La Côte as a family: what to do with children between Nyon and Rolle?

Between vineyards, castles and the shores of Lake Geneva, La Côte in the canton of Vaud is a wonderful playground for families. From Nyon to Rolle by way of Gland, Prangins and the villages at the foot of the Jura, here is plenty to fill your next weekends.

The region has a rare advantage: everything is close by. Twenty minutes by car or a few regional train stops take you from a castle to a beach, from a farm to a nature trail.

In Nyon, all the classics

A Roman town, a castle and the lakeshore: Nyon has the essentials in one place. The Musée du Léman and its aquariums, the Château de Nyon and the Trois-Jetées beach make a perfect trio for a first visit. Browse all the activities for children in Nyon.

In Gland, climbing and bowling

Gland has built a fine reputation with families thanks to Totem Escalade for climbing from age 4 and the bowling at Bowlingland for rainy afternoons. In summer, head for the La Falaise beach. See all the activities in Gland.

In Prangins, history and nature

The Château de Prangins – Musée national suisse offers children’s trails in a magnificent setting. Right next door, the sentier des Toblerones follows the Promenthouse river past the Second World War anti-tank blocks — a flat walk that fascinates children. And to round things off, the Promenthoux beach. See the activities in Prangins.

In Rolle, a castle and a playground at the water’s edge

The Château de Rolle can be admired from the quays, and its playground is one of the most beautifully located in the canton. In summer, the beach in Rolle completes the programme. See the activities in Rolle.

The castles of Nyon and Rolle are only a taste of what’s around: to keep going, have a look at our finest castles to visit as a family in French-speaking Switzerland.

In Aubonne, a big breath of nature

Set back a little from the lake, l’Arboretum du Vallon de l’Aubonne unfolds across nearly 200 hectares of forest and meadows, with more than 3,000 tree species, themed trails and nature workshops: ideal for a big green day out on La Côte.

In the villages, farms and alpine pastures

• Ranch Paradisio in Begnins: ponies and farm animals, from age 3.
• The NStCM train: the little red train that climbs from Nyon towards Saint-Cergue and La Cure — an excursion in itself.

Our practical tips

• The regional train serves Nyon, Gland and Rolle: handy for a car-free outing.
• In summer, head to the beaches early in the morning or late in the day; they get very busy in fine weather.
• Many of the region’s playgrounds are free to use: perfect for tight budgets.

Fancy exploring? All our activities in the canton of Vaud are sorted by age and by season. And to receive our ideas every week, join the Kidora newsletter.