For more than 300 years, these gentle giants have been woven into Swiss history and mythology, from alpine rescue tales to their status as symbols of loyalty, strength and mountain life. Their cultural importance is so deep that Switzerland has done something no other country has attempted: it built an entire theme park dedicated to them.
Welcome to Barryland, the world’s only Saint Bernard park, set across 22,000 m² of green countryside in Martigny, Valais . It’s part living museum, part cultural centre, part dog paradise — and unexpectedly, a brilliant bleisure stop for anyone travelling through western Switzerland.
Why Saint Bernards Are So Famous in Switzerland
Saint Bernards aren’t just adorable; they’re historic. For centuries, they lived and worked at the Great St. Bernard Hospice, helping monks rescue travellers lost in snowstorms. Their legend — heroic, gentle, steadfast — became part of Swiss identity. Barryland celebrates that legacy through modern, interactive exhibitions that explore the breed’s history, character and role in Swiss culture .
It’s not a gimmick — it’s heritage.
What Happens at Barryland
Barryland is designed as a “lively and fascinating immersion” into Saint Bernard life, combining education, entertainment and real‑time dog interaction .
Visitors can watch the dogs during:
Care sessions
Hydrotherapy
Daily activities and physiotherapy
Feeding time
All of these take place in dedicated spaces such as the Salle de soins et de physiothérapie and the Box des chiens, with multiple sessions scheduled throughout the day .
Every detail of the park is centred on the dogs’ wellbeing: they roam freely, rest, exercise and receive professional care in a spacious environment built specifically for their needs .
The Puppies (Yes, There Are Puppies)
From 21 September 2026, Barryland welcomes a new litter — Lio’s puppies — giving visitors the chance to meet the youngest members of the Saint Bernard family. It’s one of the park’s most popular attractions and an irresistible reason to visit.
The Webcam: Watch the Dogs Live
Barryland also offers a live webcam, letting fans around the world watch the Saint Bernards in real time — whether they’re playing, resting or simply being enormous and adorable. It’s a surprisingly soothing break between meetings.
Exhibitions & Events
Barryland hosts rotating cultural exhibitions, including the upcoming “Inhabitants of the Valais Wilderness” photography showcase by Fabian Leu, opening 11 September 2026. It’s a beautiful complement to the canine focus, highlighting the wildlife that shares the region with the Saint Bernards.
Where It Is & Why Go
Barryland is located in Martigny, a charming town in the canton of Valais, surrounded by vineyards, mountains and Roman history. It’s easy to reach from Geneva, Lausanne or Verbier, making it an ideal half‑day bleisure escape.
You go for:
A genuinely unique cultural experience
The chance to meet Switzerland’s national dog
Interactive exhibitions that are surprisingly moving
Daily dog activities that feel like backstage access
Puppies — because obviously
A relaxing break at Le Café de Barry, serving local seasonal dishes in warm surroundings
Barryland is fun, wholesome, and unexpectedly emotional — a celebration of a breed that helped shape Swiss identity and continues to charm visitors of all ages.