Parc Beaulieu

Parc Beaulieu is a public park in Geneva's Grottes district, set between Cropettes park and the Chandieu promenade. It forms part of the green corridor running from Cornavin station to the airport, and the city counts it among the most attractive links on that route. It is open around the clock and free to enter.

What is there to see at Parc Beaulieu?

The old trees are the highlight. The park holds Lebanon cedars that the city describes as among the oldest planted in Europe, said to date from around 1735 and to have come from the head of the Jardin du Roy in Paris. Around them you will find orchards, a flower garden, greenhouses and a participatory urban garden tended by local residents.

What is the park's history?

Huguenot refugees of the de Sellon banking family bought the estate in the 17th century and built the main house. In 1830 Jean-Jacques de Sellon founded the Société de la Paix, seen as a forerunner of later international bodies. The land became a public park in the mid-20th century: a 1954 report by the city parks department says the northern section, previously waste ground, was laid out with lawns, paths, play areas and benches, opening to the public from March 1955.

What can you do here with children or for exercise?

There is a playground, a wading pool, ping-pong tables and a summer kiosk. Joggers can use the "proxitraining" circuit, a 900-metre loop with seven wooden exercise stations, refurbished in May 2014.

How do you get there?

The park lies in central Geneva on the walking route from the station towards Petit-Saconnex and the airport. From the Cornavin area it is an easy stroll through the neighbouring Cropettes and Chandieu parks. The name Beaulieu goes back to the former municipality of Petit-Saconnex, merged into the city of Geneva in 1931.

What are the rules?

Dogs must be on a lead and are not allowed on the lawns or in the playground. Cycling is limited to a shared pedestrian and cyclist zone.

When should you visit?

Late spring to early autumn is best, when the kiosk is running, the garden is in bloom and the cedars give shade. In spring and autumn the park is quieter, and in the colder months the bare outlines of the old trees are easy to appreciate.

Frequently asked questions

Is Parc Beaulieu free? Yes. It is a city park, open free of charge 24 hours a day.

Is it good for families? Yes. It has a playground, a wading pool and open lawns, plus a kiosk in summer.

Can I bring my dog? Yes, on a lead. Dogs are barred from the lawns and the playground.

What is the main draw for visitors? The ancient Lebanon cedars, dating from the 18th century, and a calm green space a short walk from the centre and the station.