Nestled in the Lake Geneva Region, the Parc Jura Vaudois enchants hikers, bikers, and outdoor adventurers of every stripe. This stunning regional park features 523 kilometers (324.97 miles) of winding trails that cut through thickly wooded emerald green pastures and occasional stonewalls. Extending from the Col de la Givrine, to the Col du Molledruz, hikers in the park will encounter mesmerizing landscapes that range from the shimmer of Lake Geneva, to the pristine alpine beauty of the Alps.
Deep in the recesses of the Sauvabelin forest lies a modern, wood-built tower which affords a breathtaking view of the rolling Jura Mountains and glistening Lake Léman. Measuring 35 meters (115 feet), the distinctive tower takes its name from the surrounding forest. Although it serves a spectacular purpose, the structure itself is eye-catching, and its spiral staircase was inspired by the helical architecture found at the Chateau de Chambord in France. Fashioned out of Douglas firs sourced from local forests, this tower and its supporting institutions are greatly inclined towards sustainable development and environmental consciousness, and strive to radiate the same principles to visitors.
Located on the outskirts of Mollens, the Mont Tendre mountain is a popular hiking spot among tourists for its easy trails. With a height of 1679 meters (5509 feet), the mountain summit provides stunning views of the Swiss countryside.
Sauvabelin Forest is a suburban park where Lausanne locals have come for Sunday strolls and afternoon walks in a soothing natural setting for more than a century. Walks lead past the River Flon, the picturesque Bois de Sauvabelin, and the ruins of a former Swiss village. The true highlights of the forest are the Lac du Sauvabelin, an artificial lake built in the late 19th century, and the Sauvebelin Tower, an interesting wooden structure nine stories tall with beautiful views of the surrounding region. Visitors often take picnics on landscaped grounds, row boats on the lake in the warmer months, and take children to see Swiss-native farm animals. Legend has it that the late and great David Bowie owned a home on the forest grounds.
Formed from the remnants of an ancient glacial lake, Lake Neuchâtel is located in the French-speaking region of Romandy in western Switzerland. Delightfully skirted by lush forests and rolling hills, this clear lake is one of Switzerland's most prized possessions. It has a surface area of 218.3 square kilometers (84.3 square miles), making it the largest lake in the country and the 59th largest in Europe. Several species of fish thrive within the crystal-clear waters of Lake Neuchâtel, its depths fed by several rushing streams. Offering spectacular panoramic views, cruise tours, and a number of other activities, Lake Neuchâtel attracts a fair numbers of tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of its beauty each year.
Mont d'Or is one of the highest peaks of the Jura mountain range situated at an altitude of 4800 feet (1463 meters) above sea level. Being one of the highest peaks in the region, it is also one of the most popular mountaineering destinations, testing the skills and temperaments of elite mountaineers. Apart from being an adventure junkie's favorite, it is also known for its skiing ranges and limestone quarries.
Earlier known as Ferrieris, Ferreyres is a municipality in Switzerland. The entire village has been listed as an area of historical importance. Its proximity to the Venoge valley adds to the beauty of this place by offering various natural spots to visit for nature enthusiasts. With a population of 304 people in December 2013, Ferreyres is a good place to visit for a short trip.
Mont d'Or is one of the highest peaks of the Jura mountain range situated at an altitude of 4800 feet (1463 meters) above sea level. Being one of the highest peaks in the region, it is also one of the most popular mountaineering destinations, testing the skills and temperaments of elite mountaineers. Apart from being an adventure junkie's favorite, it is also known for its skiing ranges and limestone quarries.
Overlooking Lake of Joux is Dent de Vaulion, a mountain peak, in the canton of Vaud. It is known for its ski resorts and hiking ventures. Hiking starts from Lake Joux up to the peak of Dent de Vaulion. It takes about 3 hours with the La Petit Dent restaurant on the way. The Chalet de la Dent de Vaulion at the top serves fondue cheese, dried meat and cream desserts with meringue. An orientation map is provided to the hikers which enable them to identify the lakes and mountains as they go by.
Le Suchet is a rugged mountain belonging to the Jura mountain range, and is the pride of the Swiss municipality of Rances. It has a height of 1,588 meters (5,210 feet), and has several trails. This place is ideal for hiking and biking. It summit provides panoramic views of the nearby mountains and the valley stretching endlessly, burgeoning with greenery and animal life. Do give this place a visit if you happen to be in the canton of Vaud.
Juraparc may sound like a safe haven for dinosaurs, but is actually a nature park. The park offers tours wherein you can take a stroll around the property, witnessing the natural beauty of the surrounding area. Animals are abundant here, with bears, wild boar, wolves and bison being spotted on a regular basis. Activities such as educational workshops give you a better insight in to how the park functions without disturbing the fine balance between mother nature and its inhabitants.
Located in the canton of Vaud, Lac Brenet is a beautiful lake in Switzerland. The lake is currently put into use by a hydroelectric plant where it is used as a reservoir. The lake freezes in the winters and the snow surface is fascinating to look at. There are various trails leading to the lake. It is a good place to visit for a day trip.