The majestic Alps are fraught with many mysteries, to solve which travelers from different parts of the world come to their feet. One of these secrets was Lake Geneva, Switzerland. The crystal clear waters of this reservoir fascinate with their serenity, and the surrounding bright green hills, behind which the snow-white caps of the Alpine mountains are hidden, have a special magic.
The lake is often compared to a giant mirror: its surface is so calm that it can accurately reflect nearby houses and trees. It is not surprising that this place has become one of the most visited in Europe, and it is ready to offer its guests resorts and entertainment for every taste.
General information
Lake Geneva, or as the French call it Leman, is the largest body of water in the Alps and the second largest lake in Central Europe. Its northern coast is in the possession of Switzerland, while the southern coast belongs to the waters of France. The area of Lake Geneva is 582.4 square meters. km, of which 348.4 sq. km belong to the Swiss state. If you look at the map, you can see that the reservoir has the shape of a crescent, the tips of which face south.
The length of Lake Leman is 72 km, and the width in some places reaches 13 km. The deepest point of the reservoir was recorded between the cities of Evian-les-Bains and Lausanne: its value is 310 meters. The lake is of glacial origin, so it is quite cold and suitable for swimming only in the summer months, when the sun's rays warm the water to 21 - 23 °C.
The reservoir is the main transport artery connecting the cities located around it, between which ships sail daily. To ensure navigation around Lake Leman, 22 beacons were installed, which also give signals to fishermen and athletes about the approach of bad weather.
Nature, flora and fauna
If you look at Lake Geneva in Switzerland, the amazing nature of the region catches your eye even in the photo. There are many parks and reserves here, as well as botanical gardens, which can be found both in city resorts and in the mountains.
La Pierrez 
Mountain goat The largest nature center in Switzerland has become the La Pierrez nature reserve, whose landscapes change one after another, as if in a kaleidoscope. The park covers an area of 34 square meters. km and is a mixture of valleys, cliffs, meadows and gorges. Mountain goats, chamois, bears, lynxes and marmots live here, and among the birds you can find golden eagles, partridges and falcons, owls and woodpeckers.
Leman is a real treasury for fisherman, in the depths of which a rich underwater world is hidden. Among the inhabitants of Lake Geneva you can find pike, perch, trout, crayfish, whitefish and many other species of fish.
On a note! Swiss laws allow the use of a reservoir for fishing with a fishing rod with a single hook without obtaining a license. However, fishing with a spoon requires special permission.
Since Leman is protected from the northern winds by the chain of Alpine mountains, a unique climate has been established in the region. And if in winter Lake Geneva can still blow you with a dry, cold wind, in summer it will only reward you with a soft, warm breeze. In July and August, the air temperature in the Lake Leman region can warm up to 30 ° C, which allows the local population to safely grow grapes. The region is dominated by subalpine vegetation, and palm trees are often found in local resorts.
Cities on the shores of Lake Geneva
It is no coincidence that Lake Leman is called the Swiss Riviera: after all, several picturesque resort towns are concentrated on its shores, each of which has its own entertainment and attractions.
At the southwestern tip of Lake Leman is Geneva, one of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland with a population of 200 thousand people. Its unique symbol was the majestic Jet-Deau fountain, gushing straight from the reservoir with a stream 140 meters high. Surrounded by flowers and greenery, Geneva is replete with parks and squares, cultural monuments and historical attractions, among which you should definitely visit:
Saint Paul's Cathedral - Saint Paul's Cathedral
- Basilica of Notre Dame
- Flower clock
- Reformation wall
This Swiss city can rightfully be called a cultural center: it has about 30 different museums. Geneva is of great value to the entire world community, since it is here that the headquarters of many international organizations, such as the Red Cross, the WTO and the UN, are located.
Spread over picturesque hills and framed by vineyards, Lausanne is located on the northeastern shore of Lake Leman in Switzerland. This well-groomed, plant-filled city of 128,000 people is rich in historical sites and museums, and its many parks are a favorite place for leisurely strolls. In order to get to know Lausanne, it is important to visit its unique attractions:
- Ancient castles of Beaulieu and Saint-Mer
- Gothic Lausanne Cathedral
- Olympic Museum
- Gothic Church of St. Francis
- Ryumina Palace
Travelers love to stroll through the medieval quarter of Ville Marchais and explore the most valuable exhibits on display in Lausanne art galleries.
