The scenic city of Lausanne in Switzerland, nestled between the serene waters of Lake Geneva and the majestic Swiss Alps, is ready to offer unparalleled sport tourism experiences to mark its 30th anniversary as the Olympic Capital.
Home to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and host to numerous international sport federations, Lausanne’s designation as the Olympic Capital is far from ceremonial. The city celebrates Olympic heritage and captivates visitors with its vibrant sports culture.
An action-packed calendar
To mark its milestone 30th anniversary, Lausanne has curated a series of free, festive, and sportive events. Key highlights include the unveiling of the Olympic cauldron – a legacy of the Lausanne 2020 Youth Olympic Games – and the innovative M2 Challenge in collaboration with Lausanne Public Transport (TL), where participants race against the metro over a demanding 5.6km course with more than 300 metres of elevation gain.
Gearing up for Paris 2024
As the world turns its gaze towards the 2024 Olympics in Paris, Lausanne stands out as a pre-eminent hub for Olympic enthusiasts. With The Olympic Museum as a focal point, visitors can immerse themselves in the spirit and history of the games. This summer, the museum’s outdoor giant screen will broadcast the Olympics, complemented by a full programme of activities over three weekends, including sports demonstrations and workshops, making it the perfect way to enjoy the Games.
There will also be a new free entry temporary exhibition – ‘Olympic™ Paris: An Immersive Journey’ – at The Olympic Museum from 25 May 2024 until 19 January 2025. Visitors will embark on an immersive and interactive journey through Paris’ three Olympic Games (1900, 1924 and 2024). It will not only look at the historical story behind Paris and the Olympic Movement, but celebrate the upcoming games this summer.
An open-air playing field
Lausanne’s commitment to sport is evident, from the shores of Lake Geneva to the Alpine peaks. Whether it’s sailing, cycling, running, or urban sports like skateboarding and basketball, Lausanne offers a playground for every type of athlete. The city’s parks and gardens, totalling 350 hectares, not only underscore its status as one of the greenest cities in the world, but also provide a lush backdrop for outdoor activities.
For more information about the Olympic Capital see lausanne-tourisme.ch
Main image: Lausanne Tourisme/www.diapo.ch