The weather lately has been beyond perfection–afternoons aren’t too hot, and evenings carry a slight and welcoming chill that make sitting outside such a pleasant experience. So what better way to celebrate these mildly magnificent summer nights than packing up a picnic (or better yet, letting others take care of the picnic) and eating dinner al fresco? We rounded up our top three picks for you to enjoy a picnic right here in Lausanne:
Parc de Mon Repos
1. Head to Rue Marterey for some grub, then down to Mon Repos with a blanket. Grab a sandwich at Mauro Traiteur (we love the Nageur; Note: they’re closed for vacances until August 15), a burger & frites at Zooburger (the Mafioso all.the.way.), or a takeaway pizza at Bravissimo then take a short walk down to the pristine Parc de Mon Repos. Park yourself on one of the grassy knolls, or set up shop in the amphitheater near Voltaire’s old stomping grounds, open up a bottle, and enjoy.
Les Jardins de Royal at the Hotel Royal Savoy
2. Stop by the Hotel Royal Savoy and lay under the towering trees in their garden, glass of wine in hand (or shisha, if that’s your style). This summer the Savoy has put together a special program for everyone to enjoy: Les Jardins du Royal, which includes a basket of local goodies for two, three, or four (sweet, savory, or both), a blanket, and a cooler for 50 CHF per person (without wine). The large gardens under the pines is all yours, including the pétanque court or babyfoot table if the competitive air strikes. We brought both kids and it was ideal (read: kids are contained & happy). Tips: You must call at least 2 hours in advance to reserve your picnic basket, also we highly recommend getting an ice cream from their trolley cart 😉
Parc du Milan
3. Head on over to Parc du Milan with dinner-to-go in hand (either a healthy option from Balzac on Boulevard de Grancy (they close at 18h30 FYI) or an incredible sandwich (or tagine) from Snack de la Gare–yes it’s a total dive) and head upwards to the top of la colline de Montriond for a panoramic view of the city and lake. If you are up for exploring the nine hectares of the park, seek out the pétanque courts, the ping pong tables, and the large grassy fields perfect for frisbee or frolicking. If you’re going at lunchtime during the week–you’ve got to pick up your lunch from Al Sacco just sous gare.
Where are your favorite local picnic spots? We’re always looking for more ideas and would love to hear from you!