🛶 The Best Spots for Paddleboarding and Kayaking in Switzerland

Complete Guide 2025 – Alpine Lakes, Lazy Rivers and Practical Regulations

Switzerland isn't just a paradise for hikers and skiers. In summer, its high-altitude lakes, clear rivers, and picture-postcard scenery make it one of the best countries in Europe for stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) and kayaking .

Whether you're looking for a relaxing sunrise stroll or a more sporty adventure, each region offers its own nautical gems.

Here's a selection of the 10 best places to paddleboard or kayak in Switzerland , ranked by natural beauty, accessibility, and atmosphere. You'll also find practical tips and guidelines.

📍 🛶 The Best Spots for Paddleboarding and Kayaking in Switzerland

1. Lake Geneva – from Geneva to Montreux

The largest lake in Western Europe is also one of the most accessible. Its calm waters and alpine panorama attract paddlers and kayakers on sunny days.

• In Geneva , the Eaux-Vives beach and the Perle du Lac offer direct access, ideal for beginners.

• In Montreux , the departure from the quays allows you to sail between swans, mountains and castles.

• In Villeneuve , the water is calmer and the setting wilder.

💡 Tip: Early morning is the best time, before the thermal wind picks up.

See the full article: " 🛶 Where to paddleboard on Lake Geneva? Best spots and rentals from Geneva to Montreux"

2. Lake Neuchâtel – Estavayer-le-Lac and Yverdon-les-Bains

Wilder and less touristy than Lake Geneva, this lake is perfect for immersing yourself in nature.

• Estavayer-le-Lac offers a very well-equipped nautical area, with equipment rental, showers and supervised beaches.

• Yverdon is quieter, with a long shoreline perfect for a leisurely stroll.

• Cheyres , a small, unspoiled corner, is ideal for lovers of silence.

The lake is bordered by reed beds and protected areas—perfect for wildlife viewing, but be careful not to enter with your boat.

See the full article: " Where to go Paddleboarding or Kayaking on Lake Neuchâtel – Spots, Rentals and Tips 2025 🛶"

3. Lake Lucerne – Lucerne and Weggis

Surrounded by mountains, this lake offers an immersive experience between raw nature and Swiss culture.

• Lucerne is a good starting point, with the city as a backdrop.

• Weggis and Vitznau offer a more peaceful setting, with public beaches for easy entry into the water.

• The water is often crystal clear, and sailing is smooth, except on windy afternoons.

This lake is deeper than the others, so the water stays cooler.

4. Lake Biel – Nature and History

Less well-known but very popular with locals, Lake Biel allows you to combine sport and culture.

• Nidau offers an easy access ramp for kayaks or paddleboards.

• A trip to St-Pierre Island is magical: you paddle between reed beds and forests, in an almost meditative atmosphere.

• The lake is relatively calm, with few motorboats.

Perfect for a day trip with a picnic on the island.

5. Lake Zurich – Mythenquai and Rapperswil

Very urban but well-equipped, Lake Zurich is convenient for a quick outing or a sporty after-work experience.

• Mythenquai , a stone's throw from the city center, offers a well-equipped paddle boarding area.

• Rapperswil , further south, offers walks around the peninsula and small bays.

Although very busy in summer, it remains pleasant early in the morning or in the evening. Easy to access by public transport.

6. Lake Thun – Turquoise waters and mountains

This alpine lake seduces with its intense colors and postcard landscapes.

• Spiez and Faulensee are the best starting points.

• The water is colder, but the visibility is incredible—you can often see down to several meters.

• It is also a perfect spot for combining paddleboarding and swimming.

Best in calm weather, as the wind can pick up quickly.

7. River Aare – Gentle descent between Thun and Bern

Kayaking down the Aare (or even paddleboarding for the more experienced) is a typically Swiss experience.

• The current is moderate, making navigation easy and pleasant.

• Starting from Thun , we gently descend towards Bern , enjoying the landscapes and natural beaches.

• There are many areas where you can take a swimming break.

Caution: In case of heavy rain or flooding, the river can become dangerous.

8. Reuss River – Between Bremgarten and Mellingen

Less well-known but very charming, this section of the Reuss is perfect for a getaway of a few hours.

• Launching is easy at Bremgarten , with several picturesque bridges and green banks.

• The current is gentle, except after the snow melts.

• Very few boats, you are often alone on the water.

Be careful to plan your outing carefully to avoid paddling against the current.

9. Lake Brienz – The turquoise jewel of the Oberland

Certainly one of the most beautiful lakes in Switzerland.

• Iseltwald is an iconic starting point (popularized by Netflix series).

• Brienz is quieter and more authentic, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The water is icy even in summer, but the blue-green color is unique. Only suitable in good weather.

10. Lake Lugano – Paddle with a taste of Italy

This lake, straddling Switzerland and Italy, offers a unique atmosphere.

• Lugano offers easy access to the water from several public beaches.

• Heading towards Morcote , you will discover colorful villages, churches on the waterfront and Mediterranean vegetation.

The water temperature is pleasant from June onwards, ideal for extended getaways.

🛶 The Best Spots for Paddleboarding and Kayaking in Switzerland

⚖️ Regulations: what you need to know

• No license required for paddleboards and kayaks less than 15 meters without motor

• Life jacket required if you go more than 300 meters from the shore

• Prohibition of navigation in certain protected areas (nature reserves, nesting areas)

• Night activities are prohibited without specific lighting equipment.

