The weather is set to stay dry for this weekend so get ready to soak up the sunshine at some fantastic events happening in Nyon and St-Cergue. There is the Autumn Market brought to you by SIC Nyon and the Wine Festival Fête de la Vigne, both of which are in Nyon. Or you can head up to St. Cergue for the exciting Désalpes celebration. Guaranteed fun in the Autumn sun that you won't want to miss! Fête de La Vigne The 11th Edition of the Fête de la Vigne is taking place at the Place du Château in Nyon on Friday 29th September from 17:00 until late Saturday 30th September 2023. It's a great event for the community to together over a glass or two of wine. Free concerts Tasting of wines from the Nyon District A walking rally throughout Nyon Food from local artisans and producers The rally will be taking place throughout the day and is open to all. There will be stations spread across the town of Nyon offering you different fun challenges to take on and solve a few puzzles during your journey. The rally stand will be at the Place du Château between 10:00 and 14:00 where you can pick up your kit. Numerous prizes will be awarded. Places are limited to 100 teams, so grab your friends and family and make a day of it! For more information on the day check out the full programme . Autumn Market in Nyon This too is happening in the centre of Nyon and is organised by the SIC Nyon from 08:00 - 18:00. The usual Saturday market vendors will be extending their time on Saturday as well as local associations in the area with their stalls. There will be food, drink, local products as well sports, cultural and musical activities on offer as well. Place Bel-Air will have lots of food stalls and a stage with an artistic programme ready for you. Check out the  full programme. Désalpe - Saint Cergue The 36th edition of Désalpe de St-Cergue is happening tomorrow up in Saint-Cergue.  A lovely Swiss tradition of when the cows, that have been up in the Jura mountain pastures throughout the summer, come back down the mountain in preparation for winter. A procession of cows adorned with colourful, floral headdresses are escorted by their herdsmen. Hop on the little red train from Nyon or further up the line which takes you right into the middle of the village of St- Cergue. The programme for the day begins at 08:45. Top Tip: even if the weather is sunny and dry, avoid the flip flops as the ground does get covered in things you would rather not step in! Have a great weekend all!

With the ever-shorter days and insistent (but much needed!) rain, our attention also turns to that age-old question – Raclette or Fondue?  When it comes to indulging in a gooey, melty cheese experience, it's between these two classic contenders competing for the top spot! Sorry Malakoff and T artiflette but neither of you quite make the cut. Raclette Originating from Switzerland, Raclette involves melting a wheel of cheese (or squares for many household raclette machines) and scraping off the molten goodness onto potatoes, vegetables, and cured meats. The result? A rich, nutty flavor with a crispy edge. Raclette gatherings offer a casual, interactive experience, making it a social and delicious affair. Image by Freepik Fondue On the other hand, Fondue, hailing from Switzerland and France, features a communal pot of melted cheese (the “moitié-moitié” version being 50% Gruyère AOP and 50% Vacherin Fribourgeois AOP) where fondue enthusiasts dip bread or controversially vegetables into the luscious mix. Fondue exudes a creamy consistency, often seasoned with a touch of garlic and white wine, creating a comforting and warm dining experience. So who wins? We think, both! What is great about each of these cuisines is they encourage social interactions during the cold, dark winter months. Perfect for informal settings, gathering friends around the table and even more delightful when paired with a good glass of Chasselas, a Blanc de la Côte from Vaud, or a Fendant from Valais. But be warned, overindulgence may result in heavy, full tummies (sometimes even “cheese babies”) and a smelly room or house, over-heated by the cheese-melting machines! So whether you are a fondue or raclette lover, or simply just love melted cheese, this is the season for you. Which side are you on?

