Scenic Lake Loop Trails for Autumn

For the most up-to-date details, check Lausanne Tourisme before you go.

To plan your trip, review The Olympic Museum.

Check out the Sauvabelin lake walking loop for kids for more details. It offers flat terrain and plenty of benches. Bring your camera to capture the vibrant autumn colors. The light is best during the late afternoon hours.

Wooden bridges cross small streams along the circular path. Ducks often swim near the shore during the autumn months. You will find several spots for quiet reflection here. It is one of the most scenic spots in Lausanne.

• Distance: 1.2 kilometers
• Difficulty: Very Easy
• Time: 20-30 minutes

Climbing the Sauvabelin Tower in Fall

The wooden tower offers panoramic views of the entire region. It stands thirty-five meters tall above the forest floor. You must climb 151 steps to reach the top. The structure is made entirely of local Douglas fir wood.

From the top, you see the Alps and Lake Geneva. The autumn foliage creates a sea of orange below you. Entry to the tower is free for all visitors. It remains open daily during the daylight hours in 2026.

Look for the forest trails near Sauvabelin tower Lausanne to extend your walk. These paths wind through thick groves of ancient trees. The air smells of pine and damp autumn leaves. It is a refreshing escape from the city center.

The tower can sway slightly in the autumn wind. This is a normal feature of its wooden design. Wear comfortable shoes to handle the spiral staircase safely. The view is worth every single step you take.

The Animal Park and Nature Paths

The animal park is a highlight for nature lovers. You can see rare local breeds of farm animals here. These include woolly pigs and goats with twisted horns. The park focuses on preserving traditional Swiss heritage breeds.

Walking through the park is free for everyone to enjoy. It is located just a few steps from the lake. The animals are very active during the cooler autumn mornings. You should follow the how to find Sauvabelin animal park guide for directions.

Please remember not to feed the animals during your visit. Signs explain the diet and history of each specific breed. The paths are wide and easy to navigate with strollers. It adds a unique charm to your forest walk.

Explore the deeper woods beyond the fenced animal areas. These trails are less crowded than the main lake loop. You might spot local squirrels gathering nuts for the winter. The forest floor is covered in a thick leaf carpet.

Practical Tips for Your 2026 Visit

Plan your visit for a weekday to avoid large crowds. Weekends can get busy with local families and joggers. The forest is easily reachable by bus from Lausanne Gare. Take line 16 and get off at the forest stop.

Wear sturdy shoes for the Sauvabelin forest walking trails Lausanne today. Some paths can become slippery after the autumn rain. Bring a light jacket as the forest stays quite cool. The temperature drops quickly once the sun sets behind hills.

There are several public restrooms located near the main entrance. You will also find a cozy restaurant near the lake. It serves hot chocolate and local Swiss seasonal dishes. Check their website for specific opening hours in 2026.

Parking is available but limited near the main park entrance. It is better to use the efficient public transport system. This helps protect the natural environment of the forest. Always carry a small map of the trail system.