With its prime lakeside location, now is the ideal time to explore Geneva’s natural beauty and stunning city swimming spots
As warmer days approach, Geneva provides the ideal escape for those seeking a city break with plenty of opportunity to enjoy the sunshine. With a range of lakeside beaches and an Olympic-sized outdoor pool on offer, the city’s swimming spots cater to every traveller.
From 02 May to 28 September, Geneva will introduce a new Beach Line bus route, which tourists can access for free with a Geneva Transport Card, available when staying at participating hotels. Operating every weekend until midnight, this convenient route provides easy access to the city’s most popular lakeside beaches.
Indulge in total relaxation at Bains des Paquis
Offering breathtaking views over Lake Geneva, Bains des Pâquis is perfect for those looking to spend a day relaxing by the lakeside. Located on the north shore of Lac Leman, Bains des Pâquis offers visitors access to a large public swimming and sunbathing area where they can take a dip or top up their tan, while Buvette des Bains is a great spot to grab a light bite in between swims.
For those looking to take their relaxation to the next level, Turkish baths and hammams are available year-round, allowing visitors to the Bains to completely unwind as they take in the iconic lake views.
Unwind lakeside at one of the city’s charming beaches
Geneva may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a beach break, but the city’s charming lakeside beaches make it a strong rival to Europe’s coastal towns. Plage des Eaux-Vives is a firm favourite with locals, offering 400m of beachfront with both sandy and pebbled areas, where visitors can enjoy a front-row view of the iconic Jet d’Eau while enjoying a refreshing ice cream or a delicious meal at the renowned Restaurant de la Plage, all made more accessible by the new beach line bus route.
Just along the shore from Plage des Eaux-Vives lies Baby-Plage, which is a popular choice with families looking to cool off thanks to its shaded areas and playground to keep the little ones entertained. For those staying closer to the international district on the lake’s opposite bank, Plage du Reposoir offers a fantastic family-friendly retreat, with a snack bar, restaurant and a playground promising to keep the whole family entertained in between dips in the lake.
Enjoy an activity-packed day at Genève-Plage
Located within two hectares of wooded parkland, Genève-Plage is a wellness and leisure oasis with a range of activities on offer, promising the ultimate family fun day. With an Olympic-sized outdoor pool, direct lake access, and 30 activities to enjoy such as beach volleyball, paddleboarding, and aquazumba, this is the perfect place for those who are looking to inject a little fun into their beach day. As the sun sets over the lake, visitors can enjoy the views with a sundowner at the destination’s lively beach bar, promising the perfect end to a fun-filled day.
Float along at Quai de Cologny
For those looking for a unique swimming spot, the Floating Island at Quai de Cologny will be sure to tick all the boxes with its one-of-a-kind design. Made up of a circular platform spanning 40 metres in diameter, the island is crafted from 100% Swiss oak in a nod to the region’s sustainability efforts. The island is easily accessible by public transport, or for those who want something a little more active, there is also the option to hop on a bike and take in the lakeside scenery along the way.
Take it riverside with a dip in the Rhône
For the ultimate urban swimming experience, visitors can choose to take a dip in the River Rhône, which flows through the city centre and offers multiple riverside platforms for sunbathers and picnics. The designated swimming area along the Sentier des Saules features pontoons and ladders, allowing visitors easy access to the refreshing water. Swimmers can also enjoy the natural spectacle of the Pointe de la Jonction, where the Rhône and the Arve converge, creating a mesmerising two-tone effect in the ultimate celebration of nature’s beauty.
For more information, please visit the Geneva Tourism website.
