Bécassine Park Beach: family swimming by Lake Geneva in Versoix

A free and calming corner of Lake Geneva in Versoix

Nestled at the mouth of the Versoix, in the park of the Institut Forel, the Parc de la Bécassine is one of the best-kept secrets of the Geneva right bank. Developed by the State of Geneva in 2010 as part of the river's renaturation, this pebble beach opens directly onto Lake Geneva, with the park's large trees in the background. People come here for simplicity: laying down their towel on the grass, letting the children explore the water's edge, and taking a breather away from the hustle and bustle. Entrance is completely free, making it an ideal outing to repeat all summer without breaking the bank. Just a stone's throw from the Versoix train station, it's the easy lakeside getaway that many families seek.

What your children will discover

Your children will discover a true natural playground by the lake here. The pebble beach invites them to search for the prettiest stones, skip stones, and observe water birds, in a setting where the river meets Lake Geneva. The grassy area bordered by large trees provides space to run, play ball, or picnic in the shade when the sun is shining. It's a place where they can gently learn to tame the water, wading at the edge and, for the older ones, swimming out deeper. A simple day, but rich in little discoveries.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The atmosphere at Parc de la Bécassine is family-friendly and relaxed, far from the crowded beaches. People spend the day alternating between swimming, playing on the grass, and taking snack breaks under the trees. The pebble beach slopes gently down, and the green setting of the park invites you to spread out a blanket and take your time. It's a place cherished by the residents of Versoix and the surrounding area for its tranquility. Good to know: swimming is unsupervised, and dogs are prohibited, which preserves the peace for families.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 2 years old (toddlers stay at the edge, under close supervision).
• Duration: half a day to a full day.
• Price: free, open access.
• Reservation: none, free access.
• Stroller/PRM accessibility: to be confirmed (pebble beach and park; check with the City of Versoix).
• Transport: a few minutes from the CFF train station in Versoix; bus to the entrance of Versoix; parking nearby.
• What to bring: sunscreen, hats, water shoes (pebbles), towels, water, and a picnic.
• Ideal season: from mid-May to mid-September, in good weather.

Parents' tips

• Bring water shoes: the beach is made of pebbles, more comfortable for little feet.
• Set up early near the trees to enjoy the shade during the hottest hours.
• As swimming is unsupervised, always keep an eye on the children at the water's edge.
• Bring your picnic and water: check on-site for the presence of a refreshment stand (to be confirmed).
• Leave the dog at home: they are prohibited on site.

Useful information

• Address: Route de Suisse 10, 1290 Versoix (park of the Institut Forel, mouth of the Versoix).
• Official site: Ville de Versoix — Plage de la Bécassine.
• Hours: access generally allowed from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, beach open from mid-May to mid-September (hours to be confirmed on the official site).
• Access: a few minutes from the CFF train station in Versoix; bus to the entrance of Versoix; parking nearby; restrooms on site.

Looking for more outings? Find all our activities in Versoix.

Why we recommend it

We love Parc de la Bécassine for what it offers without any strings attached: a free beach, a green setting, and easy access to Lake Geneva, all in a peaceful atmosphere. It's the kind of place you return to regularly because it ticks all the boxes for a successful and stress-free family outing: nature, swimming, shade, and tranquility.

In two words

A free and calming pebble beach by Lake Geneva, ideal for a family day in Versoix, from mid-May to mid-September.