Relaxing Picnic Areas in Sauvabelin Forest Lausanne
Are you looking for the best picnic areas in Sauvabelin forest Lausanne for your next outdoor adventure? This lush green forest offers a perfect escape from the busy city streets of Lausanne. You can enjoy a quiet lunch while exploring the many Sauvabelin forest walking trails Lausanne has to offer. The area is ideal for families, couples, and nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.
Scenic Picnic Spots Near Lake Sauvabelin
Lake Sauvabelin is the heart of this beautiful forest and offers a very peaceful setting. You will find several sturdy wooden tables placed right along the edge of the water. These spots are very popular because they offer great views of the resident ducks and swans. It is best to arrive early on weekends to secure a table near the shore.
The lake area is perfect for those who enjoy a short stroll before their midday meal. You can easily follow the Sauvabelin lake walking loop for kids to work up an appetite. This path is flat and very easy for children to navigate safely on their own. Most tables in this section are free to use for all visitors throughout the year.
If the tables are full, there are many grassy areas where you can spread a blanket. These open spaces provide plenty of room for children to play while the adults relax. You should bring your own trash bags to help keep the lake environment clean. The local authorities maintain this area well to ensure a pleasant experience for every visitor.
Nearby facilities include a small restaurant where you can buy drinks or snacks if needed. Public restrooms are also located within a short walking distance from the main lakeside picnic zone. This convenience makes the lake one of the most practical spots for a long afternoon stay. Enjoy the gentle breeze coming off the water while you eat your Swiss cheese.
Picnic Areas in Sauvabelin Forest Lausanne
The area surrounding the Sauvabelin Tower offers some of the most unique picnic areas in Sauvabelin forest Lausanne. This impressive wooden structure stands thirty-five meters tall and provides a landmark for your meeting point. You can find several shaded spots tucked away under the canopy of ancient oak trees. These locations stay remarkably cool even during the peak of the warm summer months.
Eating near the tower allows you to combine your lunch with a climb for amazing views. The tower entrance is free and offers a panoramic look at Lake Geneva and the Alps. After your climb, you can sit at the nearby tables to rest your tired legs. These spots are usually quieter than the ones found directly next to the busy lake.
The ground here is covered in soft leaves and provides a natural feel for your picnic. You will notice that many local residents choose this spot for a quick lunch break. The atmosphere is very calm and allows you to hear the birds singing in the trees. It is a great place to enjoy the deep silence of the Swiss woods.
Most of these sites do not require any prior booking or payment for public use. You should check the local weather forecast before you head out for the entire day. While the trees provide shade, they do not offer much protection from heavy rain showers. Plan to visit during a clear day to get the most from the experience.
Family Picnic Sites Near the Animal Park
Families with children will love the picnic sites located near the Sauvabelin animal park during their visit. This park is home to several local Swiss breeds including goats, pigs, and woolly sheep. You can set up your picnic lunch just a few steps away from the animal enclosures. Children can watch the animals play while they eat their sandwiches and healthy snacks.
The terrain in this specific part of the forest is mostly flat and very accessible. This makes it an excellent choice for parents who are pushing strollers or carrying heavy bags. You will find several benches scattered around the park for those who prefer not to sit. The proximity to the animals keeps children entertained for a very long time.
Educational signs are posted around the park to teach visitors about the different animal species. This adds a fun learning element to your family picnic outing in the forest. The animal park is open every day and does not charge an entrance fee to visitors. It is one of the most budget-friendly activities available in the city of Lausanne.
Please remember that you should never feed the animals your own picnic food or snacks. The animals have a strict diet provided by the professional caretakers who work there daily. Keep your food securely packed away to avoid attracting any unwanted attention from the curious goats. This ensures both the animals and your family stay safe and healthy during lunch.
Forest Shelters and Grilling Facilities
💡 Pro Tip: Book your Lausanne adventures in advance through Viator for the best deals!
For those who enjoy a hot meal, the forest provides several excellent public grilling stations. These stations often feature large stone pits where you can safely build a small fire. You must bring your own charcoal or wood to use for cooking your meal. There are often wooden logs nearby, but they may be damp during the winter months.
Finding parking near Sauvabelin forest walking trails is important if you are carrying heavy grilling equipment. Most parking lots are located within a ten-minute walk of the main forest grilling areas. Make sure to use the designated pits to prevent any risk of forest fires starting. Always extinguish your fire completely before you leave the area at the end of the day.
Several covered shelters are also available for groups who want to picnic regardless of the weather. These rustic wooden structures provide a roof and long tables for larger families or friends. They are perfect for hosting a small birthday celebration or a casual weekend gathering. These shelters are very popular and are often occupied during the busy holiday seasons.
The forest staff works hard to keep these grilling zones clean and ready for use. You can find trash bins located near every major picnic shelter for your convenience. Please respect the natural environment by removing all of your plastic waste and leftover food. This helps protect the local wildlife that calls this beautiful Swiss forest their home.
Best Seasons for Picnics in 2026
Planning your visit in 2026 requires looking at the changing seasons of the Swiss plateau. Spring is a wonderful time to visit when the forest floor is covered in green. The temperatures are mild and the air feels very fresh after the long winter months. You will see many flowers blooming along the edges of the forest walking paths.
Summer is the most popular time for a picnic due to the long daylight hours. You can stay in the forest until late in the evening during June and July. The thick canopy of trees provides a natural umbrella against the strong midday sun. It is the perfect time to enjoy a cold drink by the lake shore.
Autumn brings a spectacular display of colors to the Sauvabelin forest for all to see. The orange and yellow leaves create a beautiful backdrop for your outdoor dining experience. The air becomes crisp, making a hot grilled meal even more enjoyable for your group. Many photographers visit during this time to capture the stunning natural beauty of Lausanne.
Winter is much quieter but still offers a unique charm for the very brave visitors. You can enjoy a thermos of hot tea while looking out over the frozen lake. While the tables may be cold, the peace and quiet are truly unmatched during this season. Always dress in warm layers to stay comfortable while you explore the snowy woods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there public toilets near the picnic areas in Sauvabelin forest?
Yes, there are several public restrooms located near the lake and the animal park. These facilities are generally well-maintained and free for all visitors to use. You can find them easily by following the signs posted along the main walking paths.
Can I reserve a picnic table in Sauvabelin forest Lausanne?
Most picnic tables in the forest are available on a first-come, first-served basis for the public. However, some large covered shelters may require a reservation through the Lausanne city authorities. It is best to check the official city website for group booking details.
Is it allowed to start a fire for a BBQ in the forest?
You are only allowed to start fires in the designated stone grilling pits provided by the park. Using portable grills on the grass or forest floor is strictly prohibited for safety reasons. Always ensure your fire is fully out before you leave the picnic site.
Is there an entrance fee for Sauvabelin forest or the animal park?
No, there is no entrance fee to enter the Sauvabelin forest or the animal park. Both are public spaces that are free for everyone to enjoy throughout the year. This makes it a very affordable destination for a day out in Lausanne.
Sauvabelin forest is a true gem for anyone looking to enjoy a meal in nature. With its scenic lake, tall tower, and friendly animals, it offers something for every visitor. Plan your trip to the picnic areas in Sauvabelin forest Lausanne today for a memorable 2026 experience. Don't forget to pack your favorite Swiss treats and enjoy the fresh forest air!