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Swimming in the lake · Genebra, Genebra
Bains des Pâquis
Public bathing facility on stilts in the lake, on the right bank, with a beach, lake pools, a sauna, hammam and a buvette. It operates year-round and is a meeting point for locals.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Bains des Pâquis
The Bains des Pâquis are on a breakwater on the right bank, facing the Jet d'Eau. The first baths, made of wood, date from 1872. In 1931 and 1932 the city rebuilt everything in concrete, in a low, simple building supported on hundreds of piles in the lake.
At the end of the 1980s, a project proposed demolishing the bathing site. Regulars created an association, and in 1988 the public voted to keep the baths. After the renovation, the association began keeping the place open year-round.
In the European summer, from June to August, there is sunbathing on the decks and swimming in the lake water, which is usually cool. In winter, locals use the sauna, the Turkish bath and the hammam, and many alternate the heat with quick dips in the icy lake.
The buvette, a simple café on the breakwater, serves meals from breakfast to dinner, and in winter is known for its fondue. At the tip stands the Pâquis lighthouse, from 1894. The place also hosts dawn concerts in summer, readings and exhibitions.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One hour for a coffee and the view; half a day for swimming in the lake or the sauna.
Best time
In the European summer, early in the morning or late in the afternoon, outside peak hours. In winter, the sauna and the fondue at the buvette are the local choice. On sunny weekends the place fills up.
How to get there
It is on Quai du Mont-Blanc, about a 10-minute walk from Genève Cornavin, descending through the Pâquis neighborhood.
Tip
Bring swimwear and a towel even in winter if you want to try the sauna. The sauna and Turkish bath have specific schedules and rules: check them on site before entering.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Bains des Pâquis
Can you swim in the lake in Genebra?
Yes. The Bains des Pâquis provide lake access with decks and ladders. In the European summer the water tends to be cool; in winter, only for those used to the cold.
Do the Bains des Pâquis open in winter?
Yes, they operate year-round. In winter the highlight is the sauna, Turkish bath and hammam.
Is there a place to eat at the Bains des Pâquis?
Yes. The buvette serves simple meals throughout the day and, in winter, fondue.