Enjoying the Lakes of Switzerland

The larger lakes in Switzerland are wide expanses of crystal blue water where you will find charming cities and villages along the shores, and beautiful scenery in all four seasons.

Lake Geneva

The most famous lake in Switzerland is Lake Geneva which is the largest lake in Central Europe. This huge lake borders two countries, Switzerland in the north and France to the south. The shoreline offers magnificent views from thick forests down to the waterfront and snow-capped mountains rising majestically around the lakes and of course the rivers and streams that flow into it.

Along with the many towns and cities along the shoreline there are also scores of beautiful residences dotting the slopes. These local homes range from rustic chalets clustered into little hamlets to amazing stone castles that give you a glimpse into the past, making Lake Geneva one of the biggest tourists attractions in the country. Despite the large numbers of tourists however, there are areas on the lake where things are quiet and serene.

Lake Geneva has over 60 beaches with lots of picnic areas and trails where you can hike and enjoy the beauty of nature. There are lots of activities for singles, couples or families at every fitness level. You will find lakeside meadows for a leisurely stroll and strenuous hiking trails overlooking the water. For water sports there are many areas for swimming and even scuba diving in designated areas of the lake.

Lake Lucerne & Lago di Lugano

Next to Lake Geneva, Lake Lucerne is another popular destination for tourists. This charming body of water has the dramatic views and is also famous for the legend of William Tell. This part of the country is more rural with country villages dotting the lake shore. Many of theses villages depend on the water for transport so during the winter, snow covers the roads and isolates these communities. So to keep the locals from starving the Lucerne and Geneva ferry services maintain service in the winter.

Closer to the Italian border you find Lago di Lugano. This area has a slightly warmer climate with excellent views of Switzerland’s more rural areas. It is also home to the village of Campione d’Italia, the only village on the lake that chose to remain Italian in 1798 while every other town around became Swiss. Here you will find a mix of Swiss and Italian cultures. Italian dialect is dominant, Swiss plates on the cars, the lire and the mark are everywhere creating a charming social mix.

White Water and Boat Cruises

Most of the rivers in Switzerland run wild with white water which is perfect for those who love the thrill of rafting. If you prefer a more serene way to pass the time there are a few areas where you will find riverboat cruise. Look up the Rhone river just west of Genevem and the Aare river northeast of Biel and you will find river boat cruises offered. One of the most enchanting is a boat trip along the Rhine from Konstanz to the falls at Schaffhausen.

If you end up in Montreux situated on Lake Geneva you could take a dinner cruise on the lake. If you do that, be sure to stop in to the Golf Hotel Rene Capt. As a guest there you are given free bicycles for exploring the area and passes for deep discounts for many of the activities in the area. Discounts include things like train fare, dinner cruises on the lake and local winery tours.

For more information call +41 (0) 21-966-25-25