Mellières Beach in Buchillon: a natural swim by Lake Geneva

A wild beach by Lake Geneva, just a stone's throw from the forest

Nestled in Buchillon, between Morges and Rolle, Plage des Mellières is one of those corners of Lake Geneva that you wish to keep to yourself. Here, there is no concrete or crowds: a strip of grass and pebbles borders the lake, backed by the nearby forest. People come to relax in the shade of the trees, spread out their towels on the grass, and listen to the gentle lapping of the water. On clear days, the gaze drifts towards the Alps and the Dents du Midi. It is a public beach that is completely free, set in a green setting that exudes calm. Ideal for a family outing where children splash around while parents unwind.

What your children will discover

The Mellières is primarily the freedom to play outside by the water. Children gently enter Lake Geneva from the pebble shore, collect stones, look for small fish, and build their dams. The grassy area set back offers a safe playground for running, throwing a ball, or picnicking. The forested setting adds a true nature dimension: you can observe the birds, seek shade under the trees, and breathe. It’s a simple and refreshing break, far from screens.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The atmosphere is family-friendly and relaxed, without the hustle and bustle of large developed beaches. People swim, sunbathe on the grass, have a quick lunch, and enjoy the scenery. The grassy and shaded area is precious on hot days: you can easily set up your camp for the day out of the sun. Water sports enthusiasts sometimes bring a paddleboard. It’s a place where you take your time, perfect for a quiet half-day with family by the lake.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 2 years old, under constant supervision near the water; no upper limit.
• Duration: half a day to a full day.
• Price: free, public beach.
• Reservation: none, free access.
• Accessibility for strollers/PRM: natural terrain (grass and pebbles); a large parking lot at the entrance facilitates arrival, but the pebble shore remains uneven (to be confirmed for PRM access).
• Transport: large parking lot at the entrance; by bus, stop “Buchillon, collège” then a short walk.
• What to bring: water shoes (pebbles), sunshade or search for shade, picnic, water, sunscreen, trash bag.
• Ideal season: summer. The swimming area is open from June 1 to August 31, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Parents' tips

• Bring water shoes: the entrance is on pebbles, more comfortable with protected feet.
• Aim to arrive early in the day to enjoy parking spots and the most sought-after shady spots.
• Settle on the shaded lawn on hot days: it’s one of the advantages of the place.
• Keep young children within reach by the water, as the shore slopes down towards the lake.
• Bring picnic supplies: there is no refreshment stand on site (to be confirmed).

Useful information

• Address: Route de Chanivaz, 1164 Buchillon (Vaud)
• Official website: buchillon.ch/plages
• Hours: swimming area open from June 1 to August 31, 8:00 AM–11:00 PM
• Access: large parking lot at the entrance; by bus to the stop “Buchillon, collège,” then a few minutes on foot. Restrooms on site; dogs allowed on a leash; fires and camping prohibited.

Want more outings? Find all our activities in Buchillon.

Why we recommend it

Because it’s a true nature beach, free and public, less than thirty minutes from Lausanne. We love its wooded setting, shaded grass, and peaceful atmosphere, a world away from crowded beaches. For a simple and refreshing swim with family on La Côte, the Mellières ticks all the boxes.

In two words

A public and free beach on Lake Geneva in Buchillon, set in a green setting: peaceful swimming, picnicking, and relaxation with family in the heart of La Côte.