Things to see and do Romandy

The Flon warehouses district is currently very popular with Lausanne's various cultural circles and real estate developers, and contrasts sharply with the medieval city.

In the ^19th century, goods arrived from the port of Ouchy or from the railway station. Businessman Jean-Jacques Mercier facilitated traffic by digging the metro. Goods were deposited on rails and taken up the Bel-Air elevator (which today leads to the Fnac) to continue westwards to the Chauderon station. Traffic ceased in 1974, and the former warehouses were taken over by culture, before becoming objects of covetousness for major groups. Today, the ^19th-century Flon buildings that have survived include the N2O bar and the Butterfly store. For the Mercier family, incorporated as LO Holding, Flon has long been a hole in the ground. In several former warehouses, the cellars are magnificent and still undeveloped. Enter, for example, the former customs warehouse at no. 17 (opposite Maniak): first you'll see a large glass roof and, in the basement, a vast space under arches that serves simply as a storeroom for the ground-floor stores.

From the Flon, you can see the recently renovated Métropole Lausanne shopping center building just above, as well as the Bel-Air tower, Switzerland's first "skyscraper", which appears here much longer than it is high. You can also see the Maison du peuple, sometimes humorously referred to as the "Kremlin". It houses the headquarters of the Socialist Party and the People's Workers' Party.

Today, in addition to art galleries, the Flon district is home to the well-known MAD and Atelier volant nightclubs (opened in the 1980s), trendy bars like Pur and N2O, high-rent apartments and studios for photographers and architects, a jazz school, and a growing number of stores.

As a result, Flon has earned its letters of nobility, and many Lausanneers say that their city's new alternative center is now moving further west. Artists tend to move towards Sébeillon and Malley. The disused Sévelin train station has been transformed into a vocational school, and culture has taken over the former warehouses: the Docks, the Sévelin 36 dance school, the Arsenic theater. Further afield, in Malley, the Théâtre Kléber Méleau is located in the former gasworks.

In winter, a free skating rink is set up on the Flon.

Housed in a building dating from 1618 with facades painted in Mannerist style, the museum allows visitors to grasp the full extent of these constructions that have shaped the mountain landscape. The bisses are small irrigation canals on gentle slopes (0.5 to 1%). They are the legacy of Roman ingenuity, but it was not until the Middle Ages that farmers began to tame the run-off water. The effigy of the CHF 100 banknote since 2019 is the great bisse of Ayent.

This unique site is worth a visit. At an altitude of 700 m, it offers a sumptuous view of the lake and the Alps. This leisure park with its large green spaces will meet the expectations of young and old. There is plenty of room to spend the day with family and friends. The choice is very large: water balls, car circuits, trampoline, minigolfs, kid's club for the little ones with a plethora of games, activities, workshops, an animal park, walks, volleyball, outdoor games, an adventure park, tree climbing and a zip line and a family coaster.

From Yvonand to Démoret, the trail ranges between Valleys and Vaud countryside and offers breathtaking views of Lake Neuchâtel. Throughout the course, the hiker has the opportunity to discover the many cultural riches of this surprising region, such as the St. Martin Tower, the Oak-Pâquier round Church, the Roman catacombs of Démoret, etc.

Space Gutenberg allows to discover the techniques of typography and printing in old, lithograph, the manufacture of paper to the tank, etc. The machines, which it is possible to manipulate, date mainly from the th. You will also be able to acquire a printed text in the old, on homemade paper!

The Yvonand Tourist Office, located in Yvonand, Switzerland, is a tourist information and reception center. It is located next to the Hôtel-Restaurant de la Gare, just a 2-minute walk from the Yvonand train station. The office offers advice on the many things to do in the region, as well as useful documentation to help you organize your stay, such as brochures, hiking maps and information on accommodation and local events.

The Sainte-Croix/Les Rasses Tourist Office is located in the center of Sainte-Croix, next to the town hall. It's within easy walking distance of the train station, just 5 minutes away. The office offers advice on what to do in the area, as well as useful documentation to help you organize your stay, such as brochures, hiking maps and information on accommodation and local events. During the winter season, a tourist information chalet is also available in Les Rasses, at the foot of the ski lifts. Here you can book ski lessons.