Your voice is what gives your words power. More than just words – it's your personal signature. Learn how to make it confident, professional, and trustworthy. Join this workshop with a vibrant community of Masterminds and leave with greater self-awareness and control over how you express yourself! How do you think you sound to other people? How do you want to sound? How do you get there? This fun in-person interactive workshop is hosted by Helen von Dadelszen, founder of the Present Potential Academy and a seasoned expert in the field of performance and vocal coaching. Helen brings a wealth of knowledge and a passion for transformation. Register Here Price: 45CHF Where: Central Nyon (communicated upon confirmation) Date: Wednesday 22nd November 2023 Time: 09:00 - 11:30

Amidst the hustle and bustle of holiday preparations, the Giftbox Project stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that just one gift box can bring joy to one more child.Founded 25 years ago by local Tyrrian Livesley, the Giftbox Project is a heartwarming initiative that allows families to make a positive impact during the Christmas season. The project's mission is simple yet powerful: to provide a wrapped box of various gifts to less fortunate children in Eastern Europe, many of whom live in dire conditions below the poverty line. For a quarter of a century, the Giftbox Project has been spreading smiles and warmth, proving that the true essence of the holiday season lies in giving rather than receiving. This humanitarian appeal is a testament to the spirit of generosity that transcends borders and brings communities together. Creating a gift box is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to this good cause. The project provides easy-to-follow step-by-step instructions and engaging videos on its website, ensuring that the process is accessible to everyone. Crafting a gift box has become a cherished tradition for many local families, a joyful activity that not only spreads love but also teaches children the importance of empathy and giving back. Now is the time to act. Your contribution can make a world of difference in the life of a child this Christmas. The Giftbox Project has designated collections points locally, including their headquarters in Founex, making it convenient for everyone to participate. Visit the website for more details as well as some very heart warming special stories, thank you messages and pictures from prior years' recipients.

Nyon is not only known for its stunning landscapes but also offers a unique and exciting outdoor activity for families – geocaching. Geocaching is a modern-day treasure hunt that combines technology with exploration, making it an ideal adventure for families with kids in the Nyon area. Geocaching is a global outdoor recreational activity using a GPS receiver or mobile device to hide and seek containers, called "geocaches" or "caches," at specific locations marked by coordinates all over the world. The caches vary in size and difficulty, adding an extra element of excitement for families looking to embark on a treasure hunt. To begin your geocaching adventure in Nyon, all you need is a GPS-enabled device or a smartphone with a geocaching app installed. Popular apps like Geocaching.com or C:Geo allow you to search for nearby caches, view their difficulty ratings, and even log your finds. Nyon boasts a variety of geocaches hidden in parks, along walking trails, even in the town itself. Families can choose from easy, family-friendly caches to more challenging ones for older kids who enjoy a bit of adventure. Some caches may even provide educational opportunities, incorporating local history or nature facts. This activity is not just about finding hidden containers; it's also about the joy of discovery. Inside each cache, you may find trinkets and toys left by previous treasure hunters. If you take an item, be sure to leave something of equal or greater value in return. Some caches also contain trackable items with codes, allowing you to follow their journey as they travel from cache to cache around the world. Geocaching in Nyon offers families a fantastic opportunity to explore the beautiful surroundings while engaging in a thrilling treasure hunt. Whether you're a seasoned geocacher or a first-timer, the hidden treasures of Nyon await your discovery. Grab your GPS device, gather the family, and go on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Switzerland's geocaching paradise.

@Le Zeste Explore a contemporary perspective on Jérôme Bosch's renowned masterpiece, Le Jardin des délices , (the Garden of Earthly delights) at the Speerstra Gallery in Bursins, Vaud. From November 18 to December 23, 2023, the gallery presents a captivating exhibition featuring 18 artists from Switzerland. Each artist's work engages with a specific element of Bosch's painting, creating a connection between medieval art and contemporary creation keeping its cryptic themes alive. This modern twist fits well with Bosch's free and forward-thinking approach. The exhibit showcases a mix of art forms like painting, sculpture, photos, weaving, ceramics, and virtual art. Taking a closer look, "Le Jardin des délices" seems like a virtual world ahead of its time. List of Artists : Ligia Dias - Pietro Castano - L’Original - Gwenola de Muralt - Jam2luxe - Sar - Steph Fonteyn - Le Zeste - Nicola Sartorio - Swiss Crypto Cat - Marco Scorti - Swox - Fabian Boschung - Xavier Magaldi - Ulie Schwab - Léonard von Muralt - Cream Company and Livia Gnos When : Saturday 18th November - Saturday 23rd December Where : Speerstra Gallery, 1 chemin des cerisiers, 1183, Bursins, Vaud. Visit the website for more information.

