sports
Just a few minutes from the town centre, the vast Mauvernay plain, bordered by forest, offers a wide range of sporting and outdoor activities. There’s a choice of running, mountain biking, horse riding and VITA trails (a sports trail with exercise stations). Lovers of nautical activities can enjoy an outing on the water by hiring a pedalo, kayak or small electric boat. And for a meditative escape on the lake, choose the stand-up paddle. Standing on a board with an oar in your hand, you can let your mind wander while enjoying a sublime view of Lausanne.
Lavaux UNESCO
The jewel among jewels, the Lavaux vineyards, which stretch between Lutry and Vevey, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Shaped by the hand of man since the 11th century into a mosaic of terraces that seem to link the lake, the earth and the sky, it captures the soul of its visitors just as it has fascinated numerous artists living in its picturesque villages.
Signposted footpaths offer views of Lake Geneva and the Alps, while small rubber-tyred trains provide a more leisurely ascent. Along a footpath stretching from Lausanne to Montreux, the Lavaux winegrowers – key players in the preservation of this exceptional site – invite visitors to discover the unique and authentic beauty of their vineyards in all seasons. And as you stroll through the vineyards, you’ll find the perfect complement in the form of impromptu tastings of wines and local produce in the cellars or on the terraces. Enjoy your visit!
Discover the Lausanners