  
  

🧭 Practical advice

• Always check the weather and wind before leaving

• Avoid windy afternoons on large lakes

• Bring: vest, water, cap, sunscreen, waterproof phone

• Respect the flora and fauna – do not touch the nests, do not throw anything into the water

• Prefer off-peak hours (before 9am or after 5pm) for a better experience

  
  

Whether you're in the city or in the mountains, Switzerland offers an incredible variety of spots for paddleboarding or kayaking. With a little preparation and respect for nature, every outing becomes an adventure combining sport, well-being, and contemplation.

❓ FAQ – Paddle, Kayak and Water Sports in Switzerland 🇨🇭

Everything tourists need to know, canton by canton

🏄♀️ What water sports can you practice in French-speaking and German-speaking Switzerland?

In Switzerland, lakes and rivers offer a wide variety of water sports, most of which are accessible without a license:

• Paddle (stand up paddle) – very popular on the lakes of Vaud, Geneva, Zurich, Lucerne

• Recreational or river kayaking – particularly in the cantons of Bern , Uri , Valais

• Canoeing – for families, very popular on Lake Neuchâtel

• Windsurfing , kitesurfing , water skiing – permitted in certain areas with specific conditions

The most popular destinations are Lake Geneva , Neuchâtel , Biel , Brienz , Zug and Lugano .

🛶 Do you need a license to paddleboard or kayak in Switzerland?

No. For boats without a motor and less than 15 metres long , no permit is required, whether you are in French-speaking Switzerland , German-speaking Switzerland or Ticino .

This applies to:

• Rigid or inflatable paddles

• Sea or river kayaks

• Recreational canoes

⚠️ Navigable waters are however regulated by canton , so you should always check local prohibitions (protected areas, flood conditions, etc.).

🦺 Is a life jacket mandatory in Switzerland?

Yes, federal law requires everyone on board to have a life jacket if they go more than 300 meters from shore .

Examples:

• On Lake Geneva (Vaud or Geneva side) , this distance can be reached quickly

• On smaller lakes like Gruyère (Fribourg) or Sils (Grisons) , we often stay close to the banks

Even for good swimmers, wearing a life jacket is strongly recommended for safety reasons.

🌊 Where are the best places to paddleboard or kayak in Switzerland?

Here are some popular spots by canton or region :

French-speaking Switzerland:

• Canton of Vaud : Yverdon-les-Bains, Lutry, Villeneuve (Lake Geneva, Neuchâtel)

• Geneva : Eaux-Vives, Pearl of the Lake (Lake Geneva)

• Fribourg : Cheyres, Estavayer-le-Lac (Lake Neuchâtel)

• Valais : Le Bouveret, Lake Champex, Lake Géronde

  
  

German-speaking Switzerland:

• Zurich : Mythenquai, Rapperswil (Lake Zurich)

• Lucerne : Tribschen, Weggis, Vitznau (Lake Lucerne)

• Bern : Spiez, Faulensee (Lake Thun), kayaking on the Aare between Thun and Bern

• Grisons : Lake Sils, Lake Cauma

• Appenzell / St. Gallen : Lake Constance

  
  

Ticino:

• Lugano , Morcote , Gandria on Lake Lugano: Mediterranean atmosphere

🧭 Can you paddleboard on rivers in Switzerland?

Yes, but only on certain authorized sections. The most well-known are:

• Aar (BE) : very popular between Thun and Bern (accessible by train)

• Reuss (AG/LU) : beautiful descent between Bremgarten and Mellingen

• Rhine (SH/TG) : navigation possible between Stein am Rhein and Schaffhausen

❗ Swiss rivers can be dangerous after snowmelt or during flooding. Check the cantonal hydrological forecast before heading out.

🏞️ Are water sports allowed in nature reserves?

No. Navigation is strictly prohibited in:

• Protected areas , particularly around reed beds

• Bird reserves (marked by orange buoys or signs)

This applies to lakes such as:

• Lake Biel (area around St. Peter's Island)

• Lake Neuchâtel (south shore towards Yvonand)

• Greifensee Lake (ZH) : partially closed area

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📍 Where can you rent a paddleboard or kayak in Switzerland?

In each tourist region, there are rental points:

• Estavayer-le-Lac , Montreux , Lucerne , Zurich , Lugano , etc.

• Rentals available at public beaches , marinas , or via certain partner CFF stations

• Some cities (Geneva, Lausanne) offer self-service paddleboards with QR codes

💡 Tip: During high season, remember to book in advance, especially around the large lakes.

🌤️ When is the best time to practice water sports in Switzerland?

The high season is from June to September , with temperate water, little wind in the morning, and many open facilities.

By region:

• In French-speaking Switzerland , the lakes are swimmable from mid-June

• In central and eastern Switzerland , the water is often colder but very clear.

• In Ticino , the season starts earlier, at the end of May.

  
  

🧼 What responsible actions should be taken in a lake or river?

To protect Swiss ecosystems:

• Do not throw anything into the water (neither bottles nor food)

• Do not paddle in reeds or spawning areas

• Stay discreet near bird or amphibian colonies

• Prefer sunscreens without nanoparticles

Some cantons, such as Vaud , offer “ clean lake ” or “ responsible paddle ” programs: ask at the local tourist office.