In the heart of Prangins, there’s a hidden gem that whispers tales of the past through its curated collection of vintage treasures. Meet Sian Sibley, the creative force behind Broccoli Brocante, an antique business that has been weaving its magic in the area for over a decade. Sian in front of her Welsh Dresser passed down from her Great Aunt How it all started Sian’s journey into the world of antiques began 15 years ago in Gex, where she noticed a gap in the market for reasonably priced furniture and also between mainstream retailers and the desire for distinctive pieces. Fueled by a passion for the past, she scoured charity shops and quickly became the maestro behind a series of sales from her farmhouse. Over the years, she’s moved from Gex to Tannay and finally rooted herself in Prangins for the last six years. “People couldn’t really buy reasonably priced furniture. It was either IKEA or the other. So I started going to charity shops and buying up furniture, and there I was selling a lot because I had lots of space.” Curating Memories With a keen eye for mid-century (50s to 90s) modern pieces, English Bone China and a soft spot for Scandinavian finds, Sian’s collection transcends eras. Her love for the past began during her childhood when she spent time clearing her great aunt’s cottage attic – bursting with antiques, sparking a lifelong fascination. Armed with a degree in English and History, she even wore the hat of a museum curator in England before family life beckoned her to France where there was no shortage of Flea and Antique Markets to explore. “I’ve always loved things from the past. When I was little, I had a great aunt in North Wales, and we’d go on holiday there. She had this tiny cottage stuffed full of antiques. I remember loving being in the attic and sorting through finding treasures from WW1, for example.” The photo above is of Sian standing in front of her Great Aunt’s Welsh dresser which is traditionally passed down through the female line.   The Thrill of the Hunt For Sian, the thrill lies in the hunt, the search for unique pieces that carry a fragment of history. The buying process, she admits, is the easiest part. However, with a hearty laugh, she confesses that her collection has somewhat “gotten out of control.” The joy she gains from it and the social aspect of the sales side keep her spirits high. “The easiest thing to me is the buying because I love the search and the hunt, identifying and finding it.” Navigating Challenges While Sian revels in the buying process, time becomes her biggest challenge. Balancing the physical presence of items with the online shift, particularly on Instagram post-COVID, demands a delicate juggling act. Despite the challenges, Sian enjoys the outlet for creativity that Instagram provides, allowing her to showcase her pieces through captivating photography and storytelling. “The challenge is really just having enough time to do it, because actually, I could be doing it on lots of other platforms, but I just haven’t got the time.” The Organisational Puzzle “How do you keep track of all your stuff?” I asked, and Sian reveals her secret—a spreadsheet and a system of boxes in the cellar. There is also a well-covered cupboard in the midst of all the treasures where she keeps all the pieces that are just for her and are strictly not for sale! “Most of it is out on display. Then I’ve got a system of boxes down in the cellar. There’s always more to come up!” Sentimental Value As customers enter Sian’s world, they don’t just buy antiques; they inherit pieces of history. Sian recounts stories of customers remembering her when they use a teacup she sold them. Her collection has become a legacy, decorating homes with sentimental value and nostalgic charm. “They tell me – I always think of you when I use my teacup. It’s almost my legacy in life – I’m always going to be remembered. Some people’s homes are completely full of things that they’ve bought from me.” Sustainability as a Driving Force Living in a time now where sustainability has taken centre stage, Sian’s collection is a testament to conscious consumption. While she acknowledges the environmental aspect, she also encourages people to get interested and explore antique and flea markets for the uniqueness they offer. “I’ve noticed that now, just in the last couple of years, it’s become acceptable to give gifts second hand. The stigma of Oh somebody’s used that already has gone” Upcoming Sales and Connecting with the Vintage Community Sian hosts sales at her home three to four times a year, creating an intimate space for customers to explore and connect with the past. Sian will be at the Brocante de la Gruyère in January 2024 and her participation in events like the Garden Festival at the Château de Coppet and the August 2 day Brocante in Nyon reflects the growing appreciation for vintage finds in Switzerland. “I think vintage is growing in Switzerland because you can see that online. You can see it on Instagram, even since I’ve started three years ago. I think people are coming back to antiques as well. I think they went out of fashion, and people are appreciating it again.” So, if you ever catch yourself yearning for that special piece with a unique story, just get in touch with Sian at Broccoli Brocante. You might just stumble upon a treasure worth holding close. Don’t forget to follow her account on Instagram to get a sneak peek of her beautiful collection and stay in the loop for future dates and exciting finds!