Once a small settlement of fishermen and winemakers, today it has grown into an elite resort town, considered one of the best not only in Switzerland, but throughout Europe. Montreux, with a population of only 26 thousand people, is located at the easternmost point of Leman.
Photos and descriptions of this resort on Lake Geneva make it clear that this place is not for those who are used to saving money: luxury hotels, elite clinics, top-level restaurants, expensive boutiques greet tourists at every turn.
Every year a jazz festival is held here, which attracts famous musicians from all over the world. Among the notable places of Montreux, it is worth highlighting the Chillon Castle, which is located in the suburbs, and the monument to Freddie Mercury, installed on the embankment of Lake Leman.
The small town of Vevey in Switzerland with a population of 19.5 thousand people is located on the northeastern coast of the lake. Famous throughout the world for its fertile vineyards, this environmentally friendly resort is calm and cozy.
Monument to Charlie Chaplin If you happen to find yourself in Vevey, be sure to stroll along the Grand-Place, visit the old cafe de La Clef and climb to the top of Mount Pelerin. This resort was valued by many celebrities: it was here that the talented actor Charlie Chaplin spent the last years of his life, in whose honor a monument was erected in the city park. Like other cities in Switzerland, Vevey boasts unique museums, among which the Wine Museum, the Photography Museum and the Food Museum deserve special attention.
Evian-les-Bains
One of the oldest European thermal resorts, Evian-les-Bains is located on the southern shore of Lake Geneva in France. This secluded place with a population of only 8,600 people is famous for its first-class balneotherapy, for which English monarchs and aristocracy have long come here for treatment. And today, any traveler visiting Evian-les-Bains can afford these procedures.
There are surprisingly few tourists here, so the atmosphere in the city is conducive to a calm and measured holiday. Evian-les-Bains has excellent water connections to all towns on the Swiss Riviera, so getting here for spa activities is easy.
Thonon-les-Bains
Thonon-les-Bains is the largest resort town located on the southern shores of Lake Leman in France. It is very popular among tourists due to its numerous thermal springs. The unique Savoyard architecture of Thonon-les-Bains, with its shops and souvenir shops, stands out among other towns on Lake Geneva.
There are several interesting attractions here, among which the following are of particular value:
Ripay Castle - Ripay Castle
- City Hall
- central square
- Ancient Church of St. Paul
Thonon-les-Bains is located right at the foot of Mont Blanc and the Chablais massif, accessible by cable car and enjoying stunning views of the surrounding area.
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Things to do
In addition to walking around the main resorts of Lake Geneva, where there are many attractions, tourists have an excellent opportunity to attend local events and arrange a real attraction of water activities.
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And the second largest in Europe (after Lake Balaton). Its surface area is 582 km 2, its water volume is 89 km 3. It is located at an altitude of 372 m above sea level, just 70 km from the highest peak of the Alps -. Rivers and streams flow into the lake from all sides. The largest of the rivers, the Rhone, flows into it, and then restores its course and flows on. In winter, strong winds blow here, the so-called biz - a cold north-east wind - is especially unpleasant. Genevans claim that it can cause mental instability in citizens, and judges even take this into account when sentencing offenders.
The central part of Lake Geneva never freezes, so shipping does not stop during the winter. In the past, the lake was used to transport timber and other goods, but today it is mainly used by passengers.
The Lake Geneva Navigation Company has 16 large, comfortable ships, including vintage ones, that operate regular flights between cities in Switzerland and France or offer themed cruises lasting several hours. In addition, Lake Leman is an excellent place for sailing, windsurfing and water skiing.
The largest lake in the Alps
Switzerland in our minds is inseparable from the Alps. However, it is impossible to imagine it without two large lakes - Geneva on the border with France and Lake Constance on the border with Germany.
For several centuries, the Swiss Riviera has attracted the richest people and the most incorrigible romantics from all over the world. Lord Byron, the Austrian Empress Sissi, Ernest Hemingway, Vladimir Nabokov, Igor Stravinsky, Charlie Chaplin, Alfred Hitchcock, Freddie Mercury lived here... Representatives of creative bohemia and science, the so-called cream of society, preferred the most sophisticated and fashionable towns of the coast - Vevey ( Charlie Chaplin and Henryk Sienkiewicz lived and died here) and (Vladimir Nabokov spent the last years of his life and was buried here).
