Swimming Area of Quai de Cologny

A free swim by Lake Geneva

On the left bank of the Geneva harbor, between Geneva-Plage and the Cologny district, the canton has developed a new swimming area that is entirely public and free. You can enjoy Lake Geneva without a gate or ticket, simply with your towel and swimsuit. The large circular dock, placed on the water, seems suspended above the lake and offers an unobstructed view of the city, the harbor, and the Jura mountains. It's an ideal spot to introduce children to swimming in open water in a well-maintained setting.

What your children will discover

Here, there are no chlorinated pools or slides, but the real pleasure of the lake. Children enter the water via stone slabs at two levels, gentler on the feet than the usual rocky shores. They can observe the nearby reed bed, planted with thousands of reeds to welcome birds and small creatures, and spot ducks and coots right next to the swimming area. The circular dock and wooden walkway give the impression of walking on water: a natural playground for the most curious.

What to do there and the atmosphere on site

The atmosphere is intentionally calm and natural. People come to swim, sunbathe on the slabs, picnic on a towel, and watch the boats pass by. The reed bed somewhat isolates the site from the noise of the city, making it a relaxing place for families. Swimming is not supervised: parents keep an eye on their children, especially the younger ones, as it quickly becomes deep water. A refreshment stand is located nearby at Tropical Corner for ice cream or drinks.

Before you go

• Recommended age: from 3 years old accompanied, but the place is especially suitable for children comfortable in the water; close supervision is essential.
• Duration: a half-day is ideal, enough time to swim and picnic.
• Reservation: none, free and open access.
• Stroller accessibility: the quay and slabs are relatively flat, but entry into the water is via stone steps; caution is advised with a stroller near the edge.
• Transport: TPG line 29 known as the "beach line" along the lake, or lines serving Geneva-Plage; limited parking nearby, prefer public transport in summer.
• To bring: towel, sunscreen, water shoes, hat, and drinking water (no shower or changing room on site).
• Ideal season: from late spring to early autumn, when the lake water is most pleasant.

Parents' tips

• Come early in the day during hot weather: shade is limited, think about a parasol and sunscreen.
• Water shoes prevent small injuries on the slabs and make entering the lake easier.
• Keep a close watch on children who cannot swim yet: swimming is not supervised and the water quickly becomes deep.
• Respect the site's regulations: no barbecues, no amplified music, no dogs in the swimming area.
• Bring your picnic and take your waste with you to preserve this beautiful natural space.

Useful information

• Address: Quai de Cologny, left bank of the harbor, 1223 Cologny (canton of Geneva). Municipality of Cologny, Route de La-Capite 24, 1223 Cologny.
• Official site: see the page of the municipality of Cologny (section Pontons du quai de Cologny) and the canton of Geneva's portal on swimming in open water.
• Hours: free access; for current conditions and detailed regulations, consult the official site.
• Access: TPG line 29 "beach line" along the lake and lines serving Geneva-Plage; limited parking on site.

Why we recommend it

Because it is rare to find such a well-maintained, free, and easily accessible access to the lake via public transport. The setting, between the reed bed and the view of the harbor, is a change from traditional pools and gives children a real connection with nature. It's a lovely summer outing, simple and budget-friendly, just a stone's throw from the center of Geneva.

In a nutshell

A public and free swimming area on Lake Geneva, in Cologny, with a circular dock and a view of the harbor. Perfect for an outdoor swim with family on nice days, as long as you keep a close eye on the children.