Lausanne and Lake Geneva

Bordered on one side by the terraced vineyards of Lavaux and La Côte, and on the other by the majestic Alps with their snow, Lake Geneva – locally known as “Lac Léman” – never ceases to enchant. And it’s just as attractive to visiting tourists as it is to local residents on the Swiss and French shores.

A number of charming communes have settled along its coastline. These include peaceful Pully and Lutry, as well as jazzy Cully. On the way to Morges, the picturesque medieval village of Saint-Sulpice and beautiful Préverenges stand just as proudly on the side of Lake Geneva. On the opposite shore, Thonon and Evian-les-Bains, two Belle Epoque spa towns, also benefit from the many riches offered by the lake. To cross the expanse of water, the Compagnie Générale de Navigation (CGN)  operates a record eight steam-powered paddle steamers.

An exceptional natural environment

What could be more beautiful than an immense expanse of water that changes colour with the passing hours? In fact, it’s not unusual to see the sky merging with the water… Sailing, paddle-boarding, water-skiing, wakeboarding, pedal-boating… All these nautical pleasures are available on Lake Geneva. Swimming, barbecuing on the beach, gourmet cruises aboard the historic boats that criss-cross  the lake: the many summer pleasures then make way for the magical light of autumn and the soft winter mists. Many artists and personalities have been inspired by this romantic landscape, and we can’t blame them! Some have even made their permanent home in the area.

A summer rendezvous

For those who prefer to bask in the sun, there are no fewer than fifty beaches, both wild and developed. As soon as the fine weather arrives, couples, families, solo individuals and students share these grassy and sandy strips until late in the evening. In summer, a number of refreshment stands are set up along the shores, offering snacks. As Lake Geneva is home to around thirty species of fish, many restaurants to serve freshly caught perch or féra fillets, pike and arctic char on their terrasses.

A venue for sporting competitions

Throughout the year, numerous regattas are held at various locations on the lake, some of which attract the world’s top sailors. In August, the “5 jours du Léman” is Europe’s longest endurance race on lakes. The Translémanique solo race takes place three weeks later. Every year, the Société Nautique de Genève organises the longest rowing race in the world (160km in a single leg) on Lake Geneva. But you can also cycle around the lake with the Cyclotour du Léman (180 km), where the aim is not performance but pleasure!