The mesmerizing beauty of Lake Geneva, the proximity of the Alps, the splendor of subtropical nature and healing air make these places truly magical. Flowering mountains with vineyards descend in terraces to the very shores. But these places are famous not only for their magnificent landscapes.
The cantons around the lake (Geneva, Vaud and Valais) are truly a tax haven for foreigners. Lands near the coast remain inaccessible to local residents - they are bought by rich sheikhs and owners of oil fields. However, the Geneva authorities remain aloof from resolving this issue.
joined the Swiss Confederation only in 1815 and does not feel particularly strong in terms of its position in this community. Most of the wealthy residents of the canton are thinking about the possibility of uniting Geneva and Vaud into one canton, the position of which would be much more secure.
Numbers
Area: 582 km 3 . (Big lake - 503 km 2. Small lake - 79 km 2).French part: 239 km 2.
Swiss part: 343 km 2.
Maximum width: 13.8 km.
Length: 73 km.
Maximum depth: 310 m (Small Lake - 78 m), average depth: 157 m.
Catchment area: 7395 km 2.
Volume: 89 km 3 .
Average temperature (at water surface):+20ºС in summer and + 4ºС in winter.
Economy
Tourism.
Agriculture: viticulture.
Fishing.
Industry: production of wine, mineral water, chocolate, baby food, cosmetics, tobacco products, equipment for motor boats and gliders.
Climate and weather
The region is affected by three types of climate: Atlantic, Mediterranean and temperate continental.Winters are cold and dry, and summers are warm, with frequent winds usually blowing from the southwest.
Attractions
■ Geneva a: Museum of Art and History, Red Cross Museum, water fountain, Flower Clock, UN building;■ Chillon Castle;
■ Vineyards around the lake;
■ Evian resort (medicinal springs).
Curious facts
■ At Evian-les-Bains, on the French shore of the lake, agreements were signed between France and Algeria in 1962 to end the war and grant Algeria independence.■ The lake gained particular popularity after the Deep Purple group’s hit Smoke On The Water, dedicated to the events of December 1971 in Montreux, when during a Frank Zappa concert the casino caught fire and smoke actually spread over the water of Leman.
■ Fishing on the lake is becoming increasingly less important. Nowadays, the main fish caught here are pike perch, trout and pike. But this is a real paradise for water sports lovers.
■ 22 lighthouses around the lake warn fishermen and sports enthusiasts of approaching thunderstorms.
And again we pay attention to the most beautiful lakes of our planet. This time we will tell you about Lake Geneva - the largest alpine and subalpine lake in Central Europe. It is located on the border of Switzerland and France in the western part of the Alps mountain range.
Lake Geneva on the map
- Geographic coordinates 46.447433, 6.489248
- The distance from the capital of Switzerland, Bern is approximately 100 km
- There are several airports around the lake. In the northern part there is Lausanne-Bléchered Airport, and in the southwestern part there is Geneva International Airport
A beautiful crescent of Lake Geneva circles the town of Thonon-les-Bains in France, the northern part abuts the Swiss city of Lausanne, and the westernmost part adjoins the famous Geneva.
Lake Geneva covers an area of 581.3 km2 and is approximately 73 km long. The width of the lake reaches 14 km. The lake lies at an altitude of 372 meters above sea level. The volume of water is estimated at 89 km3. The average depth of Lake Geneva is 154 meters, and the maximum reaches 309 meters. Lake Geneva is located in the bed of the Rhone River. It is usually divided into the Big Lake (occupies the entire northern and eastern part of Lake Geneva) and the Small Lake (occupies the entire southwestern part). The border between them is considered to be an imaginary straight line connecting the city of Prangins (originally Prangins) on the Swiss side with the city of Yvoire (originally Yvoire) on the French side of the lake.
Lake Geneva is also called Leman (originally Lac Leman or Le Leman). The name is believed to be of Celtic origin, derived from the Latin "Lacus Lemanus". But in the world it is better known as “Geneva”.
