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.
A nature reserve by the water
In a clearing of the Bois de Sépey, south of the Cossonay-L'Isle road, the Étang du Sépey nature reserve protects two ponds and their surroundings, managed by Pro Natura Vaud. It's one of the most important amphibian breeding sites in Switzerland: common frogs, toads and newts number in the thousands, alongside more than a hundred bird species. You follow nature trails, free of charge, to observe the life of the pond, especially in spring.
What your children will discover
Along the trails, children watch for frogs and newts at the water's edge, listen to the birdsong and observe the discreet life of the pond. In spring, the amphibian breeding season is especially lively. It's a fine open-air nature lesson, teaching them to observe and respect animals and their habitat.
What you do and the atmosphere on site
You stroll quietly along the paths, stop by the ponds to observe, and enjoy the calm of the place. A few rules apply (stay on the paths, dogs on a lead, don't pick anything, no fires) to preserve the reserve. A nearby Vita fitness trail lets you extend the outing in the open air.
Before you go
- Recommended age: as a family from age 3-4 (an easy walk)
- Price: free (nature reserve)
- To respect: stay on the paths, dogs on a lead, don't pick anything, no fires
- What to bring: walking shoes; binoculars for the birds
- Getting there: clearing of the Bois de Sépey, along the Cossonay-L'Isle road
- Best season: spring (amphibians), until autumn
Parents' tips
- Spring is the best season to observe frogs and newts.
- Stay on the paths and keep quiet so as not to disturb the wildlife.
- Binoculars help to spot the birds.
- Combine it with the nearby Vita fitness trail.
- Keep an eye on the youngest at the water's edge.
Useful information
- Location: Étang du Sépey reserve, Bois de Sépey, 1304 Cossonay
- Managed by: Pro Natura Vaud
- Price: free
- Getting there: along the Cossonay-L'Isle road
- Best season: from spring to autumn
Why we recommend it
Because it's a free and soothing nature outing: observing frogs, newts and birds by a protected pond, on easy trails. A lovely way to awaken children to nature, especially in spring, near Cossonay.
In a nutshell
A nature reserve with two ponds near Cossonay, rich in frogs, newts and birds — an easy, free nature walk, especially in spring.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Étang du Sépey?
What can you observe?
Is it free?
What is the best season?
What rules should you respect?
Is it suitable for young children?
Where is the reserve?
Michael @ Kidora
Kid Adventure Planner
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