Season's Greetings Caught up in a whirlwind of last-minute Christmas shopping (thank you Galaxus and Amazon.de ), festive drinks, dinners and end of year events wrapping up this year of 2023, I found myself reflecting on the incredible moments and experiences I've had right here in Nyon. It got me thinking about how Nyon has such a vibrant life of culture, events, festivals, thriving local businesses and initiatives, all with one goal in mind - to make our community better. Here at Living in Nyon, we showcase as much as possible and I wanted to take a moment to give you a little reminder of some of what is on offer to us. Festivals Nyon is a haven for festival enthusiasts, offering a diverse calendar of events throughout the year. The renowned Paléo Festival , with its electrifying music and incredible performances, is just the beginning. Les Hivernales , Visions du Réel , Caribana , Festival du Film Vert , Journée des Arts  and FAR° are some of the many gatherings that transform Nyon into a stage for creativity and celebration. Culture Nyon's cultural scene thrives with countless groups and activities that cater to a wide range of interests. For those seeking a more intimate and diverse experience, Usine à Gaz stands out as a cultural hub within Nyon. Numerous theatre productions from the likes of GAOS and GEDS, means there's something for everyone to immerse themselves in. Musical concerts from Conservatoire Ouest Vaudois and thought provoking exhibitions at Castles and Museums such as Le Château de Nyon , Château de Prangins , Le Musée romain de Nyon, Musée du Léman, enrich our experience here all year round. Groups and Associations From the Unscripted improvisation group and Toastmasters club to dance groups and art workshops. Local charities, initiatives and business including The Lost Food Project and Les Arcades du Borgeaud gives us a hub of different communities. Coffee Nyon's coffee scene has been growing over the years and is as diverse as its community, with two standout cafes that have earned a loyal following - Café Ex Machina and Tête de Course, along with other favourites dotted around town. Daily life Saunas and skiing in the winter months. Beaches and outdoor pools in the summer. And our most popular topic, How to Avoid those Duck Fleas ! We have a Brewery, Roman ruins, many different types of schooling available, sports events galore, politics, a trendy second hand book store , treasure filled brocantes,  the list just goes on (and on). So on that note and with the holiday spirit in full swing, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We look forward to keeping you informed about what's going on in fabulous Nyon. Thanks for your support and see you in 2024! Seema and Mandy x P.S. Stay connected on Instagram for more stunning glimpses of Nyon!

