Things to see, do and discover in the commune of Russin.
NATURE RESERVES
Teppes de Verbois The protected zone of the Teppes de Verbois partially lies on areas which were once a part of the River Rhône. In the 1930s the river was canalised as part of the construction of the Verbois Dam, completed in 1944. A nature reserve of 45 hectares, the site was historically exploited for its gravel until its redevelopment in 2001, but now it is a haven for a wide variety of vegetation and wildlife. The names of the ponds pay tribute to Maurice Blanchet - responsible for the reintroduction of the Beaver in Switzerland, Jacques Burnier - one of the founders of what is now Pro Natura Geneva) and Paul Géroudet - an eminent ornithologist. Parking:Parking du VillageNearest train station:RussinLocation:Google Maps
PARKS & PICNIC SPOTS
Picnic Area Picnic area located in the woods, next to the river Rhône. Accessible on foot, several minutes' walk from the Teppes-du-Biolay car park, passing the SIG Power Station. Location:Google Maps
POINTS OF INTEREST
Verbois DamThe Verbois dam was built between 1938 and 1943, and is located on the river Rhône. It replaces the former Chèvres dam, built by the Compagnie de l'industrie électrique (CIE) and the Geneva engineer René Thury, under the direction of Théodore Turrettini. Standing 34 metres high, the dam has a retention volume of 13,000,000 m³ and a crest length of 410 metres. The reservoir covers an area of 131 hectares. It is operated by the Services Industriels de Genève. Location:Google Maps
Fontaine couverte de RussinThe Russin Fountain consists of two successive basins and a limestone pillar. The roof that shelters it rests on cast-iron columns with ironwork arms. The partially buried position of the basins is typical of such structures found in rural regions. Location:Google Maps
RESTAURANTS
La ChaumazNestled in the picturesque surroundings of Russin, the establishment offers guests a chance to experience a serene and bucolic atmosphere. During the summer, visitors can relax on the beautiful terrace and enjoy dinners under the stars, surrounded by a peaceful, verdant setting. The establishment takes great pride in its signature dishes: succulent grilled meats cooked over vine shoots, delivering a burst of flavour. In addition, a carefully curated selection of fresh fish and fondue is available, ensuring a delightful experience for every palate. Website:LinkLocation:Google Maps
Le Panier de NicoleLe Panier de Nicole offers brunches in Russin from April to mid-December. Brunches are available every Saturday and Sunday (except for the first weekend of the month). Opening hours are from 10am to 2pm (end of the buffet). Reservations are required by Thursday before the weekend. On Saturdays, a minimum of 10 adults is required. Website:LinkLocation:Google Maps
Photo: Le Panier de Nicole
Café-Restaurant Vignoble DoréA cozy village bistro in the heart of the Geneva vineyards, featuring a spacious terrace with orange umbrellas, traditional cuisine, and rooms decorated in a charming, old-fashioned style. The menu highlights the renowned longeole, a local IGP sausage. Website:LinkLocation:Google Maps
WINERIES
Domaine des MolardsIn a warm and authentic setting, visitors are invited to discover wines from the Geneva terroir, while learning about the history of the estate and vineyard. The wine cellar features a 1719 kitchen renovated for tastings and a unique 11,000-litre barrel transformed into a cozy carnotzet for intimate wine moments. The wine cellar is open for tastings Monday to Friday from 6 to 7pm, Saturdays from 11am to 12pm and 5 to 6pm, or by appointment. Website:LinkLocation:Google Maps
Photo: Domaine des Molards
Domaine des RothisThe family on this estate has been working the vines to produce traditional wines in the Geneva region since the 1940s. In 1985, Jean-Pierre Röthlisberger built a wine cellar on the family farm in Dardagny in order to vinify his own wines. In 2018, the second generation took over the wine estate. Wine tastings are available from Thursday to Saturday Website:LinkLocation:Google Maps