Discover the softness of a corner of paradise between France and Switzerland: Lake Geneva and its many beaches. No less than 113 beaches have been recorded on the shores of Lake Geneva, including 24 on the French side. Nestled in the heart of majestic mountains, this vast lake is an invitation to relaxation and discovery. Whether you are a swimming enthusiast, a tanning fan, or a curious explorer seeking new horizons, Lake Geneva has something to satisfy all your desires.
The French Beaches of Lake Geneva
A Typically French Charm
In France, the beaches of Lake Geneva offer an enchanting setting between water and mountains. These beaches are often framed by lush landscapes that bring a true breath of fresh air. Imagine walking barefoot on the sand or pebbles—a guaranteed refreshing moment!
A Diversity of Destinations
France has 24 beaches on the shores of Lake Geneva. Each one has a unique charm and offers a variety of activities. Whether for a lazy day or a sporty one, there is something for every taste:
Stunning landscapes to admire
Supervised swimming areas for added safety
Play areas for children
These French beaches are a beautiful introduction to the relaxing world of Lake Geneva.
Excenevex: the Fine Sand of Léman
A Unique Seaside Atmosphere
The beach of Excenevex is one of the rare sandy beaches of Lake Geneva. With its fine sand dunes, it evokes the shores of the sea, a major asset for families and freshwater swimming lovers. It is also the ideal place to play beach volleyball or simply stroll with your feet in the water.
Activities for Young and Old
Here, time seems to stop to allow children to play safely thanks to the shallow areas. Visitors can
Relax in the sun while enjoying the fresh air
Build sandcastles with the little ones
Savor snacks and drinks offered by local stands
Excenevex promises an unforgettable day under the sign of relaxation and pleasure by the water.
Thonon-les-Bains: Leisure and Swimming
A Family-Friendly and Fun Beach
Located close to the dynamic heart of Thonon-les-Bains, this municipal beach stands out with its lively atmosphere and numerous activities. A true leisure complex offers modern facilities that will delight visitors of all ages.
Modern and Various Facilities
This popular beach includes:
Swimming pools for the pleasure of swimming
Diving boards for the bravest
Green areas for family picnics
All year round, the beach of Thonon-les-Bains ensures everyone a day full of laughter and fun, while guaranteeing well-deserved moments of relaxation.
Explore All the French Beaches
A Range of Discoveries
While flagship beaches like Excenevex and Thonon-les-Bains stand out, the French side of Lake Geneva still offers many other treasures. From Vindry to Lugrin via Maxilly-sur-Léman, each community has its own particularities and charm. These lesser-known beaches allow you to escape the crowds while enjoying the natural wonders of the lake.
Whether you are looking for a lively beach or a quiet spot, you will find your happiness:
Isolated beaches for an intimate experience
Lively places with modern facilities
Convenient access and respected regulations for peaceful holidays
Explore these beaches at your own pace and let yourself be seduced by the amazing diversity that the French side of Lake Geneva has to offer.
The Swiss Beaches of Lake Geneva
A Unique Environment
The Swiss side of Lake Geneva, with its 89 beaches, offers a different but equally fascinating perspective. These beaches are a true concentrate of beauty, nestled between the majestic vineyards of Lavaux and the historic towns. An adventure in Switzerland promises a journey between nature, culture, and relaxation.
Postcard Landscapes
The Swiss side of the lake is renowned for:
Panoramic views of the Alps and Mont Blanc
Immaculately maintained beaches
The warm welcome of the local inhabitants
Treat yourself to a beautiful escape in Switzerland, a natural setting where it’s good to live and recharge.
Bains des Paquis: Relaxation in the Heart of Geneva
An Iconic Place
The Bains des Paquis are much more than just a beach. Located in the very heart of Geneva, they are a real institution for locals and tourists seeking urban relaxation. Perfectly integrated into the city’s contemporary landscape, these baths combine modernity and tranquility.
Activities and Well-being
At the Bains des Paquis, visitors can:
Enjoy relaxing saunas
Take a gourmet break in the on-site small restaurant
Participate in regularly organized cultural events
All of this in a magnificent setting, offering an unobstructed view of Geneva’s iconic water jet.
Moratel, Cully: Charm and Panoramas
A Hidden Gem
Lavaux is known for its vineyards, and Moratel, in Cully, perfectly embodies this melodious mix of land and water. This intimate beach is a haven of peace that offers you the delightful feeling of being in a private setting, away from the daily hustle and bustle.
A Timeless Setting
In addition to its obvious charm, Moratel offers you:
Unobstructed views of the terraced vineyards
An incredible panorama of the lake and its changing reflectionsBains des Paquispla
The warm welcome of the nearby small inns
Moratel is a successful meeting of land, lake, and vine, an experience not to be missed for its beauty and authenticity.
Chillon: Between History and Nature
Between Heritage and Relaxation
The beach of Chillon is located just steps from the famous castle of the same name. This singular place wonderfully combines history and nature, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a setting marked by centuries of stories, while enjoying a moment of calm and serenity.
A Rich and Varied Experience
Whether you are passionate about history or simply love peaceful places, Chillon offers you:
Swimming in a majestic setting
Walks that allow you to explore the historic site
Amazing viewpoints for photography lovers
The beach of Chillon is the perfect harmony between culture and leisure, a place to prioritize to escape everyday life.
Water Quality: All the Beaches of Léman
A Preserved Lake
Lake Geneva benefits from exceptional water quality, recognized by numerous environmental studies. Thanks to the ongoing efforts of local communities and the vigilance of organizations, the purity and transparency of its waters make it a premier swimming location.
Safe and Tested Waters
According to analyses, 90% of the beaches of Léman display excellent or good quality. Here are some factors that guarantee this excellence:
Efficient water treatment systems
Awareness actions for lake protection
Regular monitoring and maintenance of beaches
You can check the updated swimming water quality on the CIPEL website (International Commission for the Protection of Lake Geneva Waters) which publishes an updated map of the beaches of Lake Geneva.
Lake Geneva is thus a model of ecological preservation and a top destination for discerning swimmers.
By discovering the beaches of Lake Geneva, you offer yourself an adventure rich in diversity and beautiful landscapes between France and Switzerland. Whether it is for a moment of relaxation on Excenevex beach, a dip in the heart of Geneva at Bains des Paquis, or a historical journey to Chillon, everyone will find their happiness by the edge of these crystalline waters. Lake Geneva awaits you to reveal its natural and cultural treasures, guaranteeing unforgettable memories.
