Top 10 things to do in Saint-Julien-en-Genevois

At the gates of Geneva, Saint-Julien-en-Genevois enjoys a privileged living environment between city and mountain. In the heart of the Geneva region, between the Alps and the Jura, it has remained a city on a human scale where life is good. One of the three prefectures of Haute-Savoie, it was first mentioned in 1253 and, a stone's throw from Lake Geneva, between the Salève and Vuache mountains, you can enjoy hiking, the beach, relaxation, and gastronomy. On the Way of Saint James, heritage, family activities, and outings are on the agenda. If you're looking for things to do in Saint-Julien-en-Genevois or what to visit in Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, here are our top 10 things to do.

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author Written by Anto
date 03 May 2025
reading time read in 1 min

Summary

Top 10 things to do in Saint-Julien-en-Genevois

1- Visit Saint-Julien-en-Genevois with Randoland

Saint-Julien en Genevois was once part of the County of Geneva before being integrated into the province of Genevois in the Duchy of Savoy. You can still admire the ruins of Ternier Castle, witnesses to the battles between the Duchy of Savoy and that of Geneva. To discover the city in a fun way, there is Randoland . This treasure hunt can be done independently with the booklet from the Tourist Office. The circuit sheets are designed as a treasure hunt to motivate young and old. You will find the answers on the elements of historical, architectural or natural heritage.

2- The heritage trail

For an informative discovery of Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, the Heritage Trail , between nature and culture, invites you to a stroll combining relaxation and knowledge. This route extends through the hamlets of Thairy, Norcier and Crache. It is a fun way to discover the environment and local history. The starting point is in the central square of Thairy. The map guide is free, available for download. With the "Between History and Architecture" trail, you discover the city center with the help of old photographs.

3- The Salève House

The Maison du Salève welcomes you to an exceptional setting. This 18th-century farmhouse spectacularly showcases the relationship between man and the mountains. It's a vibrant cultural center with exhibitions, exploring the Salève region with nature activities, guided tours, walks, and lectures. All year round, you can take on nature challenges while exploring the surrounding area at your own pace.

Prices:

  • Adult: 6 euros;
  • Reduced rate: 5 euros;
  • Child 6 to 18 years: 3 euros;
  • Free for children under 6;
  • Family: 2 adults and up to 4 children: 15 euros.

4- The casino

Treat yourself to slot machines and electronic roulette, traditional games, poker, and many other attractions. The casino is open year-round from 10 a.m. With 112 slot machines, including 88 video reels, 15 electronic English roulettes, and traditional games like blackjack, poker, and English roulette, you'll have plenty to enjoy. Not to mention the entertainment to keep you entertained.

5- Vitam'Parc

This vast aquatic area offers you sport, fun, relaxation with all the pleasures of water and sliding: slides, a 33° balneotherapy center, a swimming pool, paddling pools, a lazy river... It is the largest aquatic area in the region with multi-track slides (four indoor and five outdoor), bubble beds, green beaches for the summer and the beach volleyball court.

Prices:

  • Adults: from 22.50 to 26.50 euros;
  • Children aged 6 to 16: from 16.50 to 19.50 euros;
  • Free for children under 6.

6- Tropicaland

Just outside Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, Tropicaland Park welcomes you to a dinosaur jungle and a botanical and animal park perfect for children and adults alike. You'll discover 35 dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures across 1.5 hectares of wild forest and grassland. The botanical and animal park is the only dinosaur jungle in the area. You'll find exotic animals, lush nature, dinosaurs, farm animals, and a treasure hunt.

Prices:

  • Adults: 10 euros;
  • Children 3-11 years: 7 euros;
  • Free for children under 3.

7- The Salève

This mountain is said to have been formed by the earth ejected from Lake Geneva when Gargantua dug it out to quench his thirst. Explore the Salève with a guide or on your own, discover the myths of this massif, admire the Geneva basin, or relax under the trees in the Salève cabins. By taking the Salève cable car, you will have a breathtaking and unobstructed 360° panoramic view overlooking Mont Blanc and Lake Geneva.

8- Nordic walking trails

For a sporting activity around Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, you have the choice between three loops, the blue, the green, and the red, to practice Nordic walking and test all types of terrain with poles. The green, blue, and red loops are complete sites, accessible to all, without major difficulties. Access is via the end of Avenue de Ternier, at the start of the old Ternier path. You will pass by the ruins of the Château de la Poype, today surrounded by vegetation.

9- The Voltaire castle in Ferney

Near Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, Voltaire's castle in Ferney welcomes you to discover the site where Voltaire spent the last twenty years of his life. This castle was built between 1758 and 1766. Today, the complex includes the castle, largely preserved in its original exterior layout, the park whose landscape composition dates back, for the most part, to the 19th century, the orangery, the gatehouse erected around 1900, and the chapel. The castle houses beautiful collections that allow you to immerse yourself in the spirit of Voltaire. As for the seven-hectare park, it is a true haven of peace where it is pleasant to stroll.

Prices:

  • Adult: 8 euros;
  • Free for children under 18.
  • The ticket can be combined with Fort l'Écluse.

10- Fort l'Écluse

Built into the mountainside, 20 kilometers from Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, Fort l'Ecluse is a vast fortified military complex. The lower fort is surrounded by a wall reinforced by a round tower, the Porte de France, and a parade ground leading to the Porte de Genève. The terrace at the top of the Porte de France offers an exceptional view of the Rhône Valley. You must climb the 1,165 steps carved into the rock to connect the two forts via an underground staircase.

Prices:

  • Adult: 6 euros;
  • Child 6-16 years: 4.50 euros;
  • Free for children under 6.

Our recommendations

If you are looking for somewhere to go out in Saint-Julien-en-Genevois, there are many possibilities such as:

  • The Guitar Festival on Stage in July
  • The Toad Elevating Moment since 2009 in July for 70s rock

Anto

03 May 2025