Crossing France and Switzerland, Lake Geneva is the largest natural lake in the Alps. In the shape of a crescent, it borders the mountains and certain large cities such as Evian-les-Bains and Thonon-les-Bains on the French side, as well as Geneva and Lausanne on the Swiss side. If you wish to discover the lake and take a tour, here are some of the destinations not to be missed.
In this seaside town you will find a multitude of activities to do. You can enjoy the lake on a bike ride, a boat trip or on foot. Or simply relax on its sandy beach and enjoy the show. To get an overall view of the lake, you will have to take the famous funicular that will take you to the city centre. From here you can enjoy a magnificent view of the harbour and the lake. In the Lower Town, by the lake, you can visit the Château de Ripaille.
You can also enjoy Lake Geneva and its landscapes by taking one of the hiking trails.
Evian-les-Bains
Known for its water, you can enjoy its benefits in the thermal baths. It is possible to drink from the most famous spring, the Source Cachat. Today decorated with mosaics, the water from this fountain flows all year round. Another water point is Lake Geneva, where you can take a boat or sail. Stroll along the quays to admire all the landscapes that this city has to offer.
>>>Discover villas less than an hour's drive from Thonons-les-Bains and Evian-les-Bains, located in Morzineand Les Gets.
Yvoire
This medieval town and its flowery facades have made it one of the most beautiful villages in France. The best way to visit this charming little village is to stroll through its streets and walk along the lake. Don't miss to visit the garden of the 5 senses, a maze with a variety of scents.
Swiss side
There are many things to do in Switzerland and it is possible to get there by crossing the lake by boat.
Montreux
Montreux is partly known thanks to Queen. Indeed, it is in this town that the Mountain Studios is located, which has seen many artists such as David Bowie, The Rolling Stones and Queen. Today it is a museum dedicated to the famous British group.
In front of the lake there is also a statue of Freddie Mercury.
One of the most beautiful panoramas is not far from the city. The terraced vineyards of Lavaux, a UNESCO world heritage site, offer one of the most beautiful views of the lake, mixing the blue of the water with the green of the vines. Taste some of the Swiss gastronomy with the mountains in the background.
Another must-see if you go to Montreux is Château Chillon, located 4 kilometres away. This thousand-year-old residence is as if standing on the water of Lake Geneva.
Nearby is also Vevey, the town of Charlie Chaplin, in which there is a statue in his honour and the Nestlé fork planted in the lake.
Geneva
Take a leisurely stroll by the lake and discover the famous water jet of Switzerland's second largest city. There are numerous water sports and you can also take a trip to see the lake's flora and fauna. For thrill-seekers, you can try paragliding or rafting. The city of Geneva is home to the Palais des Nations and has a large number of gardens and museums.
Lausanne
Walking through the streets of this Olympic city you will find different viewpoints from which you will have an exceptional panorama of the city and the lake. From the Montbenon esplanade and its green area you can admire the mountains and the lake. Another place, the Notre-Dame cathedral, climb the tower of the belfry and enjoy the view. Like Geneva, it has many museums to visit. Don't miss the Olympic Museum by the lake, where you will discover stories and collections. Many water sports activities are practised on the lake, you can go pedal boating with your family, it is an ideal place for relaxation.
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