Lac des Vernes - Meyrin

A Nature Break by the Water

Just a stone's throw from Meyrin and Geneva, Lake Vernes offers a green space where one can breathe. This small lake, the only one entirely located in the canton of Geneva, was developed in 2017 to regulate rainwater. But it has also become a true refuge for wildlife and flora, and an ideal spot for a peaceful family stroll.

What Your Children Will Discover

The tour around the lake is done on foot, in tranquility, and each season brings its surprises. Reeds swaying, reflections in the water, birds singing: there is always something to point out.

• Water birds to observe from the piers and designated viewpoints
• Dragonflies, butterflies, and frogs around the shores in spring and summer
• A rich vegetation that changes colors throughout the year
• An educational trail to understand, while having fun, how this small ecosystem lives

What to Do There and the Atmosphere on Site

The atmosphere is peaceful: people come here to slow down. One walks around the lake at their own pace, stops on a pier to watch for a heron, and sets up a picnic in a relaxation area. It’s a perfect place for a first nature outing with little ones as well as to introduce older children to birdwatching. However, be careful: swimming is not allowed, the lake remains a protected area.

Before You Go

• Recommended age: from 3 years old, enjoyable at any age
• Duration: plan for 30 to 60 minutes for a leisurely tour, more if you take the time to observe
• Reservation: none, free access
• Stroller: the flat paths along the lake are suitable for a stroll with a stroller
• Transport: accessible by TPG tram (direction Meyrin); check the nearest stop and schedule on the TPG website
• To bring: good shoes, water, and perhaps binoculars for birdwatching
• Ideal season: pleasant year-round; spring and summer are the most vibrant for wildlife

Parents' Tips

• Bring a small pair of binoculars: children love spotting the birds themselves
• Slip in a notebook and crayons to draw what you see
• Remind children to stay on the paths to respect wildlife and not disturb nesting
• Plan a snack to share in a relaxation area, facing the water

Useful Information

• Address: Avenue Louis-Rendu 7, 1217 Meyrin (canton of Geneva)
• Official website: see the Lake Vernes page on the Meyrin municipality website (meyrin.ch)
• Hours: free access; check the official website for any updated information
• Access: by TPG tram direction Meyrin, or on foot/by bike from the center of Meyrin; check the lines and stops on the TPG website

Why We Recommend It

Because it’s a simple, free, and accessible nature outing, within reach of public transport. In an hour, your children go from concrete to reeds, observe real wildlife, and leave with images in their heads. It’s hard to find a more refreshing experience so close to the city.

In Two Words

A small lake, a big breath of fresh air. Lake Vernes is the perfect place for a calm family walk, rhythmically accompanied by birds and the seasons.