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In the heart of Nyon lies the legendary music festival that has captivated generations for its 46 editions. We had the chance to sit down with one of Paléo Festival’s originators, an individual who wears many hats within our community. President of the Nyon Tennis Club, a dedicated (though now recently retired) Sports TV journalist for 35 years as well as football and tennis commentator. He also set his sights on becoming part of Nyon’s Municipality (executive body), running for a seat earlier in 2023 in the by-elections.  Despite not achieving that particular goal, his unwavering spirit and passion for fostering unity and joy through music as well as sport have been integral to his enduring success. Vice President from 1977 until 1982, one of the originals from Paléo who is still involved to this day, giving guided tours to newcomers and continuing its legacy. He talks about how he got involved in Paléo, his cherished moments from over the years, what he does now and his thoughts for its future. Pierre-Alain Dupuis You were there from the early days of the Paléo Festival, how did you become involved? To be really honest, the first ever concert organised by Daniel Rossellat (President of Paléo Festival) was in ’73. I was a close friend to Daniel but I was playing soccer in Nyon so I was not involved. But at the age of 20, after they had organised the first one in the Salle Communal, I met Daniel who said, I think we have to go out into the open air - and so we went to Colovray down next to the swimming pool. He said I need people with a lot of energy, a solid committee – are you OK to be with me? Wow i thought, it’s a great idea – I’m ready to be your right arm because Jacques (Monnier) who makes the programme was in France. So, I was the Vice President. I got involved and put all my energy in this first open air festival. There were 5 of us and we expected 18 hundred people and we had nearly 18 thousand! Back then you had to organise it last minute, by the telephone boxes, asking if you have a car to rent me and so on - just incredible. We were very lucky, I think we were good but we also had three days of sunshine. If you had one day of rain people would just look at the weather and they would not come.  It’s not the case today. Today the tickets are sold out in 41 minutes! So just a huge success and we were very proud of that and we decided to keep going. After 5 years of being Vice President, I was in charge of the artists speaking English and Press Relations. A massive job but volunteering and I was still at university studying and playing football. It was great, it was a passion pushed by the energy and the friendship. It’s the 46 th edition this year. What keeps you coming back after all these years? Because it’s part of me. I have only missed two because of the Olympics.  I like meeting people and there are so many that I only meet once a year here! I am also of a certain help to the organisation. But to be honest, I don’t stay until 3 o'clock in the morning, I choose my nights. We have a tradition on the last Sunday with Daniel, the old guard. We make a fondue at 3am and then after the fondue its 4:30 in the morning ,the sun is rising and you look at the grounds – it’s incredible. You don’t have the feeling that 3 hours ago there was a festival. It’s clean - they have already started the breakdown. I’m sure there are many but what has been one of your highlights? (Long pause) I have a story that I like to tell. In ‘78 we had the group Clannad coming from Ireland. At this time I was in charge of welcoming artists from England and Ireland. I had to go and welcome them and the singer was called Moya Brennan. She was one of the best harpists in the United Kingdom. I went to the airport she was there with a big harp and I was in my father’s car. Of course the harp couldn’t get in the car and so she was desperate. Stay here, I told her, we are going to try to find something. I will bring your musicians to Nyon and come back with a new vehicle and we will make it! After that, I went to their soundcheck and because I was giving her more attention, she said oh he’s nice and we had a love affair! I spent the whole summer touring England at her concerts. It was a big moment and her voice, the way she played the harp, it’s incredible. So this is one of those special memories. Why do you think different generations of people can enjoy Paléo together, safely and freely? Unusual for a music festival. It’s a miracle. At the beginning, the audience was made by teenagers and older people. My father was against Paléo, all the politics guys in Nyon were against Paléo and it was a hard fight to be accepted as well. Accepted as a music festival. It had the bad image, young people with long hair, smoking, hippy. But then things changed…. Ahhh Paléo is fantastic! It brings a lot of animation to Nyon, it’s good for the economy of the area and then people started to go to Paléo in Colovray and they were amazed by the atmosphere. It was peaceful, it was nice, safe and then people were having babies and they came with their babies on their shoulders. We created the nursery, my kids went and then wanted to come back year after year. The story is that now our kids are over 30, they have kids and come with them. You know the 3rd generation. People of my age are just 5 percent of the crowd. But the average age is 30 and 50 percent of the crowd is less than 40 years old. What was kind of genius of Daniel Rossellat was he said we have to involve Nyon – the community, the clubs, the volunteers. We gave the clubs (handball, football, ski, tennis...) beverage stands, so they came with their volunteers and they get money back for their clubs. And this was very good, what they make depends on what they sell. They get at least 10, 15k and it’s important for them. During the covid years it was definitely a lack in their revenue. @Paléo Poster from 1978 From 17,500 festival goers to 250,000 