Nature & Animals
Want to take your children into nature? The Romandy region of Switzerland is full of outdoor activities: wildlife parks like Bois-de-la-Bâtie in Geneva or Juraparc in Vallorbe, educational farms, botanical gardens, caves, and nature reserves by the lakes.
Whether you're looking for a stroller-friendly walk around a pond, a wolf encounter, or a boat ride on the underground lake of St-Léonard, you will find ideas here suitable for every age and every season — many are free.
Here is our selection of nature and animal activities for your children.
Our selection of nature and animal activities in Romandy, Switzerland
Family favourites
Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
View listing
Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
View listing
Rossens dam footbridge: 105 metres suspended above the lake
Fancy a short walk that leaves a long memory? Between the Rossens dam and Pont-la-Ville, a 105-metre metal footbridge runs ten metres above Lake Gruyère. Free, spectacular, and walked as a loop in less than an hour with the children.
View listing
Rossens dam: the 83-metre wall that created Lake Gruyère
How do you make a lake? In 1948, an 83-metre concrete wall blocked the Sarine and flooded a whole valley: Lake Gruyère was born. The Rossens dam is discovered from its surroundings, with an easy 2.3-kilometre walk along the water.
View listing
The lake and dam of Moiry: a nature walk above Grimentz
Fancy a walk beside a turquoise lake as a family? Above Grimentz, the Moiry dam holds back a high-altitude lake of incredible blue, facing the glacier. The top of the dam can be walked with a pushchair, and marmots often pop their heads out in the evening.
View listing
The forest trail in Grimentz: a playful walk with Sylvette the owl
Fancy a playful nature walk for the children in Grimentz? In the Ilot Bosquet forest, an educational trail guided by Sylvette the owl offers 11 wooden stations to learn all about the forest: flora, fauna, games and quizzes. With a big picnic area by the river.
View listing
The Animal Trail in Grimentz: a footprint hunt for families
Fancy a playful nature walk starting from Grimentz? The Animal Trail links Grimentz to St-Jean by getting you to guess the mountain animals: footprints to recognise, silhouettes hidden in the forest and riddles on the panels. An easy trail, perfect with children.
View listingNature and animals by canton
Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
View listing
Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
The Sources of the Venoge in L'Isle: a nature walk along the water
Fancy a family nature walk at the foot of the Jura? In L'Isle, an easy walk leads from the castle park to the sources of the Venoge, where the water gushes from the rock. A refreshing and instructive outing, along the water.
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The Étang du Sépey in Cossonay: a nature walk in frog country
Fancy a free nature walk as a family? Near Cossonay, the Étang du Sépey reserve is home to frogs, newts and birds in a peaceful setting. An easy walk to observe the life of a pond, especially in spring.
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The Gardens of Vullierens Castle: irises, sculptures and the Roi Lézard for families
Fancy a magical nature day as a family? In Vullierens, on the heights of La Côte, the Castle Gardens unfold 400 varieties of irises, giant sculptures and the « Royaume du Roi Lézard » (Kingdom of the Lizard King), a nature trail for children. All with a view of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
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The Bain des Dames in Saint-Prex: a swimming cove on Lake Geneva
Fancy a quiet family swim on Lake Geneva? In Saint-Prex, at the foot of the medieval old town, the Bain des Dames is a small peaceful cove: a pebble beach, a wooden platform for sunbathing and showers. A free nature stop, facing the lake.
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The St-Jean bisse and the Puchotaz waterfall: a walk along the water
Fancy a cool walk along the water as a family? Starting from Grimentz, the St-Jean bisse leads to the lovely Puchotaz waterfall. An easy walk much loved by children, with a shelter equipped with games for a picnic at St-Jean.
View listing
The Animal Trail in Grimentz: a footprint hunt for families
Fancy a playful nature walk starting from Grimentz? The Animal Trail links Grimentz to St-Jean by getting you to guess the mountain animals: footprints to recognise, silhouettes hidden in the forest and riddles on the panels. An easy trail, perfect with children.
View listing
The forest trail in Grimentz: a playful walk with Sylvette the owl
Fancy a playful nature walk for the children in Grimentz? In the Ilot Bosquet forest, an educational trail guided by Sylvette the owl offers 11 wooden stations to learn all about the forest: flora, fauna, games and quizzes. With a big picnic area by the river.
