Lakeside Gardens

Overview

Nestled gracefully on the tranquil shores of Lake Geneva in Lausanne, Switzerland, the Lakeside Gardens, also known as the Olympic Park, offer a serene and inspiring extension to The Olympic Museum. This expansive green space spans over 8,000 square meters, inviting visitors to wander amidst nature while immersing themselves in the spirit of the Olympic Movement. More than just a picturesque landscape, the gardens are an open-air gallery, meticulously adorned with a remarkable collection of sports-themed sculptures and interactive installations. Free to access, these gardens provide breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Geneva and the majestic Alps, making them an ideal spot for reflection, recreation, and appreciation of art and athleticism.

History & Cultural Background

The vision for The Olympic Museum and its surrounding gardens stemmed from the very founder of the modern Olympic Games, Baron Pierre de Coubertin, who envisioned a 'New Olympia' on the shores of Lake Geneva. His dream became a tangible reality with the establishment of The Olympic Museum on June 23, 1993, inaugurated by then-IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch. The park itself was designed as an integral part of this vision, reinforcing the enduring connection between art and Olympism that dates back to the ancient Games. Between 2012 and 2013, the entire museum complex, including its magnificent gardens, underwent a significant renovation, reopening in December 2013 to enhance the visitor experience and further celebrate the Olympic legacy.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Lakeside Gardens apart is their unique fusion of natural beauty, artistic expression, and Olympic heritage. Unlike traditional parks, this space is thoughtfully curated to reflect the values and history of the Games. It boasts an impressive array of 42 to 43 sculptures, each interpreting aspects of sport and human endeavour, creating a continuous dialogue between the artistic and athletic worlds. Visitors can engage with interactive elements, such as a running track, allowing them to test their speed against Olympic champions like Usain Bolt, offering a tangible connection to athletic excellence. The presence of the Olympic motto, 'Citius, Altius, Fortius – Communiter' ('Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together'), and the symbolic, perpetually burning Olympic flame at the entrance further imbue the gardens with a profound sense of purpose and inspiration. Moreover, the unrestricted access allows everyone to enjoy this rich cultural experience, complemented by the spectacular backdrop of Lake Geneva and the distant alpine peaks.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Lakeside Gardens are a treasure trove of stories told through art. Among the esteemed collection, you'll find iconic pieces such as Auguste Rodin's powerful 'The American Athlete', Niki de Saint Phalle's whimsical 'Les Footballeurs', and Fernando Botero's distinctive 'Jeune Fille a la Balle'. Lucien Wercollier's 'Altius' pays tribute to the pole vault, referencing the Olympic motto's call for 'Higher' achievement. A particularly intriguing piece is the kinetic sculpture by Swiss artist Jean Tinguely, which playfully combines a hockey stick, a boar's head, and a motorbike wheel, encapsulating the dynamic spirit of sport. The gardens are situated in Ouchy, a charming and upscale district of Lausanne, renowned for its lakeside promenade and picturesque setting. This integration into the local landscape makes the gardens not just a museum extension, but a vibrant part of Lausanne's cultural fabric.

Visitor Perspective

For any curious traveler, the Lakeside Gardens offer a multi-sensory experience that extends far beyond a typical museum visit. It’s a place where you can begin or conclude your exploration of The Olympic Museum, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll as a destination in itself. The inviting pathways wind through lush greenery, leading you past thought-provoking sculptures and offering numerous spots to sit and soak in the magnificent views. It’s particularly engaging for families, as the interactive elements and diverse artworks appeal to both children and adults. Many visitors find that combining a walk through the gardens with a leisurely wander along the adjacent Quai d'Ouchy creates a perfect outing. The serene atmosphere, coupled with the inspiring Olympic themes, encourages reflection on personal aspirations and the broader ideals of humanity, leaving visitors with a deeper understanding and appreciation for the Olympic Movement.