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Lake Geneva – Lac Léman
With wonderful surroundings, unique charm and plenty of things to do and see, Lake Geneva is quite enchanting: Enjoy a cruise or take a stroll through the vineyard terraces of Lavaux. Discover Geneva, Lausanne and the Montreux Riviera with Chillon Castle.
That’s Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva (known in French as Lac Léman) is located in the southwest of Switzerland in the cantons of
Vaud, Geneva and
Valais. The lake, which Switzerland shares with France, is a popular destination for its many sights and leisure activities.
Discover Lake Geneva
Geneva,
Lausanne,
Vevey or
Montreux are all ideal for experiencing the unique flair of Lake Geneva: They share a mild climate, rich culture and plenty of joie de vivre. The winegrowing area of
Lavaux with its charming winegrowing villages is a well known attraction, as are the mountains of
Mont-Pèlerin and
Rochers-de-Naye. You can spend the day sailing, hiking or skiing on and around Lake Geneva and in the evening enjoy the sunset on a lakeside promenade.
Cruises on Lake Geneva
A
boat trip is probably the most beautiful way to experience Lake Geneva. The views of the towns with their waterfronts, the vineyards and the surrounding peaks are magnificent.
Paddle steamers from the Belle Époque regularly ply between
Montreux,
Vevey,
Lausanne and
Geneva. A special feature in Geneva, boat taxis, known as
mouettes, ferry passengers from shore to shore. Thanks to its size and the plentiful supply of wind, Lake Geneva is also the perfect place for sailing fans.
Chillon Castle
Why not combine your
Lake Geneva cruise with a trip to
Chillon Castle near Montreux. The most visited historical monument in Switzerland, the castle is known for its mystical beauty. This is hardly surprising, as it is located on a rocky island directly on the lake shore. You can explore the castle on your own or take a guided tour. The changing exhibitions on the region’s history and culture are exciting.
Around Lake Geneva
Not far from Lake Geneva is the
Jura Vaudois Nature Park with the
Vallée de Joux, an important centre of the watchmaking industry. Excursion destinations in the Rhone Valley include
Aigle Castle and the winter sports resort of
Leysin with panoramic views from
Mount Berneuse. The journey on the
GoldenPass Express from Montreux to
Interlaken, the gateway to the
Jungfrau region, is scenically impressive.
Experience Lake Geneva for less
The
Swiss Travel Pass and the
Lake Geneva-Alps Regional Pass for five or seven days are worth considering when staying around Lake Geneva: They allow you to travel for free on public transport on two or three days and half-price on the other days.
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