Description
The Signal de Bernex is the highest elevation in the middle of the valley floor framed by the Jura and Salève, where most of the agglomeration of Geneva is located. This park-like area offers an excellent view of the surrounding typical cultural landscape of fields, vineyards, and the renatured course of the Aire river. It is a popular destination for picnics and also features significant flora.
Among the bird species that can be observed here are the typical heat-loving species of vineyards and orchards that depend on (large) insects, such as leppälintu, pensassirkku, käenpiika, etelänsatakieli, pikkulepinkäinen, and pensaskerttu (which, however, has apparently not been sighted in recent years). The kangaskiuru, which breeds elsewhere in the canton, has also been observed multiple times.
The site is also well-suited for bird migration observation (even if there are better places along the Rhône). sääksi (kalasääski), mehiläissyöjä, sinisuohaukka, Kurki, Mehiläishaukka, and peltosirkku have been recorded. The rarer punajalkahaukka, lapinkirvinen, and niittysuohaukkahave also been noted. Highlights include sightings of a flock of tilhi in 2005, a sepelsieppo in 2019, and a hanhikorppikotka in 2021.
Details
Access
The best way to reach the site is by bicycle. Public transport access is possible via the two bus stops Bernex, Saule in the north and Bernex, Lully village in the south. There is also parking near the town hall (Mairie). A small ascent (50 to 100 meters in elevation) is required to reach the Signal. A scenic hiking trail runs from the Mairie below the Signal towards Sézenove.