View listing
The lake and dam of Moiry: a nature walk above Grimentz
Fancy a walk beside a turquoise lake as a family? Above Grimentz, the Moiry dam holds back a high-altitude lake of incredible blue, facing the glacier. The top of the dam can be walked with a pushchair, and marmots often pop their heads out in the evening.
View listing
The Five Ponds Tour in Arbaz: an easy family nature loop, pushchair-friendly
Fancy an easy, pushchair-friendly nature walk above Sion? In Arbaz, the Five Ponds Tour rolls out a 6.4 km loop visiting several ponds, with picnic areas by the water. A free and restful walk, perfect for families.
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The Marmot Park in Anzère: feeding the marmots as a family
Fancy getting close to marmots as a family in Anzère? At the entrance to the resort, the Parc à Marmota, set up at the Hôtel-Restaurant La Poste, lets children watch and feed marmots, rabbits and Valais blacknose sheep. A simple nature encounter, while parents enjoy the terrace.
View listing
Equitypes – Versoix
Looking for a gentle moment in the company of horses with your children? In Versoix, the Equitypes centre offers pony rides and caring riding lessons, by reservation, in a green setting beside the lake.
View listing
Bioparc Genève
Looking for a nature outing very close to Geneva? Bioparc Genève, in Bellevue, brings you face to face with more than 250 animals from around a hundred species along shaded paths, perfect for a family day in the open air.
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Bondex Woods: nature walk in Céligny
The Bois de Bondex, in Céligny, is a small nature reserve nestled in the Geneva enclave of Terre Sainte. Forests, meadows, and marshes coexist there over approximately 6.6 hectares, with astonishing biodiversity. A peaceful nature outing to observe, walk, and breathe with family.
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Ferme de la Gavotte in Lancy
Feeling like a breath of fresh air and tender moments with the kids, just a stone's throw from Geneva? La Ferme de la Gavotte, in Grand-Lancy, welcomes families for free all year round to observe, feed, and pet a joyful bunch of animals.
View listing
Touvière Pond – Avully
Want to take a simple nature walk with the kids by the Rhône? The Touvière pond in Avully is a little wild spot where you can observe fish, frogs, and dragonflies along an easy, outdoor, and free trail.
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Animal Park of Bois-de-la-Bâtie
Want a nature outing, free and simple with the kids? The Parc aux Animaux du Bois-de-la-Bâtie, on the heights of Geneva, brings together nearly 300 local animals to observe up close, outdoors and in almost any weather.
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Cascade de Môtiers and its cave: an adventure in the footsteps of Rousseau
What if a simple walk became a real exploration? In Môtiers, in the heart of the Val-de-Travers, a waterfall tumbles down the Jura cliff and, at its foot, a natural cave opens up where Jean-Jacques Rousseau loved to take refuge. Ten minutes' walk, a lamp in your bag, and the adventure begins.
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Panoramic tour of Chaumont
On the heights of Neuchâtel, the Chaumont panoramic tower offers a 360-degree view of the Three Lakes and the Alps. It is easily accessible by funicular, making it a simple nature outing for the whole family.
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Neuchâtel Botanical Garden
In the heart of Neuchâtel, the Botanical Garden combines tropical greenhouses, thematic gardens, and nature trails. A family outing in the great outdoors, with free admission.
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Areuse Gorges
A trail along the water, between footbridges, waterfalls, and the famous stone bridge of Saut de Brot. A true nature immersion just a stone's throw from Neuchâtel.
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Creux du Van
A massive horseshoe-shaped rocky circus, dizzying cliffs, and free-roaming ibex: the Creux du Van is one of the most beautiful hikes in the Neuchâtel Jura, perfect for families with good walking children.
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Rossens dam: the 83-metre wall that created Lake Gruyère
How do you make a lake? In 1948, an 83-metre concrete wall blocked the Sarine and flooded a whole valley: Lake Gruyère was born. The Rossens dam is discovered from its surroundings, with an easy 2.3-kilometre walk along the water.