Not far from the famous Diable gorges, in a magnificent setting,  this professional adventurers team offers varied water activities: rafting, hydrospeed, kayaking, canoeing, canyoning, mountain activities- via ferrata,  mountaineering - and an adventure playground with several levels. Reservations required for a tonic weekend with friends.

The online tourist guide observes the Office du Tourisme du Moléson in Gruyères. Visitors can obtain information on the region's tourist attractions and get tips on what to do. Among the attractions mentioned is a playground located in Moléson-sur-Gruyères. It can be reached on foot in 5 minutes from the free parking lot and public transport. The playground is designed for children and features games such as a castle with 4 towers, slides and ropes. There's also a pretty wooden square with various games for children of all ages. Admission to the playground is free.

The association Pré en Bulle proposes to create links between the districts of Grottes, Cropettes, Montbrillant by activating the associative and collective fabric. It sets up activities for children, teenagers and the general public. In addition to the bicycle exchange, it offers an original way to discover Geneva, and more particularly the Grottoes district. Why not take a bike or simply your two feet, a headset and let yourself be guided through the unusual places of the district, in a completely free way? The audio recordings are provided by the association, as well as the mp3 player if you don't have one with you. Visiting this neighborhood with locals, on a bike, is a very personalized way to get to know all the details.

In the ^18th century, Carouge was home to about 450 artisans. The toponymy of the roads and the architecture of the houses of the city testify to this past wealth. A new city built according to a checkerboard plan, the old districts are articulated around the current Ancienne and Vautier streets. Do not hesitate to explore these small streets to soak up the charm of this city, which already seems far from Geneva. In the past, the Genevans liked to come here to indulge themselves, in total contradiction with the austerity encouraged by the Calvinist ideas.

It's a beautiful park, adorned with magnificent trees, and a great extension to the walk along the road that climbs to the end of the botanical garden. The Penthes estate (owned in 1650 by the lord of Penthaz, hence the name) climbs a hillside, offering spectacular views of Lake Geneva and Mont Blanc. In the center stands the Château de Penthes, a ^19th-century manor house. The Château de Penthes gourmet restaurant offers an escape between Indonesia and Morocco, a stopover in a very pleasant tropical setting!

The Espace images de Vevey is the permanent showcase of Images Vevey's activities, dedicated to the presentation of contemporary photographers. Opened in 2010, the Espace Images is the result of close collaboration between the Cultural Service of the City of Vevey and the Festival des Arts Visuels. Exhibitions are proposed and the photographers are only chosen among the participants of the Vevey International Grand Prix of Photography. This enables the incredible visual heritage that arrives in Vevey every two years to be showcased in a lasting way.

Marmottes Paradis is home to five of the world's fourteen species, from Russia and North America. Housed in 400 m² pens, they are protected from predators by fences. In one of the parks, a tunnel allows you to observe the interior of the burrows through large portholes. Two other parks are equipped with cameras so you can examine the marmots' underground activity. An educational center provides information on the different species of marmot in the world.

Multicolored and fragrant, the Rambertia alpine garden intoxicates you with the scent of its thousand alpine flowers and plants, half of which come from other countries in Europe, America, Asia and Nepal in particular. The garden's location, at 1,980 m, on the eastern ridge overlooking the Rochers-de-Naye combe, was chosen for its favorable climate. The garden is dedicated to Eugène Rambert, a Montreux poet. It is accessible via a 400 m path from the terminus of the little train.

Always dynamic and available, seniors are full of good ideas to share so as not to remain isolated. The Guides d'accueil of the Mouvement des aînés de Vaud offer a wide range of activities throughout the year, including leisure activities, excursions and training courses. They are also the ones who will guide you on a day out in Lausanne to discover all its secrets. The kindness, knowledge and, above all, the benefit of sharing the lives of local people will enrich your visit to the city. Don't hesitate to call on their knowledge.

Lake Geneva is a stopover for a large number of migratory birds on their way from Siberia to Europe, Africa or South America to make their wintering quarters. An artificial island has been created for them, offering them peace and quiet in a beautiful setting. You'll be able to observe them in excellent conditions, and find out all you need to know at the bird house and on educational panels. Two telescopic sights are freely accessible.

