The municipality of Ecublens Vd lies between the Sorge to the east and the Venoge to the west. The landscape is just one part of a stay here: walking trails, the harp at the footbridge over the Venoge, architecture and cultural events offer different themes to consider when planning your visit. If you are looking for accommodation in Ecublens, you can decide what matters most: nature trails, architectural heritage or a programme tied to specific dates.
Landscape and walks
Ecublens lies on three moraines and offers panoramic views of the Savoy Alps, the Vaud Alps and, to the west, the Jura. The municipal forest covers around 20 hectares and is used by walkers from nearby towns and villages.
There are several distinct landmarks along the walking routes. One trail runs from the historic centre of Motty to the Plaine du Croset. Another walk through the landscape of Ecublens passes through the hamlet of Renges, with its rural character, and along the meanders of the Venoge. Motty and Croset are the named endpoints of the first route; the second focuses on the hamlet and the river’s bends. You can choose which route suits your interests: local history and a specific destination, or rural character and river scenery.
Trails and connections
In the Croset district, a path for pedestrians and cyclists, starting from Chemin du Stand, connects the district centre with Chemin des Vignes and Chemin des CrĂŞts. The Voie verte is a sustainable-mobility route between Ecublens and Denges. It reopened in December 2022 after work to repair the Pont Rouge was completed. If you plan to use the Voie verte, check the current trail conditions beforehand.
Architecture and cultural venues
The Rolex Learning Center was designed by the internationally renowned Japanese architecture firm SANAA. It is open to the public daily from 7 a.m. to midnight; opening hours may change, so check them before your visit.
The Galerie du Pressoir is housed in an 18th-century municipal building and hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. It offers 100 square metres of exhibition space and 40 metres of display walls. There are 60 seats for concerts and conferences. The two cultural venues have different focuses: the Rolex Learning Center centres on architectural design, while the gallery is used for exhibitions and events.
History, special places and families
The Château de la Mothe, also known as Château de la Motte, consists of the remains of a very old fortified camp with an earth rampart and ditches. At the footbridge over the Venoge, you can make a giant harp ring out by plucking its vertical bars. Another historic landmark is the municipal bread oven, dating from 1701, which is used for various occasions.
There is a children’s playground in Parc du Mont Souplia. For families looking to include a playground in their plans, it is a specific place to visit. These spots add further points of interest to the walks and cultural offerings, without requiring you to follow a fixed itinerary.
Ecublens Plage and seasonal planning
Ecublens Plage was scheduled to run in 2026 from 7 May to 27 September at Place du Pontet, 1024 Ecublens. The planned programme included sports and recreational activities such as pétanque, table tennis, water games, parkour and climbing. A refreshment stand serving snacks was also part of the seasonal offering. The 2026 dates have now passed; check the latest event dates for future visits.
More destinations
Discover more destinations: Allaman, Saint-Livres, Cuarnens, Yens, Bière, Morges, Saint-Prex, Etoy
Back to the main travel overview: Morges.