There are two versions of the formation of the lake. According to the first, the reservoir was formed as a result of the movement of tectonic plates. The second theory explains the appearance of the lake due to the influence of glaciers during the last ice age. Scientists who adhere to this version believe that the lake is already about 15,000 - 17,000 years old, and it was the result of the retreat of the Rhone glacier.
This corner of the planet is extremely interesting for its incredible landscapes. Beautiful mountains against the backdrop of an equally beautiful lake - that’s what attracts people here. The northern part of the lake is especially attractive. It is called the "Swiss Riviera". A large number of luxury hotels are concentrated here. In addition, there are many balneological and health resorts on the coast.
In fact, Lake Geneva is a treasure trove of attractions. In its western part, in the city of Geneva, near the Gustave-Ador embankment, there is the Jet Deaux fountain. It is already more than 120 years old, and at the time of its construction the fountain was the tallest in the world. The stream of water can rise to a height of 147 meters.
On the east coast is the famous Chillon Castle, built at the dawn of the second millennium. It is not known for certain when exactly it was built, but the first mention of it dates back to 1160.
15th century Ripaille Castle on the outskirts of Thonon-les-Bains.
The city of Lausanne is generally considered the capital of the international Olympic movement. The large Olympic Museum and the headquarters of the International Olympic Committee are located here.
In the Montreux-Vevey area on the Ruvna embankment there is a statue of the legendary Freddie Mercury
The climate in the vicinity of Lake Geneva is very mild and comfortable. Clean alpine air and dense forests. In summer, the water in the lake warms up to +24 o C, which is conducive to a pleasant pastime and calm and measured swimming.
The entire coast of Lake Geneva is literally a magnet for people with money, including many very famous personalities. Legendary comedian Charlie Chaplin spent the last years of his life in the lakeside town of Vevi. At various times, Audrey Hepburn, David Bowie, Phill Collins, Michael Schumacher lived (and some still live) on the shores of Lake Geneva. Even Vladimir Ilyich Lenin once rented housing here. Nowadays, government officials, elites, big businessmen, and generally “ordinary” people who have bank accounts with six or seven zeros like to relax and live here.
Well, a couple more photos of Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is the largest in Western Europe. If you look at it from above or on a map, the outline of the reservoir resembles a croissant. Its northern shore and two ends belong to Switzerland, and its southern shore belongs to France. The border between the two countries runs down the middle of the lake. The surface area of the lake is 582.4 sq. km, of which 348.4 sq. km. km in Switzerland and 234 sq. km in France. The maximum depth is 310 m in the Grand Lake between the cities and Evian. Due to its unique location at the crossroads of European transport routes, the presence of a modern international airport, developed infrastructure, a large number of historical attractions, exquisite cuisine, and favorable climate, this place is very attractive to tourists from all over the world.
Many famous people have chosen this place as their new home, including Audrey Hepburn, Freddie Mercury, Graham Greene, Charlie Chaplin, Vladimir Nabokov and many others.
Transport for tourists
Travelers will find it convenient to take a train or bus. In the summer of 2014, a new tariff was introduced - a day of travel, especially so that tourists could enjoy in all its splendor the beautiful Lavaux region, an area strewn with vineyards between Lausanne and.
During the day, the ticket allows you to make an unlimited number of trips within the region using local trains and buses. A nice bonus for passengers with such tickets will be a free glass of wine at some stops, discounts on excursions and a brochure, although only in French. It lists attractions and opening hours of wine cellars for tasting.
Nature of Lake Geneva
Situated in the heart of preserved nature between lakes and mountains, the Lake Geneva region () is a green paradise on Earth. Breathtaking mountain panoramas, countryside landscapes, recreational parks and medieval castles guarantee unforgettable experiences and incomparable moments of joy.
The Lake Geneva region boasts natural parks and reserves where flora and fauna are in complete peace. Botanical gardens in both cities and mountains are worth visiting.
La Pierreuse nature reserve is located in the foothills of the Alps. Occupies an area of 34 square meters. km. and includes several valleys dominated by calcareous rocks. Here you can find: ibex, chamois, marmots, bears, woodpeckers, owls, royal eagles, lynxes and black grouse.