Experience Geneva's historical moments as if you were there! Every Sunday, at the Brunswick monument, a guide in a cap awaits you and accompanies you to seven statues of historical figures who share the urban landscape of Geneva. A dozen actors and actresses in costume perform 4 to 5 minute sketches. Head for the landing stage for the re-enactment of Sissi's assassination, Rousseau Island, the bust of Henry Dunant or the Reformers' Wall... A walking tour, exclusively outdoors, with no particular difficulty.

The Domaine de la Vigne Blanche overlooks the harbour of Geneva. The Domaine offers a wide range (19 in total!) of high quality Swiss wines: whites, rosés and reds. Among the famous wines of the domain, La Vigne Blanche, La Réserve de la Commune de Cologny and La Cardamone, are in their image, close to nature and the soil. Solid, generous, fine and authentic, they all have an Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée and carry the Vinatura label.

When you arrive by air, this airport kiosk will provide touristic information about Geneva, its region and neighboring France. Very handy info about eventual discovery ideas, upon arrival!

These circuits, lasting approximately 5 hours, were initiated in 2012. On the programme: guided tours in small groups (max. 7 people) in the vineyards of Chablais or Lavaux, with wine tasting and meal included. A very privileged way to discover the particularities of Lavaux wines. You follow the coast in a mini bus with guides and enjoy privileged access to the estates. The price is degressive for groups, but even if the quality is there, it may still put off some.

A fun way to discover Sion's historic town center, as well as other routes such as Lac de Montorge and Domaine des Îles. Kids love this little red-and-white train that looks just like a big one! For adults, it's a great way to discover the region while saving a little money. It runs all summer long, but can also be privatized for events involving ten or more people. Along the way, listen out for historical information.

The first non-stop round-the-world balloon flight started in 1999 from Château-d'oex. Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jone, who made this crazy challenge on board the Breitling Orbiter 3, inspired the creation of this museum in the former town hall. It includes a reception area, a shop and a partly multimedia exhibition presenting the history of the hot-air balloon. Invention, technology, adventure: everything has been done to recreate the world of balloonists. The Breitling Orbiter 1 capsule can be seen near the balloon take-off area.

Plage de Crottaz, or Plage de la Grotte, is a small open-air relaxation area, a gravel beach in a picturesque location, with a 3-meter diving board as well as changing rooms, toilets and showers. Access is via a tarmac path between two properties (be sure to mark the path). It's sheltered from the wind and shaded in places, which is good to know on hot summer days. Gonelles beach is nearby.

Below the vineyards, the little beach at Les Gonelles in Corseaux is a great place to take a dip in the lake! To get there, follow the signs for the campsite, and the little beach is right next door ! There's no shade, and the sun beats down hard in summer, so always plan to go early in the morning or at the end of the day. As these beaches are often crowded during the day in summer, you'll appreciate a little peace and quiet all the more.

This establishment plays an essential role in the development and promotion of tourism in the whole canton of Vaud and the Lake Geneva region. On the website, you will discover the destinations not to be missed and all the natural or cultural discoveries, wine tourism, festivals... So even if we do our utmost to detail everything in this guide, the advisers at Point I in Ouchy will be able to give you their final tips for visiting!

It's a very interesting and original concept. If you're a book lover or a keen cyclist, you won't want to miss these guided tours. It's an excellent idea to explore a city, in a small group and by bike, following in the footsteps of literary personalities who have left their mark on its history. The idea comes from Sita Pottachuvera, an independent heritage guide, literature enthusiast and eco-citizen. Discover Geneva's heritage through its literature. At the end of the tour, visitors are invited to discuss the works they have read.

Some Genevans have forgotten about it, but it is still there! Every day since 1962, this clock marks the hours by evoking a traditional Genevan tune. To accompany it, a procession of 13 floats and 42 bronze figures re-enact the events of December 12, 1602, a key date in the history of Geneva, when the Genevans repelled the assaults of the Duke of Savoy's troops. A creation of Edouard Wirth, watchmaker, with painted decorations and bronze sculptures of Geneva artists. An unusual visit to see a work of local craftsmanship.

Geneva Escapade team members are deeply attached to their city, and will share its beauty, wealth and past with you through its history: traditional escapades or original and unusual themes, such as "Bridges", international tours like "Humanitarian Geneva" or special tours for "Newcomers". The website offers a fine selection of tailor-made guided tours, corporate events, local produce tastings and afterwork tours.