this year! Where do you see Paléo in ten years time? I don’t want to say it will stay like it is but it also cannot increase. You don’t have the area, the acres. The danger is, you have so many music festivals now, it’s a question of the music industry. Will Paléo be able to have good artists on the main stage? It's so expensive now. If you don’t give, let’s say 1 million to a big star they will just go to the next festival and I think you need to have good artists. The ambiance, the spirit, this area and everything is great but people look to see who is coming. So I don’t see any change for the next 5 years but if it’s like football, you need the big important people, the Messis and Mbappes. The big artists. Will Paléo be able to pay as much as the others? At a certain period of time we had artists who wanted to play at Paléo – but now it doesn’t matter as much to them because they will play at the next festival instead. And now you do guided tours. It’s a service for the sponsors because they like to have our guests come backstage where the public cannot go, with explanations, stories and figures. But we still can’t go on stage and take selfies with the big stars! More snippets from our conversation. I am a fan of Manchester United. Locally... when I was a kid I was a fan of FC Lausanne-Sport but then I grew up and was a big fan of FC Servette but in my job of commentator, I couldn’t be bias. I like international football and the Women’s World Cup, which has just begun.  I still have an eye on this and tennis of course. I lived through Roger Federer's career – I gave his first interview when he was 16 and I commented in major tournaments . But now I am retired, he is retired and a new life begins for me. Thank you to Pierre-Alain Dupuis who leaves us with a deeper appreciation for Paléo's rich history and its enduring spirit.

A few weeks have passed since Paléo Festival 2023 ended and since then quite a few people who are yet to attend (bucket list for 2024) have asked me.. What’s it like? Is it mainly for the younger crowd? Who actually goes? I always reply - everyone! It got me thinking, the appeal of Paléo really is to everyone.What I am interested in though, is that special something that allows for festival-goers of all ages to party in the same space without treading or dancing on each other’s toes. This six-day music festival for 250,000 people running since the 70s, held in the small town of Nyon tucked between Geneva and Lausanne. A Family and Community Celebration  I asked a few different people from all different backgrounds what they thought the appeal of Paléo was.Picture this: parents grooving alongside their kids in the 70s and 80s and now those very kids are dancing with their own little ones on their shoulders. What’s the secret? As it goes, there isn’t one – just a simple formula that creates a harmonious space for all. It's a world where the cultural landscape is constantly changing and if you miss a beat, it is easy to get left behind. Beyond the music, there is a deep sense of community among attendees, the 5,000 volunteers and all the local organisations that make it happen each year. @Paléo Music for Every Generation It’s also not that unusual to find 3 generations within a family hanging out together all at the same time. The average age of a Paléo festival-goer hovers around 30 years old, which when you think music festival you immediately think of 20 somethings - not people in their 40s or 50s. The sense of togetherness, friends old and new and strong family connections make this environment. We're all young at heart here. I think for the community – they like to meet up, they like to stroll around. Even though there are 40,000 people you will always bump into somebody and just briefly say hello and it’s the conversations before and after. It’s really part of the community. The weeks before, the tickets, the experience sharing afterwards. I would say it’s a big part of our life here. - Marcello I think it’s an incredible event on our doorstep. I bring my kids as well and there is so much for them at their age between 10 and 12. They can wander off and have their own Paléo experience. It’s safe and accessible for the kids to feel free. - Vish Embracing Change while Respecting Tradition As the world evolves, so has Paléo.  By embracing change and keeping up with trends, the event remains fresh and relevant for younger as well as older attendees. It still keeps the traditions that have become synonymous with the festival experience and perhaps Switzerland as a country too. The fireworks display being one of them. Fast becoming a hot topic in relation to the environment but for now they stay until they find a cost-matching alternative. The first time I came to Paléo I think I was 16 years old (nearly 25 years ago). It was great, really different. Not the same ambiance or atmosphere but still great. We discovered a lot of groups that I didn’t know, like Placebo on tonight. I came back this year for them. It’s fun for everybody for every age. Music style for everybody as well. That’s it! – one festival-goer A Mix of Music and Memories Woven Together The Paléo organisers’ ability to put together a diverse line-up of music that appeals to multiple generations really makes it work. What started off as a folk festival now has an immense Electronic Music Stage in the Belleville that has proven to be a huge success and addition. Artists brought in cover the nostalgic hits bringing familiarity and excitement for the baby boomers whilst also bringing in new and fresh energy and music for the younger generations. It means that each generation finds favourites whilst still discovering new sounds they probably would never have. It's just super awesome, the set up and this family atmosphere, you never see this kind of festival around Europe. I am here for the Queen Rosalia, of course, the Queen of Spain. I’m quite impressed about the restaurants and the food. You came for the music but it’s quite