Gland, Municipality in Nyon District, Switzerland
Gland is a town that stretches along the shores of Lake Geneva, with residential neighborhoods mixed alongside farmland and protected natural areas. The settlement sits at approximately 432 meters elevation and develops gradually from the waterfront inland.
In Roman times, the area was known as Villa Glanis and was inhabited continuously for many centuries. Archaeological finds show that people lived here and maintained settlements through the early medieval period.
The name Gland comes from the French word for acorn, a connection visible in the town's coat of arms featuring an oak tree. This symbol is woven into the local identity and shapes how the place presents itself to visitors.
The town has regular train connections to both Geneva and Lausanne, making it easy to reach from either direction. You will find schools, shopping areas, and parks throughout the municipality for both residents and visitors.
The town is home to the headquarters of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). Both of these major conservation organizations operate from this location and shape global efforts to protect nature.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.