Vaud celebrates the water that defines the Swiss Canton in Western Switzerland this summer from the majestic Lake Geneva (lac Léman) that stretches along its southern shore to smaller lakes and rivers. The region has a rich history of celebrating water, with notable landmarks like the Fontaine de la Justice in Lausanne and the Fontaine Saint-Martin in Vevey.
This summer is an opportunity to reconnect with water through activities like swimming on sandy beaches, boating, and enjoying the swimming pools in the area. Locals and visitors alike stay cool during the summer by visiting lakeside beaches in cities such as Lausanne, Vevey, and Montreux.
Built in 1937, the Bellerive-Plage swimming pool has an ideal location by the lake, with three large pools, one with a ten-meter diving board. Préverenges, near Morges, has a pedal boat, boat, canoe, kayak hire, and the “L’Oued” refreshment bar. You can also head to Les Marines in Villeneuve, Le Pierrier in Clarens, or Rivaz Plage in Lavaux. Kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddling, and fishing are great ways to enjoy the area.
There are also lakeside parks, like Jardin Doret in Vevey, with its playground, beach volleyball court, and ping-pong tables.
In Villars-Gryon, there’s Frience, with three pools and a giant zipline. There’s also canyoning on the l’Hongrin Gorges for those with a daredevil spirit. Further afield, Vallée de Joux offers Lake Joux, the largest expanse of water in the entire Jura massif, and Lake Brenet.
On rainy days, water is still the main attraction. The Musée du Léman in Nyon reveals the secrets of Europe’s largest lake, with five aquariums and a display of the journeys of the Piccard family. Near Morges is La Maison de la Rivière, which has the F.A. Forel submarine built by the team of Jacques Piccard. In Lausanne, Aquatis is a significant attraction, the largest freshwater aquarium in Europe.
