Parc du port Choiseul

Parc du port Choiseul is a small lakeside park in Versoix, in the canton of Geneva. It covers roughly 0.6 hectares at Chemin des Graviers 35 and ranks among the larger green spaces in town. It sits beside the Port-Choiseul marina, so a stroll on the lawns comes with views of moored boats, jetties and open water on Lake Geneva.

What is there to see?

The park offers grassy areas with benches facing the water. Next door is the marina's pebble beach, and a lakeside promenade runs along the shore with continuous views across the lake. According to the canton, the harbour has more than 700 leisure moorings, making it the second largest in the canton after Eaux-Vives. Three places to eat and drink operate nearby, including a seasonal buvette linked to the local sailing club. A ramp at the beach lets visitors with reduced mobility enter the water, an uncommon feature on this side of the lake.

What is the history of Port-Choiseul?

The name honours the Duke of Choiseul, minister to Louis XV. Around 1766–1770 a fortified trading town with a harbour was planned here to capture traffic between Geneva and Bern, and Voltaire championed the idea. More than a thousand workers gathered on site in 1770, but Choiseul's fall from favour that December left the scheme without its patron and unfinished. Stone from the old works was later reused for quays at Versoix and Cologny (1886–1888). The present harbour dates from a 1962–1963 reconstruction as a pleasure-boat marina.

How do you get there?

Versoix lies north of Geneva on the lakeside rail line. From Versoix station, walk downhill toward the shore; the marina is a short walk of around fifteen minutes. From the park you can follow the waterfront path toward the town centre.

When is the best time to visit?

Late spring to early autumn, when the beach and buvette are active and swimming is possible. Outside the season it works well for a short walk with lake views and, in clear weather, distant mountains.

What else can you do nearby?

The marina draws sailors, kayakers and pedalo fans. Families use the beach, while others settle for a coffee by the water. The commune has discussed further redevelopment of the shoreline, including the grassy La Grève area, so the surroundings may change over time.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry free? Yes. The park is public, and local listings describe the neighbouring beach as free too.

Can you swim? Yes, at the marina's pebble beach, which has a ramp into the water. Swimming is at your own risk.

Is there food nearby? Yes. Three eateries operate around the harbour, including a beach buvette.

Is it suitable for families? Yes. Lawns, a beach and short distances make it easy with children.