A trip around Lake Geneva

Europe's largest lake crosses two countries: France and Switzerland. Its dual nationality gives it an attractive mix of landscapes and heritage, as well as tourist attractions.

Historically, it is still very difficult to determine its origin and formation. In fact, there are two schools of thought on the subject: on the one hand, the proponents of a tectonic origin, and on the other, the defenders of an erosive origin. The fact is that, whatever the origin of its formation, Lake Geneva, at 581.3 km², is the largest alpine and sub-alpine lake in Central Europe.

The vineyards

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2007, the Lavaux vineyards lie between Vevey and Lutry and make for a lovely walk, as does the Ile de la Harpe, just a hundred metres away, which can be reached by swimming in summer.

The giant water jet

Far from being the leaning tower of Pisa, Geneva's Jet d'eau is just as impressive. Visible when you fly into Geneva airport, this enormous fountain has taken up residence in Lake Geneva and rises to a height of over 140 metres. The best places to get a shot of the jet are from the Mont Blanc bridge and the lake promenade along the left bank or by taking a ferry.

Sport on the lake

Enjoy slow travel on Lake Geneva by taking up paddleboarding. The idea of standing on a long surfboard and using a paddle to move forward is a fun way to travel and explore the area. As well as paddleboarding, you can also enjoy other water sports such as windsurfing and wakeboarding.

A secret beach

Here's an address known to the locals, still protected from mass tourism: the small beach near the port of Le Perle du Lac. But to get there, you have to earn your way and do a few acrobatic moves past the steep gateway to the Perle du lac harbour.

Queen on Lake Geneva

Did you know? The British rock band Queen recorded in a studio in Montreux, near Lake Geneva. Today, this sanctuary is open to the public free of charge. Mountain Studios welcomed the band in 1978 to record their seventh album. In the 90s, the four virtuosos bought the walls of this studio. It was here that the band recorded songs for The Miracle, Hot Space and A Kind of Magic. The magnificent I Want it All still resonates today. This cult venue houses a museum (with objects, posters, handwritten lyrics and all the recording equipment) and not far from there stands the statue of Freddie Mercury, unveiled in 1996.

Chillon Castle

A radiant beauty on the shores of Lake Geneva, Chillon Castle has existed since the Bronze Age and echoes the stories of counts and dukes, from the great feasts of old to the cells and darker tales. The castle impresses with its moat, double ramparts, turrets and towers... not forgetting its breathtaking views of the lake and the Alps. Located near Montreux, the building has inspired many artists and also boasts its own wine (Clos de Chillon). Its vineyards stretch across the slopes near the castle and are part of the Lavaux region.

Alimentarium

This museum devoted to nutrition is just a stone's throw from Nestlé and offers exhibitions designed to inform and entertain. You won't want to miss the huge fork sticking out of the water. It's the perfect place to relax and enjoy a picnic by the lake.

The village of Yvoire

In another setting, the fortified village of Yvoire, in Haute-Savoie, in the canton of Sciez, is one of the highlights of the lakeshore. Listed as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages in France", it has also won awards in the "Towns and Villages in Bloom" competition every year since 1959.

Trains are one of the most popular forms of transport in Switzerland and around Lake Geneva. Tourist and utility railways offer splendid panoramas, such as the Blonay-Chamby railway-museum. Hop aboard its steam train for a tour of the Riviera during the Belle Epoque. Admire the panoramic views of the Alps and the lake.

Train enthusiasts can also take the Lavaux Express through the terraced vineyards, lake and mountains.

The Golden Pass offers a panoramic journey from the Lucerne region via Interlaken to Montreux.

A boat trip on the lake is a must. There is a plethora of choice when it comes to finding a cruise, pedalo or luxury yacht. Throughout the year, yachts cross the lake, and some even offer a meal on board (a traditional fondue!).