With her electric, colorful universe, somewhere between street art and pop art, this painter and sculptor from Savoie offers us a breath of fresh air through her works. Listed and referenced on the international art market (she's one of the top 10 contemporary artists today), she works in acrylic, the paint that enables her to construct her works: misshapen faces, joyful and metaphorical atmospheres. "Art is the most profitable and safest investment in the world, even before gold and real estate

Nature lovers, this is your territory. This nature reserve is managed by the Pro Natura center for nature protection. The setting is magnificent. The 2-hectare estate is home to some forty species of birds, which you can try to observe from the top of the observation tower overlooking a natural lakeshore. There are many activities on offer: guided tours, birdwatching, workshops for children and adults, and night-time explorations.

How did people live in Colonia Lulia Equestris? Housed in the foundations of the basilica dating from the 1st century AD, this museum reminds us that Nyon was the capital of an imperial territory. It presents evidence of life in the ancient city: archaeological objects from the Roman period unearthed on the territory of the colony of Nyon (amphorae, jewellery, coins, cult objects), a model of the centre of the ancient city and an exhibition of the results of the latest excavations. An interesting visit for history buffs and neophytes alike.

The Lake Geneva Museum presents the culture and nature of the lake in a fun and interactive way. Take a trip to an authentic fishing hut, aboard a lifeboat or on a steamboat. Relive the adventures of the Piccard family with the submarines and balloons that made them famous. Meet the people of the lake through a collection of model boats. Follow the adventures of a drop of water to discover the flora and fauna of the lake. Dream in front of the giant aquariums and the ballet of the fish of this region.

This romantic castle from 1730 houses a permanent exhibition on life in Switzerland since the 17th century. The first floor evokes the ideals of 18th century noble and bourgeois society, while the cellars explain the rural economy of the Ancien Régime, of which the castle was the center. The^first floor shows how Switzerland changed from the Ancien Régime to a modern federal state, from an agricultural country to an urbanized and industrial nation. Temporary exhibitions and guided tours of the vegetable garden are also organized.

This leisure area offers outdoor activities all year round. In summer, it's zip-lining, footgolf or "trottinherbe", while in winter, it's snowshoeing or ski lessons. But it's the après-ski that interests us most! The restaurant is housed in an old stable and serves fondues by the fireplace. The place is pure authenticity, with a rich, woody decor: mountain chalet atmosphere guaranteed.

Created in 1973 by some 3 municipalities who wanted to enhance their wealth and take ownership of the idea of a balanced heritage management of nature and forest-pastoral economic activities, this park of 518 km ², now stamped Regional Natural Park covers districts: Morges, Nyon and North-Vaud. More than 31 000 people live within its perimeter. Its landscapes are made up of fertile lands at the foot of the Jura, forest masses and wooded pastures on the Alps of the Jura ridge and the Vallée de Joux. 520 km of trails with numerous signposted routes and thematic paths, some of which offer a breathtaking view of the Geneva basin and the Alps. In winter, cycling and hiking allow for cross-country skiing, track skiing or snow snowshoes. Many cottages of Alpine pastures are scattered in the park, some of which are still made of AOC. The Park offers a multitude of possibilities for excursions and accommodation in peaceful villages in the heart of a preserved region.

Situated between Lake Geneva and the Jura mountains, the Nyon region is an attractive tourist destination in more ways than one. There's a wealth of things to discover, not only thanks to its renowned vineyards, but also to its history, which is sometimes closely linked to neighboring Franche-Comté. The region's heritage is evident in its castles, museums and vibrant cultural life. Nyon Région Tourisme will provide you with all the information you need to organize your stay in Switzerland. Of course, a gourmet stopover by the lake to taste the perch fillets is a must.

It is the "Quadruvium" (Latin word for crossroads) where Sigismond (king of Burgundi) was crowned and to which the city probably owes its name. The name of this square is due to its circular shape and its crossing function between two main traffic lanes. Especially in the past, with a road coming from Annecy and the other from Chambéry. This meeting place was very frequented by the people of Carouge and the Savoyards, who were discussing in a convivial atmosphere. There you can see the monument of the Nine Municipalities together; this work which was made by a pupil of Rodin, James Vibert, dates from 1925 and its 11 figures of women celebrate the annexation of several communes (of which Carouge obviously forms part) to the canton of Geneva. The monument was planned for the centenary of the event, but the First World War has delayed its inauguration.