View listing
Rossens dam footbridge: 105 metres suspended above the lake
Fancy a short walk that leaves a long memory? Between the Rossens dam and Pont-la-Ville, a 105-metre metal footbridge runs ten metres above Lake Gruyère. Free, spectacular, and walked as a loop in less than an hour with the children.
View listing
Papiliorama – Swiss Tropical Gardens in Kerzers: a tropical adventure for the whole family
A dome of butterflies, a tropical jungle, and a tropical night… At the Papiliorama in Kerzers, you explore nature in a different way, warm and in all weather, with curious children.
View listingIndoor activities
Bex Salt Mines: a journey to the heart of the mountain by little train
And what if you took your children on a little train to dive into the heart of the mountain? At the Bex Salt Mines, the oldest salt mine still in operation in Switzerland, you can explore vast galleries hand-carved at a constant 18 °C. An unforgettable underground adventure.
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Vallorbe Caves
And what if you took your children to explore an underground river and a stalactite forest in the heart of Vaud Jura? At the Grottes de Vallorbe, you descend underground at your own pace, flashlight and app in hand, to discover one of the most beautiful underground networks in Switzerland.
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Pro Natura Center of Champ-Pittet and the Grande Cariçaie
What if your children set off to explore the largest lake marsh in Switzerland? At the Pro Natura Center of Champ-Pittet, wooden walkways delve into the reeds of the Grande Cariçaie, leading to a birdwatching tower. An unforgettable nature outing by Lake Neuchâtel.
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Equitypes – Versoix
Looking for a gentle moment in the company of horses with your children? In Versoix, the Equitypes centre offers pony rides and caring riding lessons, by reservation, in a green setting beside the lake.
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Bassins Distillery
In Bassins, in the Parc Jura vaudois, the Distillerie de Bassins cultivates about a dozen aromatic and medicinal plants organically and distills essential oils from them. Once a year, its free Open House day opens the fields and the still to curious visitors: a nature and sensory discovery to experience with family.
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Neuchâtel Botanical Garden
In the heart of Neuchâtel, the Botanical Garden combines tropical greenhouses, thematic gardens, and nature trails. A family outing in the great outdoors, with free admission.
View listing
Vivarium de Meyrin
Looking for an unusual nature outing with the kids, just a stone's throw from Geneva? The Vivarium of Meyrin is home to over 200 reptiles from around the world, to be discovered in warmth, sheltered, and in any weather.
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Botanical Garden of Geneva
Want a big breath of fresh green air with the kids, without worrying about your wallet? The Botanical Garden of Geneva, by the lake in Chambésy, combines a zoo, tropical greenhouses, and vast lawns, all in a free and open setting year-round.
View listingOutdoor activities
Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
View listing
Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
View listing
Rossens dam: the 83-metre wall that created Lake Gruyère
How do you make a lake? In 1948, an 83-metre concrete wall blocked the Sarine and flooded a whole valley: Lake Gruyère was born. The Rossens dam is discovered from its surroundings, with an easy 2.3-kilometre walk along the water.
View listing
Rossens dam footbridge: 105 metres suspended above the lake
Fancy a short walk that leaves a long memory? Between the Rossens dam and Pont-la-Ville, a 105-metre metal footbridge runs ten metres above Lake Gruyère. Free, spectacular, and walked as a loop in less than an hour with the children.
View listing
The St-Jean bisse and the Puchotaz waterfall: a walk along the water
Fancy a cool walk along the water as a family? Starting from Grimentz, the St-Jean bisse leads to the lovely Puchotaz waterfall. An easy walk much loved by children, with a shelter equipped with games for a picnic at St-Jean.
View listing
The Animal Trail in Grimentz: a footprint hunt for families
Fancy a playful nature walk starting from Grimentz? The Animal Trail links Grimentz to St-Jean by getting you to guess the mountain animals: footprints to recognise, silhouettes hidden in the forest and riddles on the panels. An easy trail, perfect with children.
View listing
The forest trail in Grimentz: a playful walk with Sylvette the owl
Fancy a playful nature walk for the children in Grimentz? In the Ilot Bosquet forest, an educational trail guided by Sylvette the owl offers 11 wooden stations to learn all about the forest: flora, fauna, games and quizzes. With a big picnic area by the river.
