It is hardly surprising that Lausanne, Olympic Capital and headquarters of 30 sports federations, was chosen to stage the World Gymnaestrada 2011. Welcoming over 20,000 gymnasts from 55 different nations over the course of a week, it proved its many qualities as a host, both in the professionalism of the organisers and in the hospitality and festival spirit of its residents. A holiday destination on a human scale, yet also a thriving business city equipped to host spectacular events of any size.

Where the good life meets a dynamic economy

At the centre of Europe and easily accessible – Geneva International Airport being just 40 minutes away – Lausanne offers a stunning natural setting. Nestling by the shores of the biggest lake in central Europe, it faces the majestic Alps and is surrounded by the Lavaux wine-growing region, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. That makes Lausanne the ideal starting point for innumerable excursion.

In addition to its idyllic situation, the region has an impressively dynamic economy thanks to the presence of universities, research centres of international repute and the headquarters of several multinationals.

The only convention centre of its kind in the world by 2013

These many assets are an equally good reason for hosting numerous conventions throughout the year, whether leading-edge science seminars or sporting and cultural events of international importance. Their organisation is facilitated by efficient and constantly evolving infrastructures, including convention halls, a wide range of hotel accommodation, the public transport network or indeed attractive programmes of activities.

15,000 m2 of new exhibition space was built at Beaulieu Convention Centre in March 2011. The site thus provides over 50,000 m2 of designated areas for trade shows and conventions. A hotel complex is planned for the site. At the Federal Institute of Technology campus, located 10 minutes from Lausanne by public transport, a new convention centre will open in 2013. It will become the world’s first totally automated convention centre, benefiting from many areas of modular design. Its amphitheatre will seat 3,000 people. It will also set the standard in terms of renewable energy: the roof will be covered with solar panels. A perfectly natural choice for a city twice presented with the European Energy Award Gold! As for hotel capacity, the 1,000 extra beds planned for 2014 will allow the city to cater for the increasing demands of business tourism.

The assets of Lausanne

* Images 3 & 4: (c) Régis Colombo / www.diapo.ch