🛶 Where to paddle on Lake Geneva? The best spots and rentals from Geneva to Montreux
- Jul 3
- 4 min read
Are you looking for the best places to paddle or kayak on Lake Geneva ? From Geneva to Montreux, this guide takes you on a journey to the most beautiful spots on Western Europe's largest lake. It includes rental locations, ideal conditions , and practical tips for a successful trip—whether you're a beginner or an avid water sports enthusiast.
📍 The best spots for paddling on Lake Geneva
🛶 Where to paddle on Lake Geneva? The best spots and rentals from Geneva to Montreux
🌅 1. Geneva – Eaux-Vives Beach & Tropical Corner
Geneva is the ideal starting point for paddleboarding. Just a stone's throw from the city center , the beaches of Eaux-Vives and Baby-Plage offer calm waters—perfect for beginners.
📌 Recommended location:
Tropical Corner (Geneva-Plage Beach) → tropicalcorner.ch → Paddling, kayaking, big SUP – lessons and guided excursions → Approximately CHF 25/hour
💡 Tip: Paddle towards Jet d'eau or Perle du Lac and enjoy an unforgettable view of the Alps and Mont Blanc.
🏞️ 2. Nyon – Between beach and castle
Nyon , just a 20-minute train ride from Geneva, offers a quieter setting. The city beach offers easy access to the water and beautiful views of the French Alps and the Vaud vineyards.
📌 Location:
Swisspaddle (Nyon Plage) → swisspaddle.ch → Paddling, guided tours → 20 CHF/h , family or group packages
🌊 3. Lausanne – Vidy and Ouchy
On the Lausanne side, the Vidy and Ouchy spots are perfect for urban paddling enthusiasts, with easy departures from public beaches and numerous facilities nearby.
📌 Location:
Léman Loisirs – Ouchy → lemanloisirs.ch → Paddling, kayaking, paddle yoga → From 22 CHF/h
💡 Vidy is often quieter than the port of Ouchy. The ideal departure time is before 10 a.m.
🎶 4. Montreux – Gliding between mountains and music
Paddling in Montreux means sailing between the Chablais mountains , the swans of the lake , and the walls of Chillon Castle . The panorama is breathtaking.
📌 Location:
Paddle Center Montreux – Quai de Vernex → paddlecenter.ch → Paddling, Kayak Solo & Double → 25 CHF/h – 2h or day packages
💡 Ideal to end the day, with sunset over the Valais peaks.
🍃 5. Villeneuve – Wild nature and absolute tranquility
At the eastern end of the lake, Villeneuve enchants with its wilder atmosphere. Less crowded than the big cities, it's a dream place to recharge your batteries by the water.
📌 Location:
Le Salève Nautique / Villeneuve Leisure Center → Rental on site – paddles and kayaks → approx. CHF 20/h
💡 Take a walk to the Rhône estuary or towards the island of Peilz for a more contemplative excursion.
📊 Comparison table of paddling spots & rentals on Lake Geneva
🛶 Where to paddle on Lake Geneva? The best spots and rentals from Geneva to Montreux
🌍 Location | ✅ Recommended place | 🛶 Tenant | 💰 Average price | 🔗 Website / Contact |
Geneva | Whitewater, Tropical Corner | Tropical Corner | ~25 CHF/h | |
Nyon | Municipal Beach | Swisspaddle | ~20 CHF/h | |
Lausanne | Ouchy, Vidy | Leisure on Lake Geneva | ~22 CHF/h | |
Montreux | Vernex Quay, Chillon | Paddling Center | ~25 CHF/h | |
Villeneuve | Rhone estuary | Local base | ~20 CHF/h | On site / Google Maps |
Paddling or kayaking on Lake Geneva combines sport, relaxation, and magnificent scenery , whether you're in Geneva or Villeneuve. Local clubs provide all the equipment , with or without a guide, to safely enjoy this natural gem. 🌊
❓ FAQ – Paddling & Kayaking on Lake Geneva
🔍 Where can you rent a paddleboard on Lake Geneva?
🛶 Paddle boat rentals are available in several cities: Geneva (Tropical Corner), Lausanne (Léman Loisirs in Ouchy), Nyon (Swisspaddle), Montreux (Paddle Center), and Villeneuve. Early booking is recommended during peak season.
📍 What are the best spots for paddleboarding on Lake Geneva?
✨ Among the most popular are the beaches of Eaux-Vives (Geneva), Ouchy (Lausanne), the quays of Montreux, and the wilderness of Villeneuve. The Alpine panorama and calm waters make it an ideal place for paddling.
🕓 When is the best time of day to paddle on Lake Geneva?
🌅 The best time to go is between 7 and 10 a.m.: the water is calm, the light is beautiful, and the wind is still light. In the afternoon, thermal winds can make navigation difficult.
👨👩👧 Is paddleboarding suitable for children or beginners?
👍 Yes! Many water sports centers rent sturdy equipment, children's life jackets, and offer safe boarding areas. Some cities (Geneva, Lausanne, etc.) also offer introductory courses.
💶 How much does it cost to rent a paddleboard on Lake Geneva?
💰 Prices range from CHF 20 to CHF 30 per hour , depending on the club. Some offer half-day or weekly packages, as well as discounts for families or groups.
🚣♂️ Can you kayak on Lake Geneva?
✅ Yes, kayaking is permitted and popular on Lake Geneva. Kayaks can be rented at the same locations as paddleboards. It's a great option for longer trips or excursions for two.
📵 Should you book your paddleboard on Lake Geneva in advance?
📲 In summer or on sunny weekends, reservations are highly recommended, especially in Geneva, Lausanne, and Montreux. Clubs often offer online or phone reservations.
🌊 Do you need a permit to paddle on Lake Geneva?
📝 No, a permit is not required for paddleboards and non-motorized kayaks as long as the boat is less than 15 meters long. However, life jackets are mandatory within 300 meters of shore.
🦺 Is a life jacket mandatory on Lake Geneva?
👕 Yes, it's mandatory if you venture further than 300 meters from the shore, and it's also highly recommended on the shore. Clubs usually provide them for rental.
🚫 Can you paddleboard anywhere on Lake Geneva?
⚠️ Certain areas are closed to traffic (port areas, nature reserves, motorized vehicles). Keep a safe distance from cruise ships and check with the charter company before departure.
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