View listingActivities by budget
Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
View listing
Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
Rossens dam: the 83-metre wall that created Lake Gruyère
How do you make a lake? In 1948, an 83-metre concrete wall blocked the Sarine and flooded a whole valley: Lake Gruyère was born. The Rossens dam is discovered from its surroundings, with an easy 2.3-kilometre walk along the water.
View listing
Rossens dam footbridge: 105 metres suspended above the lake
Fancy a short walk that leaves a long memory? Between the Rossens dam and Pont-la-Ville, a 105-metre metal footbridge runs ten metres above Lake Gruyère. Free, spectacular, and walked as a loop in less than an hour with the children.
View listing
The St-Jean bisse and the Puchotaz waterfall: a walk along the water
Fancy a cool walk along the water as a family? Starting from Grimentz, the St-Jean bisse leads to the lovely Puchotaz waterfall. An easy walk much loved by children, with a shelter equipped with games for a picnic at St-Jean.
View listing
The Animal Trail in Grimentz: a footprint hunt for families
Fancy a playful nature walk starting from Grimentz? The Animal Trail links Grimentz to St-Jean by getting you to guess the mountain animals: footprints to recognise, silhouettes hidden in the forest and riddles on the panels. An easy trail, perfect with children.
View listing
The Gardens of Vullierens Castle: irises, sculptures and the Roi Lézard for families
Fancy a magical nature day as a family? In Vullierens, on the heights of La Côte, the Castle Gardens unfold 400 varieties of irises, giant sculptures and the « Royaume du Roi Lézard » (Kingdom of the Lizard King), a nature trail for children. All with a view of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
View listing
The Marmot Park in Anzère: feeding the marmots as a family
Fancy getting close to marmots as a family in Anzère? At the entrance to the resort, the Parc à Marmota, set up at the Hôtel-Restaurant La Poste, lets children watch and feed marmots, rabbits and Valais blacknose sheep. A simple nature encounter, while parents enjoy the terrace.
View listing
L'Arche des Crétillons in Chalais: the animal farm to discover as a family
Fancy meeting farm animals as a family? In Chalais, at the foot of Vercorin, L'Arche des Crétillons opens its agritourism estate to visitors: you wander freely among the animals, taste the farm's produce and enjoy the refreshment hut. A simple, endearing nature outing.
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The Marmot Trail in Vercorin: a nature-and-games descent for families
Fancy a mountain walk that thrills children? In Vercorin, the Marmot Trail descends from Crêt-du-Midi through alpine pastures and arolla pine forest, dotted with seven playful stations about the world of marmots. A perfect nature outing for families, in summer and autumn.
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Trient Gorges in Vernayaz: a canyon on walkways for the family
What if you offered your children a dive into a dizzying canyon, on wooden walkways clinging to the rock? In Vernayaz, just a stone's throw from the train station, the Gorges du Trient plunge into a narrow crevice where the torrent roars. A short, refreshing, and spectacular visit, perfect in the height of summer.
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Arboretum du Vallon de l'Aubonne: 200 hectares of nature to explore with the family
Fancy a big breath of fresh air with the children on the Vaud part of La Côte? In Aubonne, the Arboretum du Vallon de l'Aubonne unfolds nearly 200 hectares of forest and meadows, crossed by themed trails and home to more than 3000 species of tree. A nature day to be savoured at child height.
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Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
View listing
Bex Salt Mines: a journey to the heart of the mountain by little train
And what if you took your children on a little train to dive into the heart of the mountain? At the Bex Salt Mines, the oldest salt mine still in operation in Switzerland, you can explore vast galleries hand-carved at a constant 18 °C. An unforgettable underground adventure.
View listing
Les Pléiades and the AstroPléiades trail
Want a trip that combines mountain trains, stars, and flower-filled meadows? At Les Pléiades, above Blonay, your children take the train from Vevey, walk along a path dedicated to the solar system, and discover a 360-degree panorama of Lake Geneva and the Alps.
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Ranch Paradisio
In Begnins, on the heights of La Côte, Ranch Paradisio is a family stable where children meet ponies, horses and small farm animals. Pony rides, courses, camps and farm birthday parties for 3-12 year-olds. Booking by phone; exact address and prices to be confirmed directly with the ranch.
