Picnic area of La Crosette

A Break in the Middle of the Toblerones

In Begnins, on the Toblerone Trail, the Crosette picnic area is a stop that we love to recommend to families out for a walk. Set in the heart of the forest, it offers tables, grills, and benches, with the added bonus of a view of the famous Toblerones, those anti-tank concrete blocks lined up that wind through the landscape of La Côte. A nature break with a unique backdrop.

Free and well-placed at the intersection of the trail, it is the ideal stop to regain strength: you drop your bag, light the grill, and let the kids explore the surroundings before heading back out to walk. The kind of place that transforms a simple stroll into a real relaxing outing.

What Your Children Will Discover

The big advantage of the place is the nearby Toblerones: these World War II fortifications always intrigue children. You can simply explain to them what these concrete blocks were used for, turning the discovery into a little open-air history lesson.

Surrounding it is the La Côte forest, ready for exploration: trees, underbrush, hidden corners to discover. The children have space to play, observe, and move around, while the parents prepare the meal on the grill. Nature and history coexist effortlessly.

What to Do There and the Atmosphere on Site

You can picnic or grill a friendly meal, seated at the tables and benches in the heart of the forest. The atmosphere is relaxed and warm, typical of the Toblerone Trail stops. It’s a natural meeting point for walkers and local families.

Located at the intersection of the trail, the Crosette is perfectly suited for a mid-course stop: you arrive, refresh, take a breather, and then continue your walk along the fortifications. A simple and pleasant logistics to pace the day.

Before You Go

• Recommended Age: all ages, from babies to teenagers. The area is well-suited for families.
• Duration: the time for a meal or a break, to combine with a portion of the Toblerone Trail.
• Price: free. It is a picnic area with open access, featuring grills and benches.
• Stroller Accessibility: the area is more accessible than a trail, but the terrain remains forested and natural. Check locally depending on your stroller.
• Transport: Begnins is in the Nyon district. Accessible by car; from Nyon (CFF line), plan for a regional connection, then a short walk on the trail.
• What to Bring: picnic or something to grill, water, and appropriate clothing depending on the weather. Check on-site the rules for using grills and fires.
• Ideal Season: from spring to autumn, when it’s nice to eat and walk outside.

Parents' Tips

• Make it a mid-way stop on the Toblerone Trail: the walk gains a real highlight.
• Take advantage of the grills for a warm, friendly meal; remember to bring something to light the fire and check local rules.
• Tell the children the story of the Toblerones; these concrete blocks always intrigue them.
• Arrive early on nice weekends to secure a free table.
• Take your waste with you and ensure the fire is completely out before leaving.

Useful Information

• Address: Begnins, on the Toblerone Trail (Nyon district, Vaud canton).
• Hours: picnic area in nature, accessible freely. Adjust your visit according to the season and conditions.
• Access: by car to Begnins and then a short walk on the trail; from Nyon (CFF line), regional connection recommended.

Why We Recommend It

Because it brings together everything we look for in a family stop: tables, grills, forest, and a unique backdrop with the Toblerones just steps away. Free and located at the intersection of the trail, it transforms a historical walk into a true relaxing day, between a friendly meal and discovering the heritage of La Côte.

In Two Words

A free picnic area with tables, grills, and benches in the forest at Begnins, at the intersection of the Toblerone Trail and with a view of the fortifications. The ideal stop along the way.