impressive , all the different types of food - Alvarro travelled from Spain especially for the first time to be here. The likes of Indochine or the Black Eyed Peas known from different eras. Same group but totally different audience. This blend of big names alongside lesser-known or upcoming artists ensures something for all musical tastes. Robbie Williams (they said simultaneously). He was a big one. Sting was great as well last year but Robbie was amazing. We normally pick the night where there’s a band we know. It’s nice hearing some of the other bands and discovering new ones like tonight Frank Carter and the Rattle Snakes. They were really good. I wouldn’t necessarily go out of my way to listen to them but you know maybe now I go and listen on Spotify -  one Barry and Claudia’s favourite memories of Paléo. Our first time here must have been 30 years ago, when we were students in Geneva. The first encounters were linked to a big name and it was also known as a big open air already. Now in recent years you also enjoy more than just the concert but everything around it. -Marcello Paléo’s Inclusive Spaces and Family-Friendly Areas Whether it was planned this way or not, the organiser’s must have realised the magic of a truly multi-generational event lies in creating inclusive spaces. From designated family areas with kid-friendly activities and performances to different zones – food, chilled, shopping. All tailored for festival-goers seeking different atmospheres. I think because they really think about everybody’s needs. You have the La Ruche area and the crèche for babies up 8. It gives the parents a bit of a break and they can go off and have a few hours of freedom. So it’s cool. - Sarah That is particularly true if you look at what day attracts who and what time they tend to arrive or leave. The 10:30pm train home on the weekend is full of the elder generation and families whilst the younger crowd are actually arriving at this time. I think it’s the vibe and the music. If you look at the mix of people here, they don’t tend to be those who partition themselves. You got maybe the 70 year olds, they’re still feeling quite young. - Barry I also think it is a unique event – it becomes very inclusive. I think that is the vibe that is so attractive. It’s a very inclusive environment – everybody is here and at the same time there is a certain element of anonymity as well. - Claudia The Paléo Golden Team setting up the day before the start of the festival I still think there is a number of people who miss out on the biggest event of their home town. Often expats who go back to their home countries to visit friends and family or those who like to take an earlier summer holiday in July. We’re never normally here in the summer as soon as school finishes we’re off for 6 weeks.  A choice of visiting family or staying here and having fun….this year we are here and thought why not make the most of it. No regrets!It’s relaxed, even though there’s a huge crowd, I still feel safe with the kids and it feels like a family event. I love all the kids, they’re having fun. They enjoyed the music. Honestly I kind of feel like it’s a miniature Switzerland and generally I feel safe in Switzerland, I feel like it’s an amazing place to raise your kids . -  Veronika’s first Paléo. Location is also a key factor - As Daniel Rossellat, President of Paléo pointed out that Geneva people don’t want to go to Lausanne and Lausanne people don’t want to go to Geneva. So Nyon is a happy medium. Sustainability and the Future of Paléo Festival Being pioneers in sustainability since 1999 has played a pivotal role in its ongoing success. Pledging to reduce emissions by 25% by the 50th edition is an initiative that aligns with the festival’s commitment to preserving our planet. Festival-goers are a lot more conscious of the environment and their role to play against climate change. Prioritising eco-friendly practices resonates with a growing audience who value responsible events. I think it’s a good festival, I’m really excited being here. I like the atmosphere and the diversity -  there are people 70 years old! I’ve seen young kids and I’ve seen 25 year old people like myself so I think this is awesome. I want to see the king of DJs today – Martin Garrix. I also want to mention the security. It feels like a super safe place – a family event, I know this is Swiss related. - Tino from Romania came to Switzerland to experience the festival. Freedom and Expression Regardless of age, attendees can express themselves freely through their fashion, art, and dance, creating a colourful mix - if you look around, every person is rocking their own style. This freedom creates an atmosphere of openness and respect. People are welcome to participate on their own budget. Yes, you have to buy a ticket but unlike most other festivals or events you can bring in your own food and drink - instead of only being able to purchase these on-site. It does have a little something for the music lover, the different types of music genres. The food lover lots of different variety and diversity of food. The culture and arts lover. There’s a lots of different elements of culture, comedy, art, creativity. Or just come, chill and enjoy a drink and hang out with your buddies. It’s a great place to do it. - Vish Generational gaps more often divide us and the unique appeal of Paléo lies in its ability to bridge these gaps and unite people of all ages through the power of music and shared experiences. Including the diverse range of music and dedicated searches for musical artists from across the globe - the Village du Monde has played host to Brazil, India, China, Western Africa, and South Africa in the past, with 2024 focused on the Balkans.An adaptive approach to change, inclusive spaces, a sense of community, and an atmosphere of freedom – sharing the Swiss values of democracy and just letting people get on with it! Read our article with Pierre-Alain Dupuis – one of the originators of Paléo.

