Bois de la Bâtie | Lausanne

The Bois de la Bâtie is a forest and recreational park located in Geneva, not Lausanne. While Lausanne features several large urban forests (such as Sauvabelin or Bois-de-Vaux), the Bois de la Bâtie is situated at the confluence of the Arve and Rhone rivers in Geneva.

Visual Characteristics

The park spans approximately 12 hectares on a cliff overlooking the Arve river. It is characterized by dense woodland paths, large open lawns, and a prominent animal park. The most significant visual feature is the Jonction, the point where the turquoise waters of the Rhone and the silt-laden brown waters of the Arve meet, visible from the viaduct and paths at the western edge of the park.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Chemin de la Bâtie, 1202 Geneva.

Public Transport: Tram lines 11 and 14 to the "Jonction" stop, followed by a walk across the bridge and up the paths. Bus lines 2, 4, 7, 10, and 19 also serve the "Jonction" area.

Pedestrian: Accessible via several footpaths and the "Passerelle du Bois-de-la-Bâtie," which connects the park to the Jonction district.

Vehicle: Limited parking is available on the plateau near the sports facilities.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The name "Bâtie" refers to a 13th-century fortress (the Bastie-Mellié) that once stood on the site to guard the river crossing. The area was transformed into a public park in the 1870s. Geologically, the park sits on a moraine plateau and a sandstone cliff. Ecologically, it serves as a critical urban "green lung" and includes an animal park originally designed to introduce city dwellers to regional wildlife.

Key Highlights & Activities

Animal Park (Parc aux Animaux): A free-access area housing local species such as ibex, chamois, deer, and various birds. It focuses on conservation and regional breeds.

The Lookout: Several vantage points provide views over the city, the Arve river, and the Jet d'Eau in the distance.

Sports & Recreation: The park contains large playgrounds, a paddling pool for children, and several football pitches.

Hiking Paths: Extensive shaded trails suitable for walking and jogging.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Dining: The "Café de la Tour" is a historic restaurant located within the park, featuring a large outdoor terrace.

Accessibility: Most main paths on the plateau are flat and accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, though the access paths from the river level are steep.

Digital: Strong 5G coverage throughout the park.

Best Time to Visit

Daily: 08:00 – Sunset.

Summer: The paddling pool and playgrounds make it a primary destination for families.

Afternoon: To witness the distinct color contrast at the Jonction when sunlight is most direct.

Facts & Legends

A verified fact: The Bois de la Bâtie animal park was established in 1982 and remains free to the public, funded by the City of Geneva. A local detail: The viaduct bordering the park (Viaduc de la Jonction) is a popular spot for photography of the river confluence.

Nearby Landmarks

The Jonction (River Confluence) – 0.2km West

Pointe de la Jonction – 0.5km North

Cimetière des Rois (Plainpalais) – 1.0km East