Pédalino in Lausanne: pedal boats, kayaks, and SUP with family in Ouchy

A Fresh Interlude on Lake Geneva

Just steps away from Ouchy Park, Pédalino offers easy-going water sports for families. You start from the shore, pedal, paddle, laugh, and enjoy Lausanne from the lakeside. The atmosphere is relaxed, children observe the ducks, and you always keep the coast in sight.

What Your Children Will Love

• Climbing onto a pedal boat and becoming "captain" for a ride.
• Paddling in a double kayak or trying stand-up paddleboarding near the shore.
• Observing the harbor, sailboats, and swans while cooling off.
• Playing to spot fish in the clear water when the lake is calm.

It’s playful, sensory, and very tangible: you feel the water, the wind, the sun. The youngest develop their motor skills and confidence. The older ones learn to coordinate and follow simple navigation rules.

What to Expect On-Site

The activity is free and flexible. You choose your craft at the kiosk, pay for the desired duration (often in 30 or 60-minute increments), and set off for a leisurely loop along Ouchy. It’s a rather calm and active outing: you move without excessive effort and mainly enjoy the scenery.

• Recommended age: from 3 years on a pedal boat, accompanied by an adult. Kayak and SUP are generally from 8–10 years depending on comfort in the water.
• Duration: 30 to 60 minutes is enough for a nice discovery; extend if everyone wants more.
• Reservation: generally no reservation needed, first come, first served. In the height of summer, aim for the morning or late afternoon.
• Rates: hourly rental; payable at the kiosk. Bring cash or a card.
• Stroller and transport: the quay is flat and accessible with a stroller. Easy access via metro M2 (Ouchy-Olympique) or TL bus.
• Safety: life jackets available for children and adults. Stay close to the shore and follow the team’s instructions.
• Season: ideal from spring to the end of summer, in dry weather and without strong winds. Avoid windy days.
• Benefits: coordination, motor skills, confidence in the water, sense of direction, teamwork… and a big breath of fresh air.

Before You Go

Dress the children in comfortable clothing, and bring a swimsuit and towel if you like to dip your feet on the way back. A cap, sunscreen, glasses with a cord, and a small water bottle make a difference. Water sandals are handy for boarding and disembarking.

Parent Tips

• Arrive early when the weather is nice: less waiting and often calmer water.
• Ask for life jackets that fit the children's size and adjust them before boarding.
• Set a clear navigation area with the older ones and stay grouped.
• Bring a waterproof bag or pouches to protect your phone and keys.
• Pack a snack and take a break at Ouchy Park after the outing.

Useful Information

• Address: Place de la Navigation, 1006 Lausanne (Ouchy)
• Hours: seasonal, in good weather; generally from April/May to September, depending on conditions.
• Ideal weather: calm weather, light wind, no storms forecasted.
• Access: metro M2 stop Ouchy-Olympique; nearby parking (Parking d’Ouchy, Parking de la Navigation). Use public transport on summer weekends.
• Reservation: on-site, subject to availability.

If you have any doubts about opening on the day, stop by in the early afternoon to inquire directly at the kiosk.

Why We Recommend It

Because it’s a simple activity to organize, appealing to all ages, and gets children moving without pressure. You discover Lausanne from the water, learn to cooperate, and leave with rosy cheeks and light-hearted memories. It’s one of those ideas that turn a hot day into a shared good time.

Want a Breath of Lakeside Air?

Pédalino in Ouchy offers an active and refreshing break, perfect for families. For more tested and approved ideas in French-speaking Switzerland, create your Kidora account or subscribe to the newsletter.