By this time of the year, most New Year's resolutions are a distant memory - exercise more, do dry January, eat less sugar and an important one for many expats living in the region - learn French! Being able to communicate in French is not only a gateway to seamless integration but also a key to unlocking the cultural nuances and making a connection with the vibrant community of this Swiss region. Changes to the rules means that in order to apply for or renew a Permit B or C, or to pursue naturalisation, candidates must have a certain level of French and are required to undergo the FIDE language test as part of the application process - vital for securing long-term residency or citizenship.  Isabelle Nicolas is the founder of language school Prêt à Parler (ready to talk) . Having run all classes online, the school is adding a face-to-face proposition in the form of group lessons. Quite frankly some of us really need this in-person connection after the explosion of online learning from pandemic times. I sat down with Isabelle to talk about why she thinks it's so important to learn the language of the country you are staying in. It can be a tough and daunting experience, learning a new language later on in life but Isabelle's goal is to help her students tackle it head on, with a joyful and determined approach. Read on for an exciting offer for all of our readers - the chance to win a French Learning Bundle! From Canada to Switzerland Isabelle Nicolas, a trained opera singer from Quebec, Canada, has a deep love for languages and not only mastered her native French but also delved into English, German, and Italian during her opera studies. She always knew that one day she would live in Europe. Destiny played its part, as her journey moved her from Canada to Germany, then to Switzerland, when the father of her children landed a job here. Nyon, with its blend of nature and city vibes, eventually became her chosen home. As her teaching, a side interest during her opera career, began to take centre stage, her love for languages coupled with her love of human connection led her to establish her language school Prêt à Parler. Isabelle's entrepreneurial spirit is evident, "When I found out that it was not too difficult to start a business, I thought, why work for another company? I'm just going to start my own." The shift to online classes occurred during her first pregnancy, and built into a thriving community and a team of dedicated teachers she calls family. Talking about the importance of learning French as a bridge connecting language, culture, and community, she underlines the necessity of language for breaking social barriers and truly becoming part of the Swiss community, drawing from her own journey of adaptation from Quebec French to Swiss French. "I think if you don't speak the local language, you will never feel fully integrated. You stay in your little bubble which is very easy to do." Prize for Living in Nyon Readers For all Living in Nyon readers Prêt à Parler is generously offering you the chance to win a prize of a French Learning Bundle worth 2,233 CHF! Simply fill out the survey and mention that you are a Living in Nyon subscriber in one of the comments box. One name will be drawn on 29th January and we will share the lucky winner with you! The bundle includes: - 12-month access to Preparation for the fide test e-course (value 1,055 CHF) - 12-month access to French For Everyday Life (value 679 CHF) - 12-month access to French Toolbox (value 499 CHF) - BONUS Access to their Signature Swiss French Test Club De Conversation: Your Little Breath of French Air! Club de Conversation, the series of group conversation classes are designed to infuse a breath of fresh air into the language-learning process. "Club de Conversation is about the joy of learning. It's not just fun; it's practical. You can use it right away." Acknowledging the stress of learning a new language, Isabelle shares her pragmatic approach. "When you're an expat, you come here, what do you want to do? Learn to express yourself quickly." Her focus on practical language skills is designed to keep learners, no matter their age, motivated and engaged, ensuring that every lesson serves a purpose. "When you learn, if you don't learn with joy, you will do it because you have to, but you won't learn as well. It has to be enjoyable." Isabelle focuses on teaching practical skills that serve expats in their daily lives, ensuring that the learning process is not only enriching but immediately applicable. Isabelle talks us through the matchmaking process between student and teacher and stresses the importance of compatibility, "The teacher makes all the difference. If you get along well with the person, you want to learn more." It is important to match students with teachers who share similar schedules, learning methods, and personalities, creating an environment that feels like an extension of a familial community. Isabelle is committed to understanding each student's learning style. Her students' personal story, goals, and preferences in order to tailor a learning plan that aligns with their individual needs. Everyone has a unique learning personality. "I get to know all of my clients. It's really important. I call all the new inquiries. And then I want to know them." A Joyful Approach to Learning The Club de Conversation, is a place for learners to interact, speak, and feel comfortable. "It's not always possible to feel safe, relaxed or comfortable in a very big group." It's in these smaller, more personalised settings that Prêt à Parler aims to create a sense of belonging, encouraging learners to share, laugh, and connect with both the language and their fellow learners. Corrections are kept to a minimum during the class to maintain the natural flow of conversation. "I'm not going to be the one who says you did it wrong or didn't use the right word. I let you speak so I don't interrupt your flow." Students can express themselves freely without the fear of constant correction with notes given after class. More Details on the Group Classes Club de Conversation is 750 CHF per participant for 15 sessions which will run from 19 February to 18 June 2024, with a minimum of 5 participants. The total price paid per participant will decrease with each extra participant, with a maximum of 12 participants. If you would like to join the group classes you can reserve your spot here . Don't forget to fill out the survey! We will announce the lucky winner in our next newsletter.

It is the 14th edition of the edgy winter festival Les Hivernales and it will be taking place over four days from Thursday 29th February until Sunday 3rd March 2024. On a smaller scale than previous years but still with a fantastic program. Les Hivernales kicks off one of the first of many festivals in 2024 here in Nyon. Locations are Usine à Gaz, the Parenthèse, the Backstage Club (Gland), the Décor Penché and the Plage des trois jetées. Check out last year's festival from their instagram here.