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Equitypes – Versoix
Looking for a gentle moment in the company of horses with your children? In Versoix, the Equitypes centre offers pony rides and caring riding lessons, by reservation, in a green setting beside the lake.
View listing
Charlemont Farm: birthdays and workshops in Crans-près-Céligny
At the Charlemont farm, in Crans-près-Céligny, your children enjoy a real moment with the animals. Farm birthdays, holiday camps, and seasonal workshops: all by reservation, in the picturesque setting of the Charlemont estate, hosted by Le Monde de Rachel.
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Rochers-de-Naye by cogwheel train
What if you offered your children a trip to over 2000 meters in altitude, starting from Montreux? The cogwheel train climbs in 48 minutes to a vast panorama over Lake Geneva and the Alps. A breathtaking family outing.
View listingActivities by season
Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
View listing
Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
View listing
The Animal Trail in Grimentz: a footprint hunt for families
Fancy a playful nature walk starting from Grimentz? The Animal Trail links Grimentz to St-Jean by getting you to guess the mountain animals: footprints to recognise, silhouettes hidden in the forest and riddles on the panels. An easy trail, perfect with children.
View listing
The forest trail in Grimentz: a playful walk with Sylvette the owl
Fancy a playful nature walk for the children in Grimentz? In the Ilot Bosquet forest, an educational trail guided by Sylvette the owl offers 11 wooden stations to learn all about the forest: flora, fauna, games and quizzes. With a big picnic area by the river.
View listing
The Sources of the Venoge in L'Isle: a nature walk along the water
Fancy a family nature walk at the foot of the Jura? In L'Isle, an easy walk leads from the castle park to the sources of the Venoge, where the water gushes from the rock. A refreshing and instructive outing, along the water.
View listing
Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
View listing
Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
View listing
The St-Jean bisse and the Puchotaz waterfall: a walk along the water
Fancy a cool walk along the water as a family? Starting from Grimentz, the St-Jean bisse leads to the lovely Puchotaz waterfall. An easy walk much loved by children, with a shelter equipped with games for a picnic at St-Jean.
View listing
The Animal Trail in Grimentz: a footprint hunt for families
Fancy a playful nature walk starting from Grimentz? The Animal Trail links Grimentz to St-Jean by getting you to guess the mountain animals: footprints to recognise, silhouettes hidden in the forest and riddles on the panels. An easy trail, perfect with children.
View listing
The forest trail in Grimentz: a playful walk with Sylvette the owl
Fancy a playful nature walk for the children in Grimentz? In the Ilot Bosquet forest, an educational trail guided by Sylvette the owl offers 11 wooden stations to learn all about the forest: flora, fauna, games and quizzes. With a big picnic area by the river.
View listing
Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
View listing
Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
The St-Jean bisse and the Puchotaz waterfall: a walk along the water
Fancy a cool walk along the water as a family? Starting from Grimentz, the St-Jean bisse leads to the lovely Puchotaz waterfall. An easy walk much loved by children, with a shelter equipped with games for a picnic at St-Jean.
View listing
The Animal Trail in Grimentz: a footprint hunt for families
Fancy a playful nature walk starting from Grimentz? The Animal Trail links Grimentz to St-Jean by getting you to guess the mountain animals: footprints to recognise, silhouettes hidden in the forest and riddles on the panels. An easy trail, perfect with children.
View listing
The forest trail in Grimentz: a playful walk with Sylvette the owl
Fancy a playful nature walk for the children in Grimentz? In the Ilot Bosquet forest, an educational trail guided by Sylvette the owl offers 11 wooden stations to learn all about the forest: flora, fauna, games and quizzes. With a big picnic area by the river.
View listing
The Sources of the Venoge in L'Isle: a nature walk along the water
Fancy a family nature walk at the foot of the Jura? In L'Isle, an easy walk leads from the castle park to the sources of the Venoge, where the water gushes from the rock. A refreshing and instructive outing, along the water.
View listing
Equitypes – Versoix
Looking for a gentle moment in the company of horses with your children? In Versoix, the Equitypes centre offers pony rides and caring riding lessons, by reservation, in a green setting beside the lake.
View listing
Bioparc Genève
Looking for a nature outing very close to Geneva? Bioparc Genève, in Bellevue, brings you face to face with more than 250 animals from around a hundred species along shaded paths, perfect for a family day in the open air.
