Plage du Pierrier in Montreux: the large free beach of the Riviera, with family

A large free beach by Lake Geneva, in Clarens

The Plage du Pierrier is the seaside address of Montreux. Located in Clarens, on the shores of Lake Geneva, it features a vast expanse of fine sand and a large grassy area with trees facing the Alps. Families come here for the day, towel under their arm, because everything is gathered here: space to spread a blanket, water to cool off, and shade under the trees during the hot hours. Free and public, it is the largest area for swimming with free access on the Vaud Riviera. A simple and generous place, where you set down your belongings in the morning and leave in the evening a bit sandy, but happy.

What your children will discover

Your children will first discover a large space to run, play in the sand, and enter the gently sloping water of Lake Geneva along the shore. The beach mixes several atmospheres: sand for building and splashing, pebbles and rocks to explore, and grass for picnicking or playing ball. Older kids will enjoy the beach volleyball courts, ping-pong tables, and the outdoor fitness area. It's a great first approach to the lake for little adventurers, with the silhouette of the mountains in the background.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

A typical day at Pierrier resembles a big picnic by the water: you set up camp on the grass or sand, alternating between swimming, games, and breaks in the shade. Families mingle in a relaxed and summery atmosphere, among bathers, beach volleyball players, and sunbathers. The summer refreshment stand provides a cold drink or ice cream, and barbecues are allowed on the shore for those who want to extend their stay. It's friendly, lively on sunny days, and always with that unobstructed view of Lake Geneva and the Alps that adds to the charm of the Riviera.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 2 years old, and all ages in family (supervision of children is essential, see below).
• Duration: half a day to a full day.
• Price: free, public beach with free access.
• Reservation: none, free access.
• Accessibility for strollers / PRM: facilities for people with reduced mobility are provided; access is level from the edge of the lake.
• Transport: on foot from the Clarens-Centre bus stop or from the CGN landing stage; parking nearby.
• What to bring: swimsuits, sunscreen, hats, water, and something to picnic or grill.
• Ideal season: summer, in good weather, when the refreshment stand and facilities are in service.

Parent tips

• The beach is unsupervised: always keep children within sight in and around the water.
• Arrive early on nice weekend days to find space on the grass and in the shade.
• Bring water shoes: between the sand, pebbles, and rocks, they prevent little foot injuries.
• Set up under the trees during the hottest hours and remember to reapply sunscreen regularly.
• For the refreshment stand hours and seasonal opening, check in advance with the municipality of Montreux.

Useful information

• Address: Grand-Rue 73, 1820 Montreux (Clarens).
• Official website: municipality of Montreux (pools and beaches section) — check for up-to-date practical information.
• Hours: free access; refreshment stand hours and seasonal opening period to be confirmed with the municipality.
• Access: Clarens-Centre bus stop, CGN landing stage, PRM facilities, parking nearby.

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

Why we recommend it

Because it is one of the few large free beaches on the Vaud Riviera, with everything needed for a successful family day: sand, grass, water, and a magnificent view of Lake Geneva and the Alps. We love its simplicity, generous nature, and easy access by public transport from Montreux.

In two words

The Plage du Pierrier, in Clarens, is the large public and free beach of Montreux: sand, grass, and swimming in Lake Geneva, ideal for a family day by the water.