PALÉO LINE-UP Here we go! The Paléo Festival unveils its line-up for the 48th edition and it is set to rock the Plaine de l'Asse from July 22 to 27, 2025. This year blends legendary icons with contemporary trailblazers, promising an unforgettable experience for all music lovers. A Fusion of Musical Titans The festival proudly presents a diverse array of artists including: Rock Legends : Prepare for powerful performances by Queens of the Stone Age and a unique collaboration featuring the Sex Pistols with Frank Carter. Rap Heavyweights : The stage will sizzle with US stars Macklemore and Will Smith , alongside French rap sensations Ninho & Niska , and SDM. Pop Icons : Enjoy the captivating tunes of Clara Lucian i and the evocative sounds of Zaho de Sagazan. Electro Pioneers : Dance the night away with sets from David Guetta and the dynamic duo, Justice. In total, 120 artists from around 30 countries will come together in Nyon, celebrating musical diversity across genres and generations. The Unveiling at Usine à Gaz The line-up announcement at Usine à Gaz was great fun. Each artist's reveal was met with enthusiastic cheers, reflecting the community's passion and excitement. The Press Conference highlighted the harmonious blend of legendary and emerging artists but also set the tone for the festival vibes ahead. Paléo Press Conference at Usine à Gaz What to Do Next: For Bon Flex Ticket Holders If you bought "Bon Flex" vouchers during the Christmas offer, it's time to act! The exchange period is from March 19 to 25, 2025. Redeem your voucher for a ticket to the evening of your choice and secure your spot at this year's festival. And if it was a gift for a loved one, don't forget to remind them! General Ticket Sales For those yet to buy tickets, mark your calendars: official ticket sales commence at noon on March 26, 2025. Be ready to join the virtual queue from 11:45 on paleo.ch . Last year sold out in a record 21 minutes! For more insights into the Paléo Festival, explore any of our previous articles . Simply search "Paléo" on our site and read all about festival's vibrant history and offerings.