View listing
Ferme de la Gavotte in Lancy
Feeling like a breath of fresh air and tender moments with the kids, just a stone's throw from Geneva? La Ferme de la Gavotte, in Grand-Lancy, welcomes families for free all year round to observe, feed, and pet a joyful bunch of animals.
View listing
Animal Park of Bois-de-la-Bâtie
Want a nature outing, free and simple with the kids? The Parc aux Animaux du Bois-de-la-Bâtie, on the heights of Geneva, brings together nearly 300 local animals to observe up close, outdoors and in almost any weather.
View listing
Salève Cable Car – Haute-Savoie
Want a spectacular ascent above Lake Geneva, just steps from Geneva? The Salève Cable Car takes your children to a grand balcony of nature, with breathtaking views and trails to explore as a family.
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Lac des Vernes - Meyrin
Want a bubble of nature close to the city, without a car and without a reservation? Lake des Vernes, in Meyrin, is a small body of water bordered by reeds where your children can observe birds, dragonflies, and frogs along an easy and accessible path all year round.
View listingBy age
Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
View listing
The Marmot Park in Anzère: feeding the marmots as a family
Fancy getting close to marmots as a family in Anzère? At the entrance to the resort, the Parc à Marmota, set up at the Hôtel-Restaurant La Poste, lets children watch and feed marmots, rabbits and Valais blacknose sheep. A simple nature encounter, while parents enjoy the terrace.
View listing
L'Arche des Crétillons in Chalais: the animal farm to discover as a family
Fancy meeting farm animals as a family? In Chalais, at the foot of Vercorin, L'Arche des Crétillons opens its agritourism estate to visitors: you wander freely among the animals, taste the farm's produce and enjoy the refreshment hut. A simple, endearing nature outing.
View listing
Pissevache Waterfall in Vernayaz: 116 meters of drop at the roadside
Want to see an impressive natural spectacle without walking for hours? In Vernayaz, the Pissevache waterfall cascades from nearly 116 meters right by the road, just a stone's throw from Martigny. A refreshing and free stop, perfect for breaking up a trip in Valais and dazzling the kids.
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Arboretum du Vallon de l'Aubonne: 200 hectares of nature to explore with the family
Fancy a big breath of fresh air with the children on the Vaud part of La Côte? In Aubonne, the Arboretum du Vallon de l'Aubonne unfolds nearly 200 hectares of forest and meadows, crossed by themed trails and home to more than 3000 species of tree. A nature day to be savoured at child height.
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Leysin Deer Park: a free-roaming herd, with free access
Looking for a gentle encounter with animals, with no ticket or timetable to keep an eye on? In Leysin, the deer park is home to a herd of free-roaming semi-wild deer, visible all year round, free of charge. A perfect nature stop with young children.
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Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
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Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
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Rossens dam: the 83-metre wall that created Lake Gruyère
How do you make a lake? In 1948, an 83-metre concrete wall blocked the Sarine and flooded a whole valley: Lake Gruyère was born. The Rossens dam is discovered from its surroundings, with an easy 2.3-kilometre walk along the water.
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Rossens dam footbridge: 105 metres suspended above the lake
Fancy a short walk that leaves a long memory? Between the Rossens dam and Pont-la-Ville, a 105-metre metal footbridge runs ten metres above Lake Gruyère. Free, spectacular, and walked as a loop in less than an hour with the children.
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The St-Jean bisse and the Puchotaz waterfall: a walk along the water
Fancy a cool walk along the water as a family? Starting from Grimentz, the St-Jean bisse leads to the lovely Puchotaz waterfall. An easy walk much loved by children, with a shelter equipped with games for a picnic at St-Jean.
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The Animal Trail in Grimentz: a footprint hunt for families
Fancy a playful nature walk starting from Grimentz? The Animal Trail links Grimentz to St-Jean by getting you to guess the mountain animals: footprints to recognise, silhouettes hidden in the forest and riddles on the panels. An easy trail, perfect with children.
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Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
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Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
View listing
Rossens dam: the 83-metre wall that created Lake Gruyère
How do you make a lake? In 1948, an 83-metre concrete wall blocked the Sarine and flooded a whole valley: Lake Gruyère was born. The Rossens dam is discovered from its surroundings, with an easy 2.3-kilometre walk along the water.
