Barryland, in Martigny, is a theme park dedicated to the St. Bernard dog, Switzerland’s national dog, set in 22,000 m² of wooded grounds. Discover the history of the breed and watch the Barry Foundation’s dogs in their daily routine.
Themed museums
Main highlights
- St. Bernards to observe in large green enclosures and during their daily care
- Five themed worlds with exhibitions, interactive experiences and virtual reality
- A puppy nursery where you can see the puppies, and a hydrotherapy pool for older dogs
Overview
Barryland is a park entirely dedicated to the St. Bernard, set in 22,000 m² of wooded grounds in Martigny. Its 2,400 m² building is shaped like a dog’s paw print, with curved concrete walls and a green roof.
The park takes its name from Barry, a dog who lived from 1800 to 1814 and saved 40 people. By tradition, one of the park’s dogs always bears this name. The St. Bernards on display belong to the Barry Foundation, which houses them in nearby kennels in Martigny and brings some of them to the site each morning.
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What to see and do
The visit is divided into five themed worlds combining exhibitions, interactive experiences and virtual reality tours. You follow the story of the St. Bernard from the 17th century, its transition from guard dog to rescue dog, and then its social mission.
Outside, the dogs play in large green enclosures. You can watch the caretakers looking after them. Upstairs in the building, an observation area lets you follow grooming, health checks and the use of the hydrotherapy pool for older or convalescing dogs.
A puppy nursery welcomes the puppies during their first months. Café de Barry serves local and seasonal specialities, with a view of the dogs.
Practical information
Getting there : from Martigny SBB station, take the bus to the Fondation Gianadda stop. Parking near the site.
Visit duration : allow around 3 hours for a full visit.
Audience : all ages, with guided tours for groups and schools by reservation.
On site : restaurant, covered and outdoor facilities.
Visitor tips
The park can be visited in any weather thanks to its covered areas. Care sessions take place several times a day : ask on arrival to attend one. The presence of puppies in the nursery depends on births.
This place is part of the selection The top 10 indoor activities for children in French-speaking Switzerland.
Nearby attractions
- The restored Roman Amphitheatre of Martigny recalls the great festivities of Roman times.
- The Fondation Pierre Gianadda hosts art exhibitions and houses an archaeological museum and a car museum.
- The Great St Bernard Pass, at over 2,400 m, is home to the medieval hospice famous for its dogs.
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