Lake Geneva: practical and tourist information

Located between Switzerland and France, Lake Geneva is one of the largest lakes in Western Europe. Its size, natural beauty and cultural richness make it a popular year-round tourist destination. Discover now : 

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• its features ;
• must-do activities near the lake;
• our comfortable accommodation solutions nearby.

Lake Geneva and its idyllic setting

Lake Geneva is a glacial lake formed several thousand years ago. With a surface area of almost 600 m2, it is the largest freshwater reservoir in Western Europe! Its waters are fed mainly by the Rhône and various rivers (Morge, Veveyse, Venoge, Versoix, Drance). 

It is bordered by majestic mountain ranges, notably the Swiss and French Alps and the Jura chain, which provide a spectacular natural backdrop.

A veritable inland sea between the Swiss and French territories, its shores boast a multitude of exceptional sites and are ideal for tourism activities of all kinds. 

What to do around Lake Geneva

From its sparkling waters to its picturesque lakeside towns, Lake Geneva offers a multitude of unforgettable experiences to discover during your stay in the region.

Nautical activities

Lake Geneva is a small paradise for water sports enthusiasts. From sailing to windsurfing to water skiing, visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities on the water. Local marinas and yacht clubs offer boat hire and courses for all levels. Regular regattas and competitions are also held on the lake.

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Lovers of swimming and lounging will find plenty to do on its public and private beaches. The clear, shallow waters are ideal for swimming, and there are plenty of leisure facilities to keep the family and friends entertained.

Cruises and Excursions

Take a cruise and admire the sublime sites and buildings lining the shores of the lake, such as the Château de Chillon (canton of Vaud) or the medieval village of Yvoire (Haute-Savoie)! Prefer to observe the lake from land? From Montreux, board the Panoramic Express, a rail line with elegant carriages offering panoramic views of the magnificent scenery on the way to Interlaken. The chic, palm-fringed Swiss Riviera stretches along the north shore from Lausanne to Montreux.

Cycling and Hiking

On foot or by bike, explore miles of varied scenery along the cycle paths and hiking trails along the shores of Lake Geneva. Ideal for admiring the region's terraced vineyards, lush forests and picturesque villages.

Gastronomy and wine tourism

If you're feeling peckish, grab a bite to eat at one of the lakeside restaurants: they offer both delicious cuisine and breathtaking views! Swiss fondue, raclette, Lake Geneva perch fillets and world-renowned local wines are all on the menu. 

The terraced vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are a must-see destination for wine tourism enthusiasts.

Events and local culture

Lake Geneva is steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. Lakeside towns such as Geneva, Lausanne, Montreux and Evian-les-Bains are home to fascinating museums, majestic monuments and year-round cultural festivals. Prestigious events such as the Montreux Jazz Festival and the Watches and Wonders Geneva attract visitors from all over the world.

Your hotel near Lake Geneva

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Are you looking for a hotel near Lake Geneva for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, a spa treatment or a business trip to the region?

We welcome you all year round to our comfortable establishment, ideally located next to the lake, major roads, the train station and Geneva airport!

Stay in a double or family room (accommodating up to 4 people), and enjoy all B&B HOTELS facilities and services at mini prices: high-quality bedding, private bathroom, flat-screen TV with a variety of channels, unlimited high-speed wifi connection... 

Book your hotel in Geneva now and benefit from exceptional rates!