Lake Geneva is home to perch, whitefish, trout, pike, burbot, roach, and crayfish. Grayling is endangered. A license is required for fishing. There are two types of fishing permits: lure license (annual only) and "a-la gambe" licenses (annual, monthly, weekly and daily). Without a license, fishing is permitted using a fishing rod with a float and a single hook. Youth (under 14 years of age) can fish without a license if they are accompanied by a permit holder.
The region is characterized by wild nature with a great abundance of subalpine vegetation, as well as traditional alpine meadows. The famous Alpine cheese Etivaz is produced here.
Sovabelin Park. Ideal for walks and picnics. Located near Lausanne, it offers visitors a wonderful view of the surrounding area from a high wooden tower. Oak forests surround the charming Lake Sauvabelles. It features a restaurant, a park with goats, ducks, woolly pigs, wild boars, geese and black swans. The park also boasts an authentic Swiss Chalet.
La Garenne Zoo in Les Vaux, specializes in European fauna, wild animals, birds of prey and the breeding of protected raptors. Open to visitors all year round.
Gastronomy and winemaking
The Lake Geneva region offers an endless variety of landscapes, breathtaking views and endless foodie options. Did you know that this part of Switzerland is among the most famous gastronomic regions in the world?A wide network of hiking trails criss-cross the impressive slopes of Lavaux and the terraced vineyards located between Lausanne and Chillon Castle.
The stunning beauty of Lavaux is a delight for the soul and attracts a large number of artists who settle in the small picturesque villages. Lavaux is part of the UNESCO World Heritage program. The mosaic vineyard areas attract many tourists in search of relaxation and tranquility.
Winemakers invite you to discover the exceptional and pristine beauty of the vineyards at any time of the year. Wine tours for individuals or groups are very popular.
The Lake Geneva region is prized by gourmets for its abundance of prestigious restaurants, diversity of national cuisine and its local high-quality products.
The gastronomic hit parade is shared by Philippe Rochat at Crissier and Bernard Ravé at VuffLens-le-Chateau, they are awarded 3 Michelin stars. Besides these two persons, there are about twenty young chefs scattered in the four corners of the canton. They masterfully and masterfully present inventive and daring cuisine, appreciated by GaultMillau.
On the shores of Lake Geneva you will be served a variety of fish dishes, sausage roasts, traditional pies, cheese dishes, and homemade cakes. All these dishes are accompanied by excellent local wines, in particular from Lavaux. In the canton of Vaud, the art of living goes hand in hand with fine dining.
Entertainment and relaxation
Tourists can enjoy cruises on ships, pleasure yachts, cycling routes, comfortable beaches with water sports.Hiking trails in the mountains, horseback riding, tennis courts and many other useful and exciting activities. You can improve your health and enjoy the thermal springs in spa centers, one of which is located near the main highway, next to the Rhone River in Valais. Easy access from Montreux and Lausanne, as well as the ski resort of the Valais Alps. Les Bains de Lavey is a spa whose owners claim they have the warmest thermal waters in Switzerland (children under 4 years old are not allowed in the complex at all).
Culture and heritage
The Lake Geneva region is a remarkable area steeped in centuries of history. And much of this history is still pleasing to the eye: Roman ruins, amphitheatres, fortresses, churches, monuments and about 200 archaeological sites.The remains of pile dwellings have been recorded in the waters of Lake Geneva, which became the second site in the UNESCO World Heritage program after the recognition of Lavaux in 2007.
Sights of Lausanne:
- Tower Al.
- Former episcopal palace.
- Castle of Saint-Mer.
- Church of St. Francis.
- Beaulieu Castle.
- Olympic Museum.
- Museum of the Hermitage Foundation.
- Museum of Archeology and History.
Sights of Geneva:
- Saint Paul's Cathedral.
- Wall of the Reformation.
- Museum of Fine Arts and History.
- Tavel House – City Museum.
- English park and flower clock.
- The Mont Blanc Bridge and the Geneva Fountain - the tallest fountain in the world, is a famous symbol of the city.
Events and festivals
When it comes to special events, the Lake Geneva region has a long tradition of cultural attractions and events that are fun and festive. Throughout the year, the region sways to the beat of major festivals and other events:- January – International Balloon Festival.
- April – Jazz Festival and International Film Festival.
- April – May – Tulip Festival.
