The jumpers are back out and it’s time to get cosy. Here at The Lausanne Guide, we love to hunker down with a good book. And there are a few spots along Lac Leman that provide the ideal setting, an antidote for shorter days, by combining stacked shelves with another common obsession. Coffee.
Switch up your reading habits, grab a warm brew and you might be inspired by these cafes to pick up something a little different. We guarantee that inside, rain or shine, you’ll keep turning those pages.
Les Recyclables – Geneva
“It’s impossible to throw a book away,” I was rightly told at Café-Library Les Recyclables, who aim to give books a second, third, even fourth life. New books can be ordered in, but their premise revolves around second-hand stock that’s turned over by a loyal client base of 30 years, who like to bring different ones back.
It’s weird, but I know I’m not the only one who adores the smell of a used book (let’s not call them pre-loved) and these shelves feel like treasure troves. Kick back in their vintage café where you can settle in with the regulars.
Books are mostly in French, with a large English section.
Pages and Sips – Geneva
In the centre of Geneva’s old town is a small slice of perfection. Or half a scone, if you really want to be precise. Pages & Sips combines books and hospitality in a space that immediately feels like home, even if you’re not an anglophone. There’s a wide offering of coffee, loose leaf tea and snacks. And there’s an even wider offering of new books, from the latest bestsellers to the classics.
This place is not to be missed, and the welcome is always warm. English books only.
La Madeleine – Lausanne
It’s no surprise when you walk into Lausanne’s La Madeleine that you immediately feel serene. The coffee is outstanding, and their book selection centres around spirituality, theology, the Bible and self-help. Upstairs they host creative workshops and events that are designed to make you pause and reflect. It’s a beautiful space.
Books are in French only, and they also sell children’s books and bandes déssinées.
Le Café Littéraire – Vevey
Neighbour to Vevey’s library, this café, bar and restaurant provides a winning itinerary. Loan a book from next door and enjoy it immediately. Alternatively, order a hot drink and bring it with you as you browse for your next read.
Le Café Littéraire host talks by authors and collaborates with the library in its mission to provide a cultural space for the city. With a prime lakeside location and a focus on local artists and local produce, there’s a lot to love.
As you’d expect, the library has a wide selection of books including French, German, Spanish, Albanian and English novels.
Vanessa Tracey is a(n avid reader and) contributing writer for The Lausanne Guide. You can also find her on Substack.