View listing
Rossens dam footbridge: 105 metres suspended above the lake
Fancy a short walk that leaves a long memory? Between the Rossens dam and Pont-la-Ville, a 105-metre metal footbridge runs ten metres above Lake Gruyère. Free, spectacular, and walked as a loop in less than an hour with the children.
View listing
The St-Jean bisse and the Puchotaz waterfall: a walk along the water
Fancy a cool walk along the water as a family? Starting from Grimentz, the St-Jean bisse leads to the lovely Puchotaz waterfall. An easy walk much loved by children, with a shelter equipped with games for a picnic at St-Jean.
View listing
Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
View listing
Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
View listing
Rossens dam: the 83-metre wall that created Lake Gruyère
How do you make a lake? In 1948, an 83-metre concrete wall blocked the Sarine and flooded a whole valley: Lake Gruyère was born. The Rossens dam is discovered from its surroundings, with an easy 2.3-kilometre walk along the water.
View listing
Rossens dam footbridge: 105 metres suspended above the lake
Fancy a short walk that leaves a long memory? Between the Rossens dam and Pont-la-Ville, a 105-metre metal footbridge runs ten metres above Lake Gruyère. Free, spectacular, and walked as a loop in less than an hour with the children.
View listing
The St-Jean bisse and the Puchotaz waterfall: a walk along the water
Fancy a cool walk along the water as a family? Starting from Grimentz, the St-Jean bisse leads to the lovely Puchotaz waterfall. An easy walk much loved by children, with a shelter equipped with games for a picnic at St-Jean.
View listing
Savigny's 200th Anniversary Trail
A walk where you scan QR codes to watch video capsules about the history of the village? Savigny has laid out a documented trail for its 200th anniversary, with 8 relay points. Be warned, it is a big 16.7 km loop: with children, it is better discovered section by section.
View listing
Étang du Gresaley in Savigny
Fancy a short walk that ends in a real discovery? North of Savigny, the Étang du Gresaley hides on the edge of the bois du Grand-Jorat. An observation deck lets you watch the water and the reeds, and a picnic table awaits the snack. Free, a few minutes from the car park.
View listing
Île Saint-Pierre: the boat crossing from La Neuveville
A whole island just for the day, how does that sound? From La Neuveville, a boat drops you on the Île Saint-Pierre, in the middle of Lake Biel: quiet beaches, picnic areas, a former priory and shaded paths. On Saturdays, children travel free.
View listing
Rossens dam: the 83-metre wall that created Lake Gruyère
How do you make a lake? In 1948, an 83-metre concrete wall blocked the Sarine and flooded a whole valley: Lake Gruyère was born. The Rossens dam is discovered from its surroundings, with an easy 2.3-kilometre walk along the water.
View listing
Rossens dam footbridge: 105 metres suspended above the lake
Fancy a short walk that leaves a long memory? Between the Rossens dam and Pont-la-Ville, a 105-metre metal footbridge runs ten metres above Lake Gruyère. Free, spectacular, and walked as a loop in less than an hour with the children.
View listing
The St-Jean bisse and the Puchotaz waterfall: a walk along the water
Fancy a cool walk along the water as a family? Starting from Grimentz, the St-Jean bisse leads to the lovely Puchotaz waterfall. An easy walk much loved by children, with a shelter equipped with games for a picnic at St-Jean.
View listingWhy choose a nature and animal outing with family?
Because it's the type of outing that grows with your children. Toddlers marvel at the animals at the Ferme de la Gavotte in Lancy or the Vivarium in Meyrin; older kids push their limits on the trails of Creux du Van or in the Gorges du Durnand in Bovernier.
It's also the category that offers the most generous free activities: nature reserves of Grangettes or Bois de Chênes, botanical gardens of Geneva and Neuchâtel, picnic spots, and themed trails like the Sentier des Toblerones in Prangins.
Finally, the nature of Romandy can be visited year-round: the Grottes de Vallorbe and the underground lake of St-Léonard keep you sheltered from the weather, while the Rochers-de-Naye or the Pro Natura Centre of Champ-Pittet change their appearance with the seasons. And if you're looking near you, each canton has its own selection.