- May and December – Ballet Festival.
- June – Grand opening of wine cellars.
- July – Jazz Festival, Opera Festival, Children's Festival.
- July – Music Festival.
- September – Art Festival.
- October – Lausanne Marathon.
- December – Christmas market.
Lake Geneva, France (France) - detailed description, location, reviews, photos and videos.
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The largest alpine lake, divided by the will of history between two countries, Geneva is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. Its northern shores belong to Switzerland, the southern shores belong to France, and they are separated by several kilometers of immaculately clear, deep blue water. Lake Geneva in France is patriotically called Lac Leman - and it actually consists of two reservoirs: Big and Small. Despite the fact that tourism in full swing is observed mainly on the Swiss coast, the French shores have also not remained aloof from the tourist boom. The most popular resort of the Republic of Thonon-les-Bains is not very well known on the Russian market, but its younger brother Evian annually receives a significant portion of domestic tourists.
How to get to Lake Geneva
The nearest airports to the lake are Geneva (40 km to Thonon) and Annecy (80 km). Annecy Airport receives mainly domestic and European low-cost airlines, as well as seasonal charters, while Geneva Airport receives flights from all over the world.
You can also arrive on the French shores of Lac Leman from its Swiss part. Transport links are provided by the Swiss Navigation Company Lac-Leman. The ferry journey from Geneva and Montreux will take about 45 minutes, from Lausanne - no more than half an hour. You can also travel by water between the French resorts of Lake Geneva - Thonon and Evian, for example, are located just 10 minutes away.
In summer, the air on Lake Geneva warms up to +25.. +28 °C, the water temperature in July and August is +22.. +24 °C, which is excellent for swimming.
Climate of the region
The resorts of Lake Geneva are subject to a temperate continental climate. Winters here are moderately mild, and summers are not too hot. The average winter temperature ranges from 0.. +10 °C. At the same time, it is quite chilly on the lake shores even with positive thermometer readings, the reason for which is increased air humidity and frequent piercing winds. In summer, the air on Lake Geneva warms up to +25.. +28 °C, the water temperature in July and August is +22.. +24 °C, which is excellent for swimming.
Lake Geneva and Evian
Resorts of the French part of Lake Geneva
Evian is the most popular resort among Russian tourists on the French shore of Lake Geneva, famous not only for a couple of dozen quality hotels and convenient beaches, but also for the mineral water of the same brand. The subject of increased interest among tourists here is one of the best spa complexes in Europe with the pompous but true name “Evian Royal Spa”. Among other things, drinking Evian water is indicated for a whole range of diseases, and the resort has “serious” clinics. Well, local attractions include the country house of the Lumière brothers, a theater, a casino, the ancient castle of Fontbonne, as well as the Pré-Curier Garden of Water reserve and the cable car to the mountain of the Chablais massif.
Thonon-les-Bains (or simply Thonon) is the largest resort in the French part of Lac-Leman. In addition to excellent conditions for wellness and beach holidays (more than twenty hotels, the ultra-modern spa complex “Valvital” and Versoix’s own thermal spring “included”), Thonon can offer tourists an incredible “excursion” in scope. The city was once the capital of the historical province of Chablais, owned by the Counts of Savoy, and has a considerable number of attractions, including the majestic castle of Ripail (the last antipope Amédée VIII once rested here) and the medieval Lang watchtower.
Saint-Gingolph is famous for its unique location - the city has one foot in Switzerland, the other in France, and the border between the two countries sometimes runs right along the streets of the city. The highlights of the destination are a magnificent beach (divided into Swiss and French parts) and a good excursion program. The beach of Saint-Gingolph is sandy, small, but with good infrastructure - cafes/restaurants, volleyball and petanque courts, water rescue service. Among the attractions are the historical quarters of the city, an 18th century church and the interesting Museum of Traditions and Navigation of Lac-Leman.
Although Yvoire cannot boast of healing mineral water, it does have a nice secluded beach. You can stay here in cozy private guest houses. Yvoire has an unusually long and rich history, traces of which can be found in the narrow streets of the historical city center, which, by the way, is included in the state List of the most beautiful villages in France. Activities include boat trips on Lake Geneva and the beautiful Vaudois Route cycling route to the fishing village of Nernier.
