Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) is the largest lake in the Alps and in Western Europe. It sits on the border between Switzerland and France, and its French shore, around Féternes, Évian-les-Bains and Thonon-les-Bains in Haute-Savoie, forms the southern side below the Chablais mountains.

How big is Lake Geneva?

The surface covers roughly 580 km², of which about 235 km² belongs to France and 345 km² to Switzerland. The lake stretches around 72 km in length and up to 13.8 km across. Its deepest point, about 310 m, lies between Évian and Ouchy (Lausanne); the average depth is around 152 m. It holds about 89 km³ of water, and the surface sits near 372 m above sea level, with the level managed within a narrow band.

What is there to see on the French side?

The south shore is a string of spa towns and harbours. Évian-les-Bains is known for belle époque villas, terraced gardens and a lakeside promenade. Thonon-les-Bains, the capital of the Chablais, has a port, waterfront paths and a view across to Lausanne and Ouchy. From the slopes above the shore, including the Féternes area, clear days reveal the water and the Swiss hills opposite. To the west lies Yvoire, a medieval village on the water and a favourite stop on day cruises.

How do you get there and get around?

The French shore is reached by car or bus from Geneva; the train no longer runs between Évian and Saint-Gingolph, so that stretch needs a bus. Boats of the Swiss operator CGN cross the lake: year-round services link Lausanne with Évian (line N1) and with Thonon (N2), and a separate line runs Yvoire to Nyon. Winter timetables are thinner. Excursion cruises also call at Yvoire and Saint-Gingolph, and some 45-minute cruises from Évian show the villas and gardens from the water.

When should you visit?

Late spring, summer and early autumn suit swimming, sailing and promenade walks, and the full boat timetable runs then. In winter the shore is quiet, snowy Alps frame the view, and fewer sailings operate.

Frequently asked questions

Is Lake Geneva in France or Switzerland?

Both. The north shore with Lausanne, Vevey and Geneva is Swiss; the south shore with Évian and Thonon is French.

How deep is it?

Up to about 310 m, averaging around 152 m.

Can I cross the lake by boat?

Yes. CGN boats connect Lausanne with Évian and Thonon, and Yvoire with Nyon.

Where should I stay on the French side?

Évian-les-Bains and Thonon-les-Bains have the best boat links, harbours and promenades; Féternes offers a quieter base close to both.