Be as excited as this guy! © Paléo / Anne Colliard Why Go Solo? Freedom Beats FOMO As the 47th edition of the Paléo Festival wraps up, I've been reflecting on my experiences of attending the festival solo. When I first mention going alone, people react as if I’ve lost my mind and look at me in shock horror. The notion seems to scream “lonely loser” to them. However, having experienced Paléo both solo and with friends and family, I can confidently say I prefer the freedom and flexibility of exploring on my own. When you're with others, you often spend half your time on the phone or texting, trying to locate each other, especially if you plan to meet on-site. You might end up seeing only parts of performances, usually focusing on the headliners, rather than enjoying the full range of artists you’re interested in. Where Are You?! You might settle for food you don’t really fancy because it’s easier to stand in long queues together, rather than splitting up and having to wait for each other and then regroup to eat. It’s a logistical challenge that often means compromising on what you really want to see, eat or do. Sound familiar? I realised that attending alone is actually awesome and I am going to tell you why! Safety & Security at Paléo Let me start by saying that a significant part of my confidence in doing this comes from the fact that Switzerland's environment feels particularly secure, safe, and reassuring. Paléo is also very well-managed with numerous volunteer staff, check points, and an infirmary on site to assist you. The event app also helps avoid ticket scams, a common issue with last-minute sales and resales. The exceptionally well-run transport systems put in place; the buses, trains, and plenty of car parking spaces add to the overall sense of ease. Plus, if you’re staying in Nyon or neighboring villages, jumping on your bike and cycling down to the festival is quick and easy, making for a convenient and enjoyable journey to and from the event. I’m not sure I’d feel as comfortable going alone elsewhere, but the atmosphere here makes it the perfect playground to try. The Belleville Stage (my favourite) The Joy of Freedom and Flexibility You get to create your own schedule and be spontaneous. Want to spend an extra hour at the Village du Monde or catch an unexpected DJ act on the Belleville stage? You can, without needing to coordinate with anyone else or negotiate meeting times. Navigating Paléo on your own builds confidence and is liberating, allowing you to make decisions on the fly. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to discover what you truly love—whether it’s the music, the food, or the various cultural exhibits. Deepening Your Musical Experience Fully immerse yourself in the music. I was able to enjoy every moment of Burna Boy’s afrofusion explosion on Day one, the power of Hirma's DJ set, I sang along to the hits of Nile Rodgers and Chic alongside a sea of other fans and sat, on the now very dry grounds, on the last day with the fabulous operatic tenor Roberto Alagna and friends.   Attending solo lets you move freely between stages, discovering new artists, like an abstract band at the Club Tent that you might have missed in a group setting. Paléo’s rich atmosphere—with its diverse cultural areas like the Village du Monde and La Ruche, can be fully appreciated when you're alone. You can take your time to enjoy the art, food, games and cultural exhibits without feeling rushed.  Catching a relaxed show at La Ruche Making New Friends Attending alone doesn’t mean you have to spend the entire night by yourself. Many people reach out on social media looking for others to meet up with. These spontaneous meet-ups can turn into a quick drink or meal, a shared concert experience, or just a friendly check-in that makes the night more interesting and enjoyable.  Being alone makes you more approachable, and you'll find yourself striking up conversations with fellow festival-goers. I met some amazing people while waiting in line for food or just relaxing on the grass between sets. Then I continued on my way. Just before the Sam Smith concert, I saw a guy on the phone clearly struggling to find his friends in the crowd. Another guy, wrapped in unlit fairy lights, approached him and said, "Hey, just tell them to look for me," then lit himself up like a Christmas tree! It was a sweet gesture and a clever way to stand out in the crowd. Others carried balloons or cuddly toys covered with fairy lights, making it easier to spot each other. Solo Tickets = Easier Access Sometimes it’s hard to secure tickets for the whole family or a group, but that shouldn’t put you off from going. Solo tickets are often easier to find last minute, and going alone ensures you don’t miss out on a particular artist just because your friends or family couldn’t get tickets. Put the feelers out and see if you know anyone else going that same night.  Me, behind the scenes taking a break from all the walking! Ready to Embrace the Adventure? Festival season continues this summer and with it, a unique opportunity to step out of your comfort zone. Embrace the adventure of going solo and make the most of the diverse experiences these events offer. So next time you're considering attending a festival, don’t shy away from going alone. Try Paléo next year because sometimes the best company is your own.”

