Bois de Sauvabelin, Forest in Lausanne, Switzerland
The Bois de Sauvabelin is a forest in Lausanne, Switzerland, covering over 80 hectares on the hills above the city. It includes a lake, a wooden tower, and a signal point with views over the area.
The city bought the forest in 1817 and later tried planting exotic species. A funicular ran from 1899 to 1948, and the lower station is now a restaurant.
The name may come from Belin, the ram in the Roman de Renart, and locals often call the area simply Sauvabelin. On Sundays, families gather around the lake for walks and picnics.
Paths are well marked, but some slopes are steep, so wear good shoes. The tower and lake are popular, so visit early or on weekdays for more space.
A forest reserve called Vieux Chênes has been left to grow naturally since 2006, with no forestry work planned until 2056. Some oaks there are over three centuries old.
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