The Ballad to Béatrix (told path)

A walk where the forest tells a story

The Ballade à Béatrix is not just a simple walk: it is a narrated trail that transforms walking into an adventure. Along the way, in the forest above Saint-Cergue, you follow the thread of a story related to the village's ancient castle. Children no longer walk just to walk: they move forward to discover what happens next. It is this little narrative spring that makes the outing magical for families.

Free and accessible by train from La Côte, this walk ends with a panorama that opens up to Lake Geneva. A reward for the hikers with a beautiful view after a route punctuated by the twists and turns of the story.

What your children will discover

Along the path, children discover the story of the castle of Saint-Cergue brought to life. The narrated format brings the past to life: you imagine the characters, you guess what happened here long ago. It is a gentle and concrete way to awaken their curiosity for local history, without lessons or speeches.

The forest itself is a discovery ground: the trees, the light filtering through the firs, the sounds of the underbrush. And upon arrival, the panorama over Lake Geneva offers a strong moment, the opportunity to spot together the shores, the villages, and, on clear days, the Alps in the distance.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

You walk while following the thread of the story, stopping to observe, listen, and imagine. The atmosphere is calm and playful: children quickly take ownership of the narrative and want to reach the next stage. It is a walk that is at a child's height, without pressure.

Parents appreciate the contemplative aspect of the forest path, punctuated by the pleasure of telling and inventing. Plan a small picnic or snack to share in front of the view: it is often the moment that everyone remembers.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 4 years old, the narrated format captivates even the youngest. Ideal up to curious pre-teens.
• Duration: plan for a quiet morning or afternoon, taking the time to follow the story. Check the exact route before you leave.
• Price: free. It is a freely accessible trail in the forest.
• Stroller accessibility: the forest terrain is not suitable for strollers. Prefer a baby carrier for the little ones.
• Transport: Saint-Cergue is accessible by train with the NStCM line from Nyon (CFF network). The trail starts from the forest above the village.
• To bring: hiking shoes, water, snacks, and something to cover up depending on the mountain weather.
• Ideal season: from spring to autumn, when the forest is welcoming and the panorama clear.

Parents' tips

• Let your child set the pace: they are the hero of the story, and they will move forward on their own to find out what happens next.
• Bring snacks for the panorama stop, it is the highlight of the show and the favorite break for children.
• Bring binoculars to spot the shores of Lake Geneva and the villages from the viewpoint.
• Check the weather: a clear sky makes the final view much more beautiful.
• Reread or invent together the continuation of the story on the way back, prolonging the pleasure.

Useful information

• Address: Saint-Cergue, in the forest above the village (district of Nyon, canton of Vaud).
• Hours: trail in the heart of nature, freely accessible. Adapt your outing to the season and conditions.
• Access: by train via the NStCM line from Nyon (CFF connection), then on foot from the village to the forest. Parking is possible in Saint-Cergue.

Why we recommend it

Because it is one of the rare walks that makes even the most reluctant children want to walk: the story carries them from stage to stage. Free, easily accessible by transport from La Côte, it combines nature, local heritage, and a panorama of Lake Geneva as a reward. A complete and original outing.

In two words

A free narrated trail in the forest of Saint-Cergue that tells the story of the castle while walking, and ends with a beautiful view of Lake Geneva. The ideal walk to make children love walking.