Geneva has outdoor activities and adventures to suit every kind of traveller. Surrounded by nature, parks and lakes – and with the stunning Swiss Alps as its backdrop – the city is an adventurer’s playground and offers many active things to do including walking, hiking, biking and water sports.

Walking and hiking

For those looking to explore the vast countryside, Geneva’s walking and hiking trails are ideal. Making their way along the River Rhône on the Sentier du Rhône hike, walkers can take in stunning natural beauty of the contrasting lake and mountains, while marvelling at sights such as the Moulin-de-Vert nature reserve along the way.

Take a stroll through one of the city’s many parks, and pay a visit to the Parc de la Perle du Lac, the Parc Mon Repos, or take a moment to admire the stunning views of the lake and the Jet d’Eau with a walk through the Parc de l’Observatoire. Visitors can also experience the spectacular countryside villages between the Arve River and Lake Geneva.

Cycling and bike tours

Biking enthusiasts will find plenty of cycling routes to explore Geneva on two wheels, whether looking for leisurely routes along the Rhône or a challenging cycle, all trails provide stunning views of the Swiss countryside and beyond. For quiet paths, the Rhone Route runs through the mountain scenery of Valais, passing through the iconic palm-lined promenades of Lac Léman and the picturesque Lavaux vineyards, whereas the Tour du Léman takes cyclists through the village of Hermance and into Cologny. Geneva’s wine-growing countryside and incredible lake provide a vast playground for bike tours, with plenty of stunning views along the way that will be sure to distract from the physical exertion.

For the more experienced cyclists, travellers can challenge themselves along the beautiful South Jura Route, where they will ride through romantic old towns and vineyards, and pass by the lakeside bathing beaches.

Water sports 

The sprawling Lac Leman and its rivers provide the perfect canvas for an array of water sports that are perfect for both seasoned thrill-seekers and complete novices alike. Windsurfing at Geneva’s Tropical Corner is the perfect summer activity for the more daring traveller, while wakeboarding promises an adrenaline-filled adventure. Meanwhile, those hoping to advance their water-based abilities at a slower pace can learn to paddleboard across the glass-like surface of the lake.

The rivers Arve and Rhone offer plenty of activities between their banks, allowing travellers to discover the countryside while drifting along with the currents. For those who prefer a high-energy activity, rafting provides an opportunity to shoot through waterfalls and rapids at breakneck speed, while travellers looking for a more relaxed afternoon can opt for kayaking, and paddle their worries away.

Swimming and boating 

A visit to the iconic Lac Leman doubles as a leisurely swimming spot where travellers can take a dip with the famous Jet d’Eau in the background, or simply stretch and lap up the sun on the man-made beach. Families with little children can enjoy the dedicated areas at Genève Plage, with slides and small pools to keep the kids entertained all summer long, while parents can utilise the direct access to the lake. For a relaxing afternoon or evening out in the bay, motorboats are available to hire, or alternatively visitors can opt for private dining experiences in a homeboat.

Paragliding and ballooning 

For travellers who would prefer to discover Geneva from the sky, paragliding provides a picturesque birds-eye view of the city. For an adrenaline filled adventure, paragliding tours take off daily from the Salève mountain, allowing daring tourists to take the leap from France into Switzerland. Perfect for thrill seekers looking to experience the city in a completely unforgettable way while taking in the breathtaking views of the city and the glittering waters of Lac Leman.

Travellers can also take to the skies in the comfort of a hot air balloon, and embark on a peaceful flight across the enchanting landscapes of the Lake Geneva region, while slowly carried by the winds.

Image: Geneva Tourism