Urban Swimming In Geneva
A swim with a view of a 140m high fountain spurting skywards and grand hotels along the waterfront. I could only be in Geneva, the city that gives urban swimming a bit of chic.
Not because it sits at the tip of one of Europe's largest lakes, but thanks to the Bains des Pâquis, the top spot for swimming in Geneva. It isn't that big or that posh, but it's the place to be in summer.
It's all about the view, both of the city and your fellow swimmers – this is prime see-and-be-seen territory for everyone, and entry is only about £1.50. This is city swimming with style.
The Bains des Pâquis have been an institution since 1872, though the current art deco incarnation dates from the 30s. What makes them unusual is their location, built on a long breakwater stretching out into the lake.
The Bains des Pâquis have been an institution since 1872, though the current art deco incarnation dates from the 30s. What makes them unusual is their location, built on a long breakwater stretching out into the lake.
That gives them enough space for some purpose-built pools, sunbathing decks, a cafe and a small beach for lake swimming. When it gets very busy, people overflow on to the rocks of the breakwater, basking in the sun like a herd of sea lions. [source]
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