In the south of the town, on a high plateau below the Freudenberg, you’ll find a lovely pond-filled landscape. The three ponds at “Drei Weieren” are an oasis of calm in the middle of the city and the favourite spot for locals to relax in. They form part of a single protected area and run along the entire southern slope of the city.

The ponds, which were originally built by the monastery to supply water and boast art nouveau bathing huts, are a popular destination – a bustling bathing place in summer and a destination for ice skating enthusiasts in winter.

A trip to this magical pond landscape is an essential part of any visit to the city of St. Gallen!

Ouchy lakeside promenade

The Ouchy district is equally popular among both locals and visitors alike. Whether it’s a walk along the flower-lined waterfront promenade, a get-together as the sun goes down, or stand-up paddling on the lake – Ouchy has something for everyone. In summer, the Place du Vieux-Port and the Quais d’Ouchy are the perfect places to soak up the sun and enjoy some peace and quiet. The lakeside promenade extends from the artificial ruins known as Haldimand Tower, past the Château d’Ouchy – now a luxury hotel – as well as the pier and the port of Ouchy, all the way to the Bellerive swimming pool. The path takes you past three different parks where you can stop and take a break.

Milan Park and the botanical garden

The botanical garden, situated on the Montriond hill in the Milan Park, is a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Around 6,000 different plants from around the world can be found here. If you climb up the stone steps, you can enjoy a unique view of Lake Geneva and the Savoy Alps.

Vuachère – cycle through the city's forest

Just a stone’s throw from the city centre and away from the hustle and bustle, you will find the green lungs of Lausanne. Along the Chemin de la Vuachère, which is around eight kilometres long and leads from the north of the city down to Lake Geneva, peace and relaxation are guaranteed.

The 6.3 km Aare walk is a must for all nature-loving city folk: surrounded by trees, meadows, flowers and parks, it is hard to imagine a more relaxed and greener way to explore the city of Bern.

The trail starts at the Botanical Garden of the University of Bern, where you can feast your eyes on the staggering collection of 5,500 plant species. Follow the river to the Bear Park, where the bears Finn, Ursina and Björk welcome us, before continuing through the “Englische Anlagen” section of woodland towards Schwellenmättli. The Schwellenmättli terrace gives guests the feeling of literally floating above the Aare! Crossing the Dalmazi Bridge, nature lovers now reach the Marzilibad, where they can sunbathe in green meadows. The path continues across the Schönausteg bridge, entering Dählihölzli wildlife park before reaching Elfenau Park. The protected floodplain landscape is a feast for the eyes and promises fantastic views of Bern’s local mountain, Gurten, and of the Aare. What is more, Elfenau Park is one of the most important English-style landscaped parks in Switzerland.

On this 3.3 km “Sentiero dell’olivo” trail, nature lovers not only get to explore a Mediterranean-like landscape, but also enjoy magnificent views of Lake Lugano. The trail winds between Castagnola and Gandria, crossing remnants of ancient olive groves and new areas where this precious tree has been replanted. The trail was created in 2002 and is marked with an olive tree logo. There is also plenty of information to satisfy curious minds. 18 information panels provide information about the history, botany, olive cultivation practices, olives and the oil extracted from them.

You can access the trail either in Castagnola (at the old town hall) or in Gandria (at the car park above the village on the main road).

This little city on the shores of the lake that shares its name is surprisingly rich in green oases. The first stage of the green city walk takes nature lovers and explorers via Rigiplatz to the lakeside, where the views extend beyond the Rigi – the “Queen of the Mountains” – all the way to Mount Pilatus. Continue to the Zeughausplatz urban park, an inviting green oasis in the heart of Zug – the ideal spot to linger a while. Next, the Daheimpark with its 500 year-old Huwilerturm tower provides quite a contrast. The final destination is the Guggi lookout point with its romantic rose garden and magnificent views over Lake Zug, plus the Guggiwäldli woodland, complete with a playground for the little ones.

This green tour is all about recharging your batteries, taking a break and discovering the most beautiful green places in this multicultural city.

The Krummturm is the oldest fortified tower in the city of Solothurn and a landmark that is well worth a visit in its own right. For those seeking recreation, there is also an open green space to enjoy in the shadow of the ramparts, right by the river Aare.

This green oasis contrasts beautifully with the historic structure. The crowning glory, however, is the jetty for boat trips on Lake Biel, which is located right next to it. This is the starting point for relaxed river cruises on the Aare, attracting large numbers of people.

The magical rhododendron-filled valley, protected dry grasslands, rare vegetables and Europe’s largest collection of irises in Europe – the Merian Gardens have a wealth of green treasures waiting to be discovered.

And that’s not all! The impressive gardens have been shaped over centuries by a wide variety of individuals and feature impressive historic architecture and listed manor houses. At the Café Merian in the chic Villa Merian, for example, visitors can enjoy coffee and cake on the terrace overlooking the exquisite English Garden. A true feast for the senses.