Meet Jana Bachollet, Owner of Webulous Jana is the website designer behind Living in Nyon’s fresh new look. With a real feel for both design and community, she helped us bring the site to life in a way that feels both modern and true to its roots. We’re incredibly thankful for her skill, care, and patience throughout the process and we’re so happy to have her as part of the extended LIN family. Keep reading to hear what the redesign process was really like AND to find out about the AI website workshop she’s running right here in Nyon. When I first moved to St-Cergue in 2019, just a short train ride up the mountain from Nyon, I did what most newcomers do, I typed “things to do in Nyon” into Google. Time and again, Living in Nyon  popped up, offering the kind of local knowledge you won’t find in any guidebook. It felt like a friend gently pointing me in the right direction towards the best cafés, weekend activities, and local festivals. I didn’t know it then, but those helpful articles were written by people just like me: expats who had fallen in love with this region. Fast-forward to six months ago, when I first met Mandy and Seema to talk about redesigning the website. We clicked straight away (pun slightly intended). Not just because we all got on so well, but because we shared a vision - of a site that feels current, easy to use, and still community-led. Jana Bachollet - Webulous A Few Things I Learnt About Living In Nyon 🔸 It’s not just a blog.  It’s a hub for the international community in and around Nyon, lovingly built to help people settle in and feel at home. 🔸 Since 2008, nearly 2,000 articles have been published , written by just three contributors. That’s an impressive archive of stories, tips, and local knowledge. And yes, migrating all of that from WordPress to Wix was no small feat! Let’s just say it involved some digital puzzle-solving. 🔸 Redesigning a website is never just about tech.  It’s also about getting crystal clear on what the site stands for and what the audience needs. Seema and Mandy had to rethink, reframe, and rewrite sections to better reflect the heartbeat of this community. And they did. The new  site is lighter, faster, and easier to navigate. But more importantly, it still feels like Living In Nyon . Full of heart, full of community, and ready to welcome the next person searching for a place to belong. If you’re new to the area or you’ve been here a while, I hope this site continues to be the friendly digital guide it was for me when I first arrived. – Jana Curious About Building Your Own Website? Jana is running a hands-on workshop in Nyon to show you how to use AI to build a website, and the best part? No tech background needed! Perfect for small business owners, creatives, or anyone with an idea to share. You’ll leave with the first version of your live site. Wednesday, 18 June 10:00–12:00📍 The Clubhouse: Rue Nicole 3, centre of Nyon Bring your laptop 50 CHF Limited spaces 🔗 Subscribe here: www.themorningai.com

@Michel Perret / Ville de Nyon / 21 juin 2024 Ever wondered what the dreamy scent drifting from Bois-Bougy is? Now’s your chance to step inside and see what all the blooming fuss is about! On Friday 20 and Saturday 21 June, the stunning rose garden of Bois-Bougy will open its gates for a rare and final public event: the 6th and last edition of Nyon’s International New Rose Competition . Expect 63 never-before-seen brand new-rose varieties, bred by 24 rose creators from 8 countries all over the globe; from France, the U.S. and Japan to Poland, the Netherlands and Switzerland. And yes, you  get to vote for your favourite! What’s This All About? Since 2020, Nyon has hosted a one-of-a-kind rose competition with a twist: no chemical or biological treatments allowed. Only the strongest, most naturally resilient roses make the cut. That commitment to sustainability has earned international respect and made Nyon a quiet pioneer in the world of horticulture. But all good things must bloom and bow. 2025 marks the final year of the competition, and with it, a celebration of the roses that have flourished under these strict eco-standards. When & Where? Friday 20 June, 16:00–19:00 Saturday 21 June, 10:00–14:00 Bois-Bougy Roseraie, Avenue de Bois-Bougy 5, Nyon Meet the specialists , chat roses, and enjoy a friendly apéro. Two lucky visitors will also win a prize in on-site prize draws  happening: Friday at 18:30 Saturday at 13:30 Oh, and did we mention there’s a People’s Choice Award ? Vote for your favourite rose on the day and help crown the 2025 winner. Michel Perret / Ville de Nyon / 21 juin 2024 What Happens Next? Though this marks the final competition, it’s not the end for the roses. The best of the best will live on in Nyon’s public parks, spreading their beauty (and scent) across town for everyone to enjoy. And if you can’t make the open days? Don’t worry, the rosegarden will stay open all summer, Monday to Friday, 08:00–16:00. Stop by with a coffee, a camera, or just soak in a moment of calm. Who’s Behind It All? The competition is organised by Les Amis de la Rose de Nyon (LARN) , a passionate local association launched in 2019 to revive Switzerland’s rose competition tradition. Their mission? To celebrate roses, horticulture, and the beauty of shared green spaces. They also host workshops, talks, and rose-related happenings throughout the year, so stay tuned if you’re feeling horticulturally inspired.

