Hiking in Lausanne

There is no shortage of hiking trails in Lausanne. It has to be said that the location lends itself perfectly to them. Sports enthusiasts of all levels can enjoy trails along the shores of Lake Geneva, as well as those laid out near the forests and plains on the heights of the city. Several starting points are easily accessible by public transport, and these footpaths allow you to discover a varied landscape.

Distance: 11 km

Perfect for a family walk, the lakeside path between Ouchy and Lutry takes just 2 hours to complete. The route starts at the Haldimand Tower and leads to the port of Pully and its little train. The path is so easy that you can even take a scooter, pushchair or mountain bike. It is accessible all year round, in all seasons, as much of the path is paved. Dogs are also welcome.

The path allows you to stroll along the banks of Lake Geneva. It then leads to the port of Ouchy in Lutry. You'll also come across a number of beaches inviting you to relax. As well as the superb views, you can enjoy the marina, the municipal swimming pool and the little train circuit, which is just as suitable for children as it is for adults.

Tip: park at the Haldimand Tower (don't forget your parking disc - fines are common in the area) near the Olympic Museum.

Itinerary : 1h30

A very easy stroll, the Parc du Bourget stretches between lake and forest. This nature reserve attracts tourists and locals alike, especially in summer. When the fine weather arrives, the park becomes a popular spot for picnics while enjoying the lush greenery beside the lake.

During your stroll through the park, you'll be able to do some sport and feed your brain at the same time. This open-air tour takes in a number of natural sights, including Bernard Schorderet's famous Granite Fountain, the Château de Vidy and Major Davel's monument. Finally, on a summer's evening, we recommend a diversion to the firefly pond. These insects were introduced to Lake Geneva in the 1940s, and the path leads to the riparian forest, a protected ecosystem as well as a botanical, ornithological and cultural site.

This historic park is full of anecdotes. A stele stands in honour of Major Davel, who was beheaded in 1723. The forest developed during the 19th century. Louis Bourget, a professor of pharmacy and medicine, then created a bird park, which was opened in 1941.

Tip: the park offers guided tours departing from in front of the Musée romain de Lausanne-Vidy.

Distance: 6 km; duration: 1 hour 45 minutes

This downhill walk is ideal for admiring the most beautiful panoramas of Lausanne, between lakes and mountains. Starting from the 35-metre-high Sauvabelin Tower, you can admire the entire town, the lake and the three surrounding regions (the Alps, the Jura and the Plateau). At the foot of the tower, you can wander down the forest paths to discover other views as far as the Signal de Sauvabelin.

Here are the 5 not-to-be-missed stops on your walk:

• Tour de Sauvabelin: with a 360° view of the town, mountains and lake from the top.
• Signal de Sauvabelin: its viewpoint overlooks the town and the surrounding area.
• The cathedral esplanade: with a view of the rooftops of Old Lausanne in the foreground, and the lake and Saint-François church in the distance.
• The Montbenon esplanade: next to the statue of William Tell stands one of the most beautiful balconies overlooking Lake Geneva
• Crêt de Montriond: at the very top of this hill is a unique view of Lake Geneva and the city.

Tip: you can get directly to Lac de Sauvabelin by taking the 16 bus. Second option: take metro line 2 to Grancy station.

Distance: 8 km; duration: 3 hours

The Renard trail follows the course of the Vuachère stream, which meanders between Lausanne and Pully as far as Lake Geneva. During the three hours of bucolic and urban strolling, you'll spot birds such as the grey heron and squirrels. For the record, it's now rare to come across a fox on this route. The flora is just as rich, with woods, meadows and riverbanks offering lush vegetation.

The route starts at the car park along the Quai d'Ouchy (metro 2 station Ouchy), near the Haldimand Tower, and ends in the heights of Lausanne at Praz-Séchaud. You will pass through the Parc de Denantou to discover the Thai Pavilion, a gift from the Prince of Thailand to the city of Lausanne. After the park, the trail passes over the Pont du Diable and ends in Pully, with its old town and lakeside.