Foundation of the Hermitage in Lausanne: art museum and garden

An Art and Nature Interlude in Lausanne

Above Lausanne, the Fondation de l’Hermitage brings together a renowned art museum and a peaceful garden with views of Lake Geneva and the Alps. The setting is elegant yet welcoming, perfect for an outing where you can relax, observe, discuss, and stroll. The temporary exhibitions are often very visual, making it easier to visit with curious children.

What Your Children Will Discover

Inside, you walk through beautiful, bright rooms showcasing paintings, drawings, or sculptures depending on the programming. Children quickly spot the colors, characters, and landscapes. You can have fun searching for details, inventing stories, and comparing styles. It’s a calm and contemplative visit, but rich in small discoveries.

Outside, the Hermitage park invites you to get some fresh air. The tall trees, birds, gentle slopes, and unobstructed views create a relaxing atmosphere. After the museum, a walk in the garden gently extends the experience. The on-site café-restaurant also allows for a tasty break.

Before You Go

• Recommended age: from 4 years for a short and gentle visit; ideal from 6 to 12 years for discussing the works and observing details. Teens also find it engaging depending on the exhibition.
• Duration: 60 to 90 minutes in the museum, then 30 to 60 minutes in the garden and at the café. Plan for a leisurely pace with breaks.
• Type of activity: rather calm and educational, with a sensory dimension (colors, light, textures) and plenty of material to awaken curiosity and vocabulary.
• Reservations and pricing: paid entry; tickets available on-site or online. Major exhibitions can attract crowds on weekends; booking avoids waiting. Family rates and discounts: see the official website.
• Accessibility and strollers: the museum is accessible and equipped; strollers are allowed (elevator), but a baby carrier may be convenient for wandering in certain rooms. In the park, the paths are mostly navigable, with some slopes.
• Public transport: very convenient from Lausanne. The bus stop is nearby. By car, parking is possible but limited during peak hours.
• What to bring: comfortable shoes for the park, a small water bottle, diapers/wipes if needed. In summer, a hat and sunscreen for the outdoor stroll. In winter, warm clothing to enjoy the view.
• Safety: calm and well-maintained spaces; just keep an eye on children near the artworks (do not touch) and on the slopes of the park.
• Season: interesting year-round. The garden is beautiful from spring to autumn; in winter, enjoy the calm of the rooms and the light on the lake.
• Benefits: enriches language and visual culture, encourages observation, discussion, and imagination. The garden complements with a true moment of relaxation and gentle motor skills.

Parent Tips

• Arrive early in the morning for a more serene visit.
• Play mini-games: “find an animal,” “which color dominates,” “what story do you imagine.”
• Alternate 15 minutes of observation with 5 minutes of walking to maintain attention.
• Keep a small notebook and pencil to draw a favorite artwork after the visit.
• In case of rain, have a plan B for a snack at the café; in good weather, enjoy the park before heading home.

Useful Information

• Address: Route du Signal 2, 1018 Lausanne
• Official website: https://www.fondation-hermitage.ch
• Contact: [email protected] | +41 21 320 50 01
• Hours: generally Tuesday–Sunday 10:00–18:00 (Thursday often until 20:00), closed Monday. Check the hours related to exhibitions.
• Ideal weather: all conditions (indoor museum); garden particularly pleasant in spring and summer.
• Access: by public transport (stop nearby); by car, limited spaces during peak hours. Prefer public transport on weekends.

Why We Recommend It

Because the Hermitage combines the essentials: beautiful accessible exhibitions, a green setting to breathe, and a welcoming atmosphere even with young children. It’s an outing that encourages talking, observing, and taking your time, without pressure.

Want to Try the Experience?

If you’re looking for a gentle cultural activity, easy to organize and suitable for the whole family, the Fondation de l’Hermitage is a sure bet in Lausanne. For more ideas close to home, create a Kidora account or subscribe to our newsletter.