A thank you to Sally Freedman for this article.  Looking for the ultimate brunch experience in Nyon?  Here are some of our favourite places. We’ve picked our top three brunch spots that promise to tantalize your taste buds.  Tête de Course Located five minutes’ walk from Nyon station, Tête de Course offers a brunch experience like no other. There is something for everyone with sweet and salty options to choose from. From simple, yet delicious avocado toast to scrumptious pancakes with berries to crunchy granola and more. If you’re really hungry, why not indulge in their luxury salted waffles served with sun-dried tomatoes, eggs, marinated salmon, with beetroot and turmeric, fresh cream with lemon zest and red onions. Pure deliciousness! For more details, check out their full brunch menu . Tête de Course is open for brunch every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-4pm.  Avenue Viollier 2, 1260 Nyon reservations@tetedecourse.ch +41 22 362 20 20 @Tête de Course Café Ex Machina For a trendy brunch spot, head to Café Ex Machina located in the heart of Nyon, close to the castle. This eclectic café boasts a diverse menu featuring creative twists on classic brunch staples, such as avocado toast, homemade bircher with fresh fruit, delicious sweet pastries and much more. Pair your meal with a specialty coffee, a freshly brewed tea or a delicious homemade lemonade. Café Ex Machina is open Monday – Sunday from 8am on weekdays and from 9am on weekends. Rue du Vieux-Marché 11, 1260 Nyon 079 433 00 77 La Roulotte For vegan food lovers, Nyon has got you covered. La Roulotte, located on the North side of Nyon train station offers a brunch special on the first Saturday of the month. The owners, Lisa and Virginie are offering a delicious brunch with options to cover salty and sweet taste-buds.  The menu changes every month according to seasonal product availability. La Roulotte is open on Monday to Friday from 7am-9pm and on Saturday from 9am-7pm. Gare CFF côté Nord - 1260  Nyon info@laroulotte.ch +41 77 487 90 10.   So why wait? Grab your friends and start brunching your way through Nyon, one café at a time. Let us know in the comments where your favourite place to get brunch in Nyon is.

If you're new to the region, a hiking enthusiast, or simply eager to explore the area with friends and family, the La Côte Tourism Office app Nyon:Guide is your perfect companion. The app is free and available to download on the Apple and Play Store with an option to work offline to save you from roaming charges. It is also available in French, English and German.  Hikes Discover the most captivating hikes in the Nyon region with this user-friendly app. From the Tour de la Dole and City Tour of Nyon to a Vineyard walk in Vinzel and a Mountainbike circuit from St. Cergue to La Givrine, there are numerous scenic guided hikes to choose from. Each trail is rated based on distance, duration, elevation, and difficulty. The app provides information on whether the trail is suitable for families with young children, running, bikes, buggy, or wheelchair access. City of Nyon Tour Living in Nyon took the City of Nyon guided tour (of course) to see just how easy it was to use. The tour itself is a great one to either discover or rediscover Nyon. It is 1-1.5 hours but if you add in a stop for coffee, lunch or an apéro down by the lake, you could easily turn it into a full day's adventure. Once you press Let's Start in the app, Google Maps will guide you to the starting point which for this tour is the La Cote Tourisme Office, just next to the Nyon Library and opposite the Perdtemps Car Park. The app can be used offline as well for those not wanting to use their phone data. Simply load the walk using Wi-Fi before you head out. Then simply follow the blue dot down the marked route. Nyon:Guide App Places of Interest During the tour, the app identifies points of interest with detailed descriptions of landmarks and their history, serving as your personal tour guide! From the Château de Nyon to Julius Caesar, the route weaves through the town, down to the lakeside, and back up to the starting point at Perdtemps Car Park. For those outside Nyon, the Perdtemps Car Park is an excellent starting point, conveniently located near the train station. The app's Places of Interest feature provides brief histories at multiple stops along the way, offering a comprehensive experience   Nyon:Guide App   Nyon:Guide App After a successful city tour, we look forward to exploring other hikes available on the app—a fantastic tool for nature enthusiasts seeking guidance in the region. Find out more information on the app here. Read our previous article Everything you need to know about the Nyon Tourism Office for more information on the fantastic work they do for the region.