Summer is around the corner and what better way to discover Switzerland than by taking a train and exploring this wonderful country. But where to start?   Help is on hand with “Best Swiss Train Rides”, a new book by British author Diccon Bewes. From the legendary Glacier Express, to the picturesque Centovalli and the Grandiose GoldenPass, it also contains 35 other lesser known and surprising trip suggestions including the train journey from Geneva to Brig. Diccon Bewes The book has a large overview map showing all the train trips, individual route maps, practical advice on tickets, choosing the best seats, sights, and stop-overs (Diccon recommends visiting the Château de Nyon among other castles en-route!).   There’s a suggestion of a trip on the Brienzer Rothorn, an historic steam rack railway, which is free to take on your birthday. On the Monte Generoso you can take a train to a mountain top and stand with one foot in and one foot out of the country!   Or how about a less famous, local line train journey where every stop is announced with a string of notes from a harp. These can be heard on the Yverdons-Les Bains to Sainte Croix line.    Below is a glimpse of two pages from the book. The first is of a train ride from Geneva to Brig. It’s true when he says. “At Cully, the lake is so close you can almost reach out and touch it”. The other image is a description of a ride on the St-Bernard Express.     Regular readers will recall that Living In Nyon often held events  in which Diccon came to Nyon to talk about his books on Swiss politics, Swiss maps, Swiss history and travel in Switzerland.    Diccon speaking at an event in Nyon This book has been published posthumously. Diccon sadly passed away in April 2025 in Bern, in his beloved, adopted country. Diccon became Swiss in 2020. He will be much missed.    “The Best Swiss Train Rides” is available in English, German and French.    In French speaking Switzerland, the book is available in Payot, https://www.lelivre.ch   Books, Books, Books in Lausanne,   https://booksbooksbooks.ch   Librairie la liseuse in Sion, Librairie du Baobac in Martigny.   Here’s a link to Diccon’s other books.

@ nyonmusique.ch This year, Nyon’s Fête de la Musique lands right on the summer solstice, Saturday, 21 June 2025 and it’s shaping up to be spectacular! Expect over 200 performers and 40 bands (mostly local talent) spreading joyful sounds across 13 venues, including 6 official stages plus a handful of partner spots around town. A Full Day of Music Across Town Starting at 10 am with kid‑friendly performances (register on the day), the vibe rolls into an open‑jam with bold, fresh sounds in stunning settings across town. From intimate acoustic sets at the Roman Museum to high‑energy performances by Yverdoncore, ADAC and more, there's something for every ear. Spotlight on the Neon Nymph: A Castle Courtyard Spectacle As daylight fades, gather in the Château courtyard at 10:15 pm  for The Neon Nymph Show , a breathtaking fusion of music, projections and light. Created by Magic Licorne Production and artist Fantine Schutz, expect a cyber‑electric evening that gleams under the solstice moon. A Celebration Fueled by Community Organised by the Fête de la Musique Association with support from the City of Nyon and volunteers, the festival is a celebration of local talent, creativity and cultural connection. Whether you're discovering new artists, dancing outdoors or soaking up the atmosphere, it’s truly Nyon at its best. Quick Facts Date : Saturday, 21 June 2025 (Summer Solstice) Time : 10 am to 1 am Locations : 13 venues across Nyon (6 official stages + partner sites) Lineup : 200+ local performers across diverse genres Access : Free concerts all day and night Tip : Full programme here Bring your friends and family AND your dancing shoes, and be ready to celebrate the longest day of the year with an unforgettable soundtrack.

Community Beyond Networking. More than just a networking platform; it’s a dynamic space where entrepreneurs and small businesses can connect, collaborate, and grow. With a focus on meaningful relationships and shared success, it’s the perfect place to find support, inspiration, and fresh opportunities. Email: info@b-inspired.ch Address: Rue Nicole 3, Nyon www.b-inspired.ch

Nyon has taken a significant step to recognise the women who have helped shaped its history by renaming three public spaces after inspiring, influential female figures and collectives. Announced on May 7, 2025, this initiative brings long-overdue visibility to the contributions of women in the town’s history and development. Michel Perret/Ville de Nyon A Walk Through History Parc Alice Sauvin   (formerly Parc de la Morâche) Named after Dr. Alice Sauvin-Thury (1890–1993), one of Switzerland’s first female doctors. She practiced in Nyon for decades, championed public health, supported working women, and campaigned for women’s right to vote. She worked well into her 80s and received the Henri-Dunant medal for her dedication. Sentier Ermance Natthey (formerly Sentier de la Combe) A nod to painter and educator Ermance Natthey (1843–1916), who opened Nyon’s first drawing class for girls in 1869. She played a key role in advancing women’s access to artistic education. Place des Lavandières Located beneath the Esplanade des Marronniers, this square honours generations of laundresses who worked in public washhouses, often under tough conditions, and always with little recognition. From left to right:  Suzanne Dutry (descendant of Dr. Alice Sauvin), Stéphanie Schmutz (Municipal Councillor responsible for Social Cohesion), Marinette Cornelius (also a descendant of Dr. Alice Sauvin), and Catherine Schmutz Nicod (co-curator of the Château de Nyon).   @Michel Perret / City of Nyon / May 8, 2025 More Than Just Names This initiative follows the 2021 proposal “Femmes à côté de la plaque", which called for more inclusive place-naming in Nyon. In response, the municipality launched the Femmes de Nyon historical study and a community engagement project called Pluri-Elles. The Femmes de Nyon, de A à Z  exhibition at the Château de Nyon wrapped up on 18 May 2025. Through 26 verbs, it brought to life the stories of women who shaped the town, past and present. Created with the Dictionnaire des femmes en Suisse , it was a thoughtful tribute to the many Nyonnaises who’ve often gone unnamed in history. Coming Up Senior Women in the Spotlight A photo project for women over 60, run by Association Tokyo Moon. Portraits by Ghislaine Heger will be shown in public spaces this autumn. Register here Film Night C’è ancora domani (Il reste encore demain/ there's still tomorrow ) screens 14 July at 20:30, Cantine de Rive. An Italian film celebrating women's resilience, with French subtitles (no English ones). Lavandières Weekend On 29–30 August 2025, Place des Lavandières will host cultural and artistic events recreating the world of the historic washerwomen. Through these acts of recognition, Nyon is writing a richer, more inclusive history; one that honours all those who helped build it.

Next Living in Nyon event - Tuesday 10th November at 19:30  Diccon Bewes presents his new book -   Around Switzerland in 80 Maps! A map can be decorative or informative, or both, and can reveal geography or history, or both. In fact, it is the perfect pictorial way to explain and entertain. And this collection is no exception. From the circular Swiss island of 1480 to a vision of a Greater Switzerland with 40 cantons, via the oldest map of Lake Geneva, Around Switzerland in 80 Maps takes you on a truly magical and fascinating journey. Living in Nyon is delighted to invite Diccon (author of "Swiss Watching" and "Slow Train to Switzerland” ) back to Nyon for the launch of his latest book on  Tuesday 10th November .This is the first that Diccon will be holding in Swiss Romandie. These talks are very popular so reserve your place soon! The talk will be in English and the book (in both English and French editions) will be for sale (cash only) on the evening. Talk from 19:30 to 20:30 Doors open 19:00 at the *Ferme du Manoir in Nyon at the Place du Château. Entry - 15 CHF includes a glass of wine after the event in the cave of the Château de Nyon Reservations required, cash payment to be made on the evening. Email -   info@livinginnyon.com  and write  "80 Maps" in subject headline. Please state the names of all those attending. *The Ferme du Manoir is very near to the château of Nyon and a short walk to the railway station. Nearby parking at La Duche car park or P lace Perdtemps

All images in this article @Michel Perret "La Table du 10" marks a new chapter for Nyon’s ex-police station! Despite a high interest for the building to be rented as commercial spaces, the Ville de Nyon has favoured a restaurant that will allow people to come together and bring more energy around the chateau area. It has therefore become"La Table du 10", a restaurant that blends history with modernity, creating a place that serves the community while honouring the building’s past. A Vision for Community and Creativity The goal is to create a space that complements the surrounding area, bringing together local businesses and diners in a welcoming atmosphere. Chef Philippe Lehmann brings creativity to the menu, with dishes that highlight local products and flavors. His focus is on providing sustainable, imaginative meals that reflect the best of the region. Preserving History with Modern Design One of the interesting aspects of La Table du 10 is how it balances the building's historical significance with contemporary design. The team of architects preserved the original structure while integrating modern materials. Upcycled flooring and other sustainable design choices not only enhance the space’s character but also contribute to a more eco-friendly atmosphere. A "window into the kitchen" through the mirrored wall lets diners connect with the chefs, adding an interactive element to the dining experience. Quality and Service: A Dining Experience to Remember What sets La Table du 10 apart is its focus on quality service. From the moment you walk in, you’ll feel the team’s commitment to making every guest feel valued. One of the selection criteria was to choose a partner for this space that was going to put the customer experience and guest service first to ensure guests have a memorable experience. This dedication to quality is seen not only in the food but also in the way the team interacts with guests, ensuring everything is just right. Be one of the first guests! La Table du 10 opens its doors on the 1st of April 2025 (no joke!) Have a look at their website here or jump straight to their menu .