Article — 26 March, 2024
# Gastronomy
Top 10 of the best summer terraces in Lausanne
We all love spending time there sipping a drink, reading a good book, chatting and laughing out loud. We sometimes have a refill and always chill… Between you and me, is there a better invention than the terrace? The weather is inviting, the sky is blue and it’s not without emotion that we declare the terrace season officially open! Discover right now our selection of the 10 best spots in Lausanne where it’s simply heavenly to bask in the sun.
Deckchairs, petanque course, cocktails, the water’s edge and great company… At La Jetée, a holiday atmosphere is guaranteed! Its feel of a coastal resort and terrace right on the water’s edge make it the ideal spot to meet up for drinks with friends after a long day at the office. Head this way to catch some sun!
The bonus: ss an extension of La Jetée, the Minimum Bar adds to the charm of the place by giving off the same summer vibes, beach-hut style.
Hidden under Pont Bessières, this pleasant terrace stands out as the favourite meeting place for locals. Palm trees, colourful lighted garlands, table football and a snooker table set the stage for a relaxed spot that invites you to take a break. Whether for after-works, sunny afternoons or long summer evenings, we’ll seize any opportunity to meet up and enjoy a craft beer or a homemade cordial. Cheers!
The bonus: its unusual, urban character in the heart of Lausanne.
This charming cool spot is nestled not far from the town centre, in the heart of Mon-Repos Park. In the shade of century-old trees, we delight in the delicious homemade quince cordial and a menu of local, seasonal nibbles. There’s a choice of salads, crêpes and ice creams, to be savoured without moderation and with the added bonus for parents of a direct view over the playground to keep an eye on their offspring. It would be folly not to go!
The bonus: its location in the heart of one of the most charming parks in Lausanne. And the great playground right next to it.
In Ouchy, Le Lacustre is a summertime classic as soon as the sun comes out. Its large wooden terrace, overlooking Lake Geneva and the Alps, is the perfect spot for any time of day. Whether for a coffee, pizza or cocktail, the relaxed vibe and golden reflections on the lake make it a must.
The bonus: A stunning lakefront view, with your feet (almost) in the water.
The Terrasse de Lutry well and truly has a holiday atmosphere! What with the gravel, pine trees and direct view over the boats and lake, the place oozes summertime and apéros in the sun. From Easter to mid-October, this ideal terrace – located a mere 5 minutes from Lausanne – rolls out a menu of tasty dishes: beef tartare, moussaka or warm goat cheese salad, to be eaten without moderation!
The bonus: Just outside the city, this terrace offers a delicious sense of escape…
Very near the Vidy Bowl, the shady terrace of this unusual pop-up bar benefits from a spectacular view over the lake. Open 7 days a week, it serves snack boards with local flavours, hot dogs, terrines and rillettes, as well as a selection of house drinks. What more could you want?
The bonus: its prime location right on the lakefront.
Located at the foot of the Cité, Les Jardins du Vieux-Lausanne offer an outstanding view over the town. This bucolic terrace – slightly set back and nestled in a green setting – welcomes its lucky customers as soon as the warmer weather arrives. The summer after-works, every day from 5 pm, are a must, with music, finger food and house cocktails to be savoured in total relaxation.
The bonus: its irresistible French charm…
In the heart of the charming neighbourhood of Ouchy, Côté Lac association opens its pop-up summer bar on Quai de Belgique. It’s got everything you need to share good times in an idyllic setting, opposite the Olympic Museum’s fountain. Why not seize the opportunity to have a dip in the lake? Ouchy’s new bathing area is right in front of the bar. Let’s all dive in!
The bonus: The water’s edge atmosphere that we’re crazy about
At the foot of the Vidy pyramids, it’s the new kid on the block! As from March 29, head to the Esplanade des Cantons, in the shade of the umbrella pines and on the water’s edge, to bask on this terrace reminiscent of the Mediterranean… Shall we meet you there?
The bonus: In the summer, the much-appreciated event Lausanne sur Mer takes place right opposite!
Tucked away in a park in Pully, La Générale is a laid-back, friendly terrace ideal for catching up with friends or taking a breather in the shade. Enjoy craft beers, homemade lemonades and simple eats in a green, chilled-out setting.
The bonus: A dream spot for parents: in a park, right next to a playground.
More inspiration on @thelausanner