La Maison de la Rivière is a nature and culture centre set in the forest in Tolochenaz, on the banks of the Boiron de Morges, near Lake Geneva. It brings together a research station, a permanent exhibition on aquatic environments and an educational trail.
Natural science museums
Main highlights
- Permanent exhibition covering 300 m2 on the history, geology and wildlife of aquatic environments
- F.A.-Forel submarine, built by Jacques Piccard’s team to explore the depths of Lake Geneva
- Aquariums and educational pond to observe the wildlife of Lake Geneva and the Boiron, including pike
Overview
La Maison de la Rivière is dedicated to local biodiversity and aquatic environments. It combines public awareness, conservation and scientific research. The centre sits in the forest, right on the Boiron de Morges, one of the most studied rivers in Switzerland, just a stone’s throw from Lake Geneva.
Opened in 2015 after 8 years of construction, the centre pursues a threefold mission of education, research and conservation of the region’s aquatic ecosystems. It explores their historical, geological and zoological aspects, both indoors and outdoors.
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What to see and do
The permanent exhibition covers 300 m2. It blends scientific explanations with historical anecdotes. Several disciplines come together : the F.A.-Forel submarine, built by Jacques Piccard’s team and used to explore the depths of Lake Geneva, stands alongside a thousand-year-old Roman milestone and high-tech installations. Interactive exhibits round out the visit.
Lake and river aquariums display local wildlife, including live pike, in conditions close to their natural habitat.
Outdoors, the grounds link the building to the river and the lake. You will find an educational pond and nest boxes for observing wildlife. Fun, educational activities take place in the open air. The site is also a stop on the Sentier de la Truite (Trout Trail).
Practical information
Access : the centre is located in the forest in Tolochenaz, on the banks of the Boiron de Morges, near Lake Geneva.
Visit duration : allow about two hours for the permanent exhibition and the outdoor grounds.
Audience : the site is aimed at the general public. Families with children enjoy the aquariums and interactive exhibits.
On site : indoor exhibition, aquariums, educational pond, nest boxes and trail.
Visiting tips
Extend your visit on foot along the Sentier de la Truite, an educational trail that follows the river through unspoilt nature.
The outdoor activities and wildlife watching around the pond are best enjoyed in fine weather. Save the indoor section for a rainy day.
Nearby attractions
- Morges Castle, a 13th-century Savoyard square castle, houses museums of Swiss military history.
- The Arboretum du Vallon de l’Aubonne features woody species from all five continents.
- The Signal de Bougy, at an altitude of 707 m, is home to the 110-hectare Pré-Vert leisure park.
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