Built in 1818 and 1822, this neoclassical temple is worth a visit for its astonishing Romanesque-Byzantine wood carvings (1919-1930) by Ernest Christen, pastor and artist. It is a building renowned for its interior paintings: paintings by Eric Hermès and stained glass windows by master glass artist Charles Wasem (based on models by Eric Hermès) complete the decoration. Some of the frescoes evoke the former parish of Carouge. The stained glass windows are also masterpieces for the period in which they were made. In addition to worship, concerts are organized.

In the heart of a building with an innovative past (the former SIP industrial building), the contemporary art center showcases the full range of contemporary artistic culture (video, painting, photography, sculpture, drawing, music, architecture, design...). Its aim is to organize original exhibitions that anticipate current art trends, and to enable young artists in residence to develop their art. Through exhibitions and the Dynamo cinema, local and international artists invite the public to discover their unique and sometimes ephemeral work. The library, with its 3,000 books on contemporary art, is open to the public.

Originally, this magnificent building served an industrial purpose as a hydroelectric plant. It was here that the power supply to the town's fountains, houses, factories and the curtain dam on the Pont de la Machine was regulated, and disused a century later. It was built in the middle of the Rhône between 1883 and 1892 by engineer and politician Théodore Turrettini. Listed as a historic monument, it hosts ballets, shows and concerts, and boasts excellent acoustics.

The Vallorbe Tourist Office, located in Rue des Grandes-Forges 11, is a must for visitors to the town. The staff are renowned for their friendliness and availability. They are ready to provide information and advice on tourist activities in the region. In addition to the Tourist Office, the building also houses the Musée du Fer et du Chemin de Fer, a popular attraction in Vallorbe. Visitors can therefore take advantage of their visit to discover the region's industrial history.

Originally, three brothers joined forces to preserve musical instruments in the 1920s. Visiting this museum is a bit like opening a jewellery box... This enchanting museum houses some sixty exceptional pieces manufactured between 1750 and 1940. Your eyes will sparkle as you discover clocks, snuffboxes, dolls, mechanical musical instruments and old everyday crafts. The most emblematic element is the fairground organ from 1900 and an orchestra composed of ten different instruments.

The Orbe Tourist Office is located next to the market square, just a 5-minute walk from the Orbe train station. It is a tourist information and reception center where visitors can get advice on what to do in the area and find useful documentation to organize their stay, such as brochures, walking maps and information on accommodation and local events.

Located on the listed site of the Grandes-Forges, in the heart of Vallorbe, this museum traces the history of the ore that brought prosperity to the town, but also of the railway, which also played an important role in the development of the region. You should not only see the forge in operation, with the panting of the paddle wheels, the rustling of the belts and the noise of the anvils, but also discover the epic of the railways in the Vaudois region presented on the upper floors.

The online travel guide presents the Valais Cantonal Museums in Sion. These museums include the Musée d'art du Valais, the Musée d'histoire du Valais and the Musée de la nature du Valais. Located in the upper old town of Sion, they offer visitors opportunities for discovery and enjoyment. The collections of these museums cover the entire cultural history of the Valais. The mission of the Cantonal Museums of the Valais is to assemble, conserve, study and make accessible to the public reference collections. The museums also maintain privileged relationships with other Valais cultural institutions, such as the Jardin alpin Flore-Alpe in Champex, the Musée de Bagnes in Le Châble, the Musée d'Isérables, the Musée des bisses in Ayent, the Musée du vin in Sierre and Salgesch, the Musée Olsommer in Veyras and the Lötschentaler Museum in Kippel.

The tourist office has lots of ideas for visits. The capital of the Valais, with its southern flair, offers a wide range of things to discover. Culture, gastronomy, sports, events: the city is dynamic and has retained its charm of yesteryear. Lose yourself in the cobbled streets, climb the castles of Valère or Tourbillon... Take a 2.5 km walk through the old town and discover seven thousand years of history.