Promenade de la Treille

The Promenade de la Treille is a tree-shaded terrace on the edge of Geneva's Old Town, Switzerland, overlooking Parc des Bastions and the city's southern skyline. It is best known for its bench, at 126 metres one of the longest wooden benches in Europe, which runs along the terrace wall and offers seating for dozens of people with views over the park below. Beside the bench stands the city's official chestnut tree, a horse chestnut whose first bud of the year has been recorded by the city's official keeper, the secrétaire du Grand Conseil, since 1818; the opening of the first leaf is announced as the start of spring, a quaint local tradition. The terrace is lined with mature trees that give welcome shade in summer, and its elevated position gives a calm outlook over the lawns, the Reformation Wall and the tops of the university buildings. A visit is short, typically 20 to 30 minutes, but many people linger on the bench with a coffee or book. The promenade is open at all hours and free, with a peaceful feel in the morning and a more social atmosphere in late afternoon, when locals come after work. Spring, when the chestnut tree comes into leaf, is the most atmospheric season, and autumn colour is also appealing. The terrace is a three-minute walk from Place du Bourg-de-Four and the Hôtel de Ville, so it fits into any Old Town walk, and the cathedral and Maison Tavel are close by. Stairs lead down into Parc des Bastions for a stroll to the Reformation Wall and the giant chessboards. Benches are available throughout, and the terrace works well for a quiet rest during sightseeing.