Domaine Le Baribois in Gland – educational farm and birthdays

A farm that brings families together

Just a stone's throw from Lake Geneva, Domaine Le Baribois offers a nature break for children and their parents. Here, we slow down. We observe, we touch, we feed, and we ask a thousand questions. The atmosphere is friendly, the contact with the animals is respectful, and the team is used to guiding little curious ones. It is also a popular place to blow out candles amidst bales of hay.

What your children will discover

Chickens, goats, rabbits, maybe sheep or donkeys depending on the season: children get to know the farm animals and their needs. They learn to approach calmly, to listen, to smell the hay, and to recognize sounds. Small workshops may be offered (feeding, brushing, sowing, or nature crafts) that stimulate fine motor skills and curiosity. For a birthday, the activities are fun and lively, with a moment for snacks and candles.

Ages, duration, and pace on site

The activity is suitable from 2 years old with an adult, and up to 10–12 years old to fully enjoy the explanations and workshops. Expect 1 to 2 hours for a visit or workshop, and about 2 to 3 hours for a birthday package (welcome, activities, snacks, breaks). The atmosphere is calm and sensory, with more dynamic moments during animal care.

Booking, prices, and safety

Guided tours and birthdays are generally by reservation, especially on Wednesdays, weekends, and during holidays. A fee is requested (price varies depending on the activity and group size). The setting is designed for families: marked areas, clear instructions before entering the enclosures, hand sanitizer, and guidance by a facilitator. Explain the simple rules to the children: do not run, stay together, and extend a flat hand to feed.

Access, strollers, and weather

The farm can be visited in all mild weather. Spring, summer, and autumn are perfect for enjoying the outdoors; in case of rain, bring boots and waterproof clothing. The paths are dirt or gravel: an all-terrain stroller works better. Public transport access is from Gland train station with a regional bus followed by a short walk (check the route for the day). By car, the Gland highway exit is nearby, with parking usually available close by.

What to bring

• Clothes that don't mind dust and boots or closed sneakers
• Cap and sunscreen in summer, windbreaker in mid-season
• A small water bottle and a simple snack (according to the venue's rules for birthdays)
• Wipes and hand sanitizer after contact with animals
• A bag to take home gifts/artworks from the workshops

Parents' tips

• Arrive 10 minutes early for a quiet briefing with the team.
• Explain to the children before the visit how to approach an animal.
• Bring a change of clothes if the ground is wet.
• For a birthday, ask for the list of provided materials (candles, dishes, decorations) and what you can bring.
• Keep your phone ready for photos… but also enjoy the moment.

Useful information

• Address: Gland (VD). Exact coordinates are provided upon reservation.
• Official site/contact: check the Domaine Le Baribois website or social media for up-to-date information and reservations.
• Hours: often on Wednesdays, weekends, and holidays; by request for groups and birthdays.
• Ideal weather: dry weather or light drizzle; avoid the heat of mid-afternoon in summer.
• Access: car (Gland highway exit), parking nearby; public transport via Gland train station then regional bus.

Why we recommend it

Because there is a genuine desire to pass on: respect for living things, patience, observation. The activities are hands-on, and children truly participate. It’s an outing that benefits both body and mind, developing motor skills, confidence, and curiosity. And for a birthday, the countryside setting creates simple and lasting memories.

In two words

A human-sized educational farm, ideal for breathing, learning, and celebrating. If this discovery resonates with you, create your Kidora account or subscribe to our newsletter to find other great ideas in French-speaking Switzerland.