Attractions and Places To See around Forêt de Sauvabelin - Top 5
Best attractions and places to see around Forêt de Sauvabelin include a diverse range of natural features and cultural sites. This 80-hectare forest, located in the hills above Lausanne, Switzerland, serves as an urban oasis. It offers numerous woodland paths and notable landmarks, providing a serene escape for nature enthusiasts and families. The area blends natural beauty with historical and recreational points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Forêt de Sauvabelin
- The most popular attractions is Sauvabelin Tower, a man-made monument that offers panoramic views. This 35-meter-high wooden tower provides a 360-degree view of Lausanne, Lake Geneva, and the surrounding mountains.
- Another must-see spot is Fondation de l’Hermitage and Park, a historical site. This 19th-century estate houses a museum with alternating art exhibitions, including works by Impressionist artists, and hosts concerts and workshops.
- Visitors also love Stone steps and bridge on forest trail, a trail that provides access to the woodland paths. This feature offers a pleasant route through the forest, ideal for walking and exploring.
- Forêt de Sauvabelin is known for its natural features, cultural sites, and recreational areas. The area offers a variety of attractions, including the artificial Lac de Sauvabelin, the Réserve des Vieux Chênes, and the Parc de Sauvabelin with its animal park.
- The attractions around Forêt de Sauvabelin are appreciated by the komoot community, with 3 highlights receiving 38 upvotes and featuring 40 photos.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
Sauvabelin Tower
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Fondation de l’Hermitage and Park
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The second life of this beautiful 19th-century estate, donated by the Bugnion family to the city of Lausanne, began in June 1984. Its four floors offer visitors the attractive atmosphere of a private setting.
François Daulte, art historian and renowned publisher, was the first director of this institution and very quickly gave the Fondation a far-reaching reputation. At the Hermitage the impressionists Bonnard, Boudin and Magritte are at home.
From 1996 to 2011, Juliane Cosandier directed the museum and organized alternating exhibitions, monographs (Brauner, Jawlensky, Fantin-Latour, Hopper) and collections (Weinberg, Planque, Hahnloser) as well as exhibitions on special topics (pointillism, futurism, English watercolors, Scandinavian painting, Spanish painting).
Since August 2011 Sylvie Wuhrmann took over the reins of the museum to lead it to new successes in the exciting and varied fields from the 18th century to modern art.
Other buildings of the estate
A modern glass pavilion, which is attached to the mansion, serves as a reception room and bookstore. With an extension building in the basement, the exhibition space has been enlarged, and it provides a link to the farmhouse's farmhouse, where concerts, lectures and workshops for children are organized. The small "red brick workshop", the former dovecote and the orangery in the style of the time have been converted into a charming café-restaurant.
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Stone steps and bridge on forest trail
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Parc de la Sallaz
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Tips from the Community
The tower is very specially constructed. Is definitely worth seeing!
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An elegantly designed wooden bridge allows you to comfortably get from Place de la Sallaz across the street into the city forest.
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A lookout tower built entirely of wood with separate ascent and descent (corona-compliant 😉). Phenomenal view, highly recommended when the weather is clear!
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In the 19th century the villa 'L’Hermitage ’was owned by a banker, whose family donated the house to the city in 1976. A foundation was set up to restore, preserve and make known the building. It should hold two to three art exhibitions a year, which began in 1984. Since then, over two million visitors have visited around 80 exhibitions and around 1000 objects of art have been collected, around 400 of which can be seen in a permanent exhibition. https://www.fondation-hermitage.ch Occasionally, objects are also exhibited in the park that surrounds the villa.
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Nice vantage point that can also be visited when it rains. Access to the tower is free. In very bad weather, however, the entrance can be closed.
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On the left in the trees, nice little access, which leads to trunks, then a slight climb that arrives on a donkey's back (very warm) and its roots (so fast, with a jump).
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Forêt de Sauvabelin?
The Forêt de Sauvabelin is an 80-hectare urban oasis with numerous woodland paths. You can also visit the picturesque artificial Lac de Sauvabelin, home to ducks, geese, and swans. Don't miss the Réserve des Vieux Chênes, a natural reserve within the forest with venerable oak trees, some over three centuries old.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near Forêt de Sauvabelin?
Yes, the Fondation de l’Hermitage and Park is a notable cultural site. This 19th-century estate houses a museum with alternating art exhibitions, including works by Impressionist artists, and hosts concerts and workshops. You can find more information about their exhibitions at fondation-hermitage.ch.
What are the best viewpoints in the Forêt de Sauvabelin area?
The Sauvabelin Tower offers a spectacular 360-degree panoramic view of Lausanne, Lake Léman, and the surrounding mountains and countryside. Another excellent spot is the Signal de Sauvabelin, which provides extensive views over the city of Lausanne.
Are there family-friendly activities available in Forêt de Sauvabelin?
Absolutely. The Parc de Sauvabelin is a beloved destination for families, featuring an animal park where children can observe farm and forest animals like pigs, cows, goats, and peacocks. There are also large shaded play areas near the lake and a smaller play area with picnic tables at Signal de Sauvabelin.
How can I access Forêt de Sauvabelin by public transport?
The Forêt de Sauvabelin is easily accessible from the city center of Lausanne. Public transport options are available to reach the area, making it convenient for visitors without a car. For specific routes and schedules, it's best to consult local public transport information.
Is there parking available at Forêt de Sauvabelin?
Yes, parking facilities are available around the Forêt de Sauvabelin, making it convenient for those traveling by car. Look for designated parking areas near the main attractions like the Sauvabelin Tower or the Parc de Sauvabelin.
What is the best time of year to visit Forêt de Sauvabelin?
Forêt de Sauvabelin is beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant foliage, ideal for walking. Summer is great for enjoying the lake and animal park, while winter can transform the forest into a serene, snowy landscape, though some paths might be less accessible.
Are there places to eat or drink near the attractions?
Yes, the Auberge de Sauvabelin, also known as La Pinte du Lac, is situated by the Lac de Sauvabelin and offers local and regional cuisine, including cheese dishes. Additionally, there are charming café-restaurants, such as one located in the former dovecote and orangery of the Fondation de l'Hermitage estate.
What kind of hiking trails can I find around Forêt de Sauvabelin?
The area offers a variety of hiking trails, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. For example, you can enjoy the 'View from the Signal de Sauvabelin – Sauvabelin Tower loop from Lausanne' which is an easy route, or explore moderate options like the 'Flon River Waterfalls – Descent of the Flon Trail loop'. You can find more hiking options in the Hiking around Forêt de Sauvabelin guide.
Can I go cycling around Forêt de Sauvabelin?
Yes, the region around Forêt de Sauvabelin is suitable for cycling. You can find various road cycling routes, such as the 'Lavaux Vineyards loop from Sallaz', or explore mountain biking trails like the 'Mauverney Sports Center – Forest singletrack loop'. Discover more routes in the Road Cycling Routes around Forêt de Sauvabelin guide and the MTB Trails around Forêt de Sauvabelin guide.
Are the trails in Forêt de Sauvabelin suitable for dogs?
Many of the woodland paths and trails within Forêt de Sauvabelin are dog-friendly, making it a great place to walk with your canine companion. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near the animal park.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible paths in Forêt de Sauvabelin?
While many forest paths might be uneven, some areas within the Parc de Sauvabelin and around the Lac de Sauvabelin offer more accessible routes. It's recommended to check specific trail conditions or contact Lausanne Tourism for detailed information on wheelchair-friendly paths.
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