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Family Friendly Winter Walking Paths in Lausanne

January 3, 2026
By Editor
Family Friendly Winter Walking Paths in Lausanne

Top Family Friendly Winter Walking Paths in Lausanne

Lausanne is a winter wonderland for active families. You will find many family friendly winter walking paths in Lausanne during 2026. These trails offer safe and scenic routes for all ages. Start your Swiss adventure with these easy walks today.

Stroll Along the Ouchy Lakefront Promenade

For practical details and last-minute changes, use Lausanne travel info.

For official information, visit Lausanne travel info.

The lakefront promenade walk in Ouchy is a top choice. This flat path runs directly along the beautiful Lake Geneva. It is perfect for families using strollers or small scooters. You can enjoy clear views of the snowy French Alps.

The path is very wide and stays clear of heavy snow. You will pass several playgrounds where children can play safely. The walk from the port to the Olympic Museum takes 20 minutes. It is a relaxing way to spend a sunny winter afternoon.

Stop at a local kiosk for a warm Swiss hot chocolate. Prices for drinks usually range from 5 to 7 CHF. You can watch the large CGN ferries dock at the harbor. This area is very easy to reach using the M2 metro line.

The Olympic Museum gardens offer extra paths to explore. These gardens feature interesting statues and manicured winter lawns. Entry to the outdoor gardens is free for everyone. It is a great spot for family photos in 2026.

Explore the Easy Forest Trails in Sauvabelin

Head to the heights of the city for a nature escape. The easy forest trails in Sauvabelin are magical in winter. Tall trees protect your family from the cold winter wind. The paths are wide and very easy to navigate.

Children will love the free animal park located near the lake. You can see goats, woolly pigs, and deer in their enclosures. The park is open every day during the winter season. It provides a fun and educational break during your walk.

The wooden Sauvabelin Tower is a highlight of this route. Climbing the 151 steps offers a 360-degree view of the region. The tower is 35 meters high and free to enter. It is an exciting challenge for older children to conquer.

You can reach the forest easily by taking bus line 16. The bus stops right at the entrance of the park area. Most trails here take between 30 and 60 minutes to complete. It is a perfect morning activity for active families.

Discover the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces in Winter

The winter walks in Lavaux offer incredible scenery. These vineyards are a famous UNESCO World Heritage site. The paved paths are ideal for walking even when it is wet. You will see rows of vines resting under the snow.

Start your walk in the charming village of Cully. Follow the yellow signs that lead toward the town of Lutry. This route stays mostly flat and follows the lake shore. The entire walk takes about one hour at a slow pace.

The train ride from Lausanne to Cully takes only ten minutes. Tickets are affordable and the trains run very frequently. You will enjoy the view of the lake from the train window. It is a convenient trip for families staying in the city.

The winter air in the vineyards is very fresh and clean. You will find many benches to sit and enjoy the silence. Make sure to wear warm layers as the wind can be cold. This path is one of the most scenic in Switzerland.

Walk Through Mon-Repos Park and City Center

Mon-Repos Park is a peaceful green space in the city center. It features wide paths that are safe for toddlers to run. The park houses a historic villa and a beautiful orangery. It is a great place for a short winter stroll.

In late 2026, the park often features festive winter decorations. You can easily walk from here to the main shopping streets. The paths are well-lit and salted to prevent any slipping. It is a very safe environment for young children.

The park is close to the Lausanne Lumières light festival locations. You can see giant light art installations during the evening hours. This adds a sense of magic to your family walk. The festival is free and very popular with locals.

There is a large playground located near the park entrance. Kids can burn off energy while parents enjoy a coffee nearby. Many cafes in this area offer child-friendly menus and high chairs. It is a convenient stop during a day of sightseeing.

Adventure Through the Bois-de-l'Hermitage

The Bois-de-l'Hermitage offers a rustic forest experience near the center. This area is famous for its views of the Lausanne Cathedral. The trails are clearly marked with official winter hiking signs. It feels like a mountain hike but stays very safe.

You can visit the Fondation de l'Hermitage museum during your walk. The museum grounds are beautiful and open to the public. You will find tall cedar trees and large open lawns. It is a quiet spot away from the city noise.

The paths can be a bit steeper than the lakefront promenade. However, they are still manageable for school-aged children. Wear sturdy shoes to help with grip on the forest floor. The fresh forest air is very refreshing in January.

This walk provides a great perspective of the city layout. You can see the lake and the mountains from several viewpoints. It is a favorite spot for local families on the weekend. The trail ends near the signal de Sauvabelin area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the walking paths in Lausanne stroller friendly in winter?

Yes, many paths like the Ouchy promenade and Mon-Repos are stroller friendly. These routes are paved and cleared of snow regularly. Forest paths in Sauvabelin are also wide enough for most strollers. Always check for ice during very cold mornings in 2026.

Do I need special hiking boots for these Lausanne winter walks?

You do not need professional hiking boots for paved city and lakeside paths. However, warm waterproof shoes with good grip are highly recommended. If you plan to walk in the Sauvabelin forest, sturdy boots will help on uneven ground. Keep your feet dry to stay warm.

Is there a cost to access these family friendly paths?

No, all the walking paths mentioned in this guide are free to access. You only need to pay for public transport to reach them. The animal park in Sauvabelin and the Olympic Museum gardens are also free. This makes walking a very budget-friendly family activity.

Lausanne offers wonderful family friendly winter walking paths in Lausanne for your 2026 trip. From lakeside strolls to forest adventures, there is something for everyone. Grab your warm coats and start exploring these beautiful Swiss trails today. Visit Lausanne Tourisme for more local updates.

Official resources

Use these sources for